Intel's (INTC) export and processing center in Dalian has successfully passed relevant inspections and has already begun operating as a business entity.

Zhang Zhinan, head of Dalian Customs, says that the chip factory, which is located in the Export and Processing Zone of Dalian, offers Intel many benefits in importing and exporting goods, and as a result this helps Intel reduce operational costs.

According to the agreement signed earlier this year, Intel's Dalian factory involves a US$2.5 billion investment in the first schedule and the construction of the project will last five years. The factory is expected to produce 52000 units of 12-inch and 90 nano integrated circuit chips annually upon completion. It is estimated that the first phase of the project will provide about 1700 job opportunities.