China South has become the world's largest motorcycle producer with an annual production capacity of five million units, the corporation's vice general manager Li Shouwu said on Monday.

 

The motorcycles made by the corporation include brands such as Jialing, Jianshe, Dayang and Jinan Qingqi, which are sold in over 100 countries and regions.

 

The company has doubled its efforts in research and development, notably for middle and high-end models, said Li.

 

Li said the Chinese national defense industry is expected to open steadily to private capital to accelerate industry development.

 

Some fields can be completely opened to private funds, while some key sectors can still be controlled by the state, said Li without elaborating.

 

China South is a key state-owned enterprise under the management of the State Council and is involved in the military and national defense industries.

 

Its production and marketing bases have extended to 30 countries.

 

The asset value and sales revenue of the company have both exceeded 100 billion yuan (US$12.84 billion).

 

(Xinhua News Agency January 16, 2007)