The first batch of 500 laptops designed by Chinese company Amoi has come off the assembly line, according to China Radio International Sunday.

Officials from the Information Industry Ministry say the V3 laptop, which is completely designed by Chinese researchers, marks a breakthrough in China's computer industry.

Amoi invested 10 million yuan or about US$1.2 million, in the research and development of the computer.

In recent years, the market for laptops in China has grown by 40 to 50 percent each year.

(CRI August 30, 2004)