Shenzhen will set up an international procurement service center, according to a Mr. Wang from the city's foreign trade and economic cooperation bureau.

Wang said the center would begin operating before the end of the year in Futian District, or central Shenzhen, giving no details of a specific location. The center's first phase will occupy an area of 10,000 square meters.

"But it will definitely be enlarged as time goes by," Wang said.

"What the city government wants to do is build a platform for foreign purchasers and local exporters, showcasing Shenzhen's new, good products," Wang said. "Various activities such as trade shows will be held at the center."

The center will showcase 10 categories of local products such as electronics, machinery, textiles, timepieces, building materials and food. It will change exhibits every three months.

The center will also provide space for foreign purchasers who will exhibit samples and conceptual designs of their products to local manufacturers.

The center will establish a data base that will include 100,000 products from 10,000 companies around Shenzhen. " This data base will actually be a virtual version of the center," Wang said.

Editor: James