China is hoping to become the largest information technology (IT) market in the world in the next five years, according to an official from the Ministry of Information Industry (MII).

Guo Fuhua, deputy director of the policy regulating department under the MII, said this week that China's IT industry has the potential for rapid growth as the demand is ever increasing. "China will become the world's largest market for computer and accessories in the next five years," said Guo, noting that computers will be popular with Chinese families in that period. In 2004, China expects to turn out 48 million computers, a rise of 29% over last year. The figure is expected to reach 90 million in 2008.

Meanwhile, it is similarly hoped that the demand for electronic household appliances will soar. "The new generation of digital electronic products will enter Chinese homes in large quantities in the years ahead," said Guo.

Guo also expects a booming telecommunication industry. Statistics show that every 100 people now have 21.2 fixed phones in China, while the ownership rate of mobile phones for Chinese people is 20.9%, both lower than those of developed countries.