Exports of motorcycles from Chongqing, southwest China, rose
sharply during the first quarter, according to newly released
customs figures.
From January to March, 195,000 motorcycles with a combined value of
US$65.73 million were exported, up 43.4 percent and 45 percent
respectively.
Meanwhile, the motorcycle export market has been expanded to 89
countries and regions, an increase of 14 over the same period of
last year.
Compared with last year, the export volume of motorcycle parts from
Chongqing also grew rapidly. For instance, exports of motorcycle
engines increased to nearly 200,000 units, with a total export
value of US$22.95 million, nearly 2.2 and 10 times more
respectively than the same period of last year.
Another noticeable development is that many new types of
motorcycles with higher technical specifications such as beach
motorcycles, water-cooled motorcycles and motorcycles with
"V"-shaped engines went on the market and gained instant popularity
in Europe and the Middle East.
However, judging from the rapidly falling prices of these new
motorcycles, analysts said Chongqing's export market was still
plagued by a fierce price war and needed to adjust further.
For example, the export price of beach motorcycles has declined
from US$2,000 per unit in 2002 to US$600, they said.
Chongqing is the production base for several large motorcycle
companies, including the well-known names of Lifan and Jialing.
(Xinhua New Agency April 27, 2003)