China Mobile, the world's largest cellular-phone operator, says first-half profits are up 7.8 percent. The profit rise came from a boost in customers attracted by cheaper rates than its main competitor China Unicom.

Net income rose to US$2.3 billion, from US$.1 billion last year.

China Mobile has added 5.6 million subscribers this year, 49 percent more than a year ago, compared with China Unicom's 11 percent gain.

(CRI August 24, 2004)