On Track Innovations, Ltd., a developer and provider of contactless microprocessor-based smart card solutions, said that China has begun distribution of electronic ID cards that carry OTI's technology.

Xinhua News Agency reported earlier this week that, within the first half of this year, 200,000 residents of Shanghai's Jiading and Chongming districts will be issued new ID cards. After that, the new cards will be distributed throughout the city, according to Zheng Shanhe, the deputy director of the Shanghai Public Security Bureau. Zheng said that by the end of 2008, the cards will be in use nationwide.