Microsoft has invested in Dalian Hi-Think Computer Technology Co Ltd (DHC) based in Northeast China's Liaoning Province, adding impetus to its development.

Microsoft, together with other firms, invested US$15.5 million in DHC. However, no details as to the amount of Microsoft's investment, or the shareholding in this local large software enterprise, were revealed.

At the celebration ceremony held yesterday, Tim Chen, CEO of Microsoft China, said they are committed to helping the development of the Chinese software industry for a win-win result.

This is a further move after Microsoft signed a memo with the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) in 2002 to support the Chinese software industry's development. Microsoft also set up strategic cooperation relations with Shandong Langchao Cheeloosoft Ltd in August and with ChinaSoft International Limited in September.

DHC General Manger Liu Jun said the investment would be injected into business expansion, personnel training, and research and development projects.

He added that besides maximizing capital, also important is to combine its business advantage, client resources and talent training abilities with Microsoft's advanced technology, standard management and well-known brand name.

Additionally resources would be devoted to the firm's future Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) to Japan, Europe and the United States, domestic business and business training.

"It has not been easy for us to obtain the investment; management achievements, human resources and future potential were all considered," said Liu.

Established in 1996, DHC was one of the first domestic software firms to enter the Japanese market. With registered capital of US$17.88 million and 1,800 personnel, it has become China's largest software exporting firm.

Its BPO revenues amounted to US$31 million last year and they are expected to reach US$40 million this year.

(China Daily October 11, 2005)