Sichuan-based TV maker Changhong announced on April 22 that the company has officially begun the mass production of its PDP TV (Plasma Display Panel Television), mainly focusing on 42- and 50-inch models, the Sina News reported on April 23. Also, Changhong stated that it has reached a deal with Chinese electronics retailers Gome and Suning for Changhong PDP TVs, with an initial shipment value reaching around 2.0 billion RMB (US$292.8 million; US$1 = 6.83 RMB).

Two years ago, the company invested US$675 million into the first phase of construction for China's first PDP TV assembly line. Following the completion of its first-phase expansion plan and the upcoming second-phase construction plan, Changhong is expected to churn out an annual capacity of six million 42-inch PDP TVs by 2011, according to the same source. Meanwhile, in related news, it is said that Korean LG, which reportedly plans to quit PDP TV production some time in 2009, will sell the related equipment and technologies to Changhong. LG and Changhong, however, were not immediately available for comment.