Microsoft also looks to China

With an eye on software development and offering outsourced services, Microsoft is establishing a joint venture in China.

The giant and Shanghai Alliance Investment will each own half of Shanghai Wicresoft, in which Microsoft will initially invest $4m. The venture will open its doors in July and hire over 100 staff this year, concentrating on providing technical support for users of Windows and Office.

Microsoft is following rivals such as BEA Systems and Oracle who have also set up shop in China, though Microsoft can already count another foray in January this year - establishing Zhongguancun Software in cahoots with Beijing Centergate Technologies and Stone Group.

Other stories about companies in China:
Oracle adds to outsourcing offering
http://www.silicon.com/a52405
eBay invests in China through EachNet
http://www.silicon.com/a52287
Peoplesoft heads for China
http://www.silicon.com/a52241
China vets the net
http://www.silicon.com/a50586