A large and state-of-the-art chip maker has started trial operation recently in Shanghai, east China.

　　The multi-billion U.S. dollar chip plant, officially known as Zhongxin International Integrated Circuit Manufacturing Co., is located in booming Pudong District in eastern Shanghai.

　　The first phase project of the company involves an investment of 1.5 billion U.S. dollars, and mass production will begin in thefirst quarter of next year.

　　During its earlier operation, the company will produce chips for digital TV sets, video/digital compact players and mobile phone sets and intelligence cards.

　　Zhang Lujing, president of the company, said next year's chip orders from outside China, including the United States and Japan, have been close to the company's production capacity.

　　During its trial production, the company has manufactured somechips smaller than 0.25 microns in diameter.