HK Software Industry Expects 19.6 Pct Profit Growth in 2001The total revenue of Hong Kong's independent software vendors (ISVs) is expected to reach 10.8 billion HK dollars (1.38 billion U.S. dollars) in 2001, an increase of 19.6 percent over 2000, according to a survey conducted by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC).Presenting findings of the survey Monday, W.C. Keung, vice director of HKPC, said, "ISVs perceive business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce as the most important opportunity in the coming years as enterprises begin to integrate their back-end systems and supply chain with their web sites to enhance productivity." "In addition, the integration of e-commerce and mobile communication results in the proliferation of m-commerce. The trend is likely to prevail as different forms of mobile communication will continue to flourish," he said. The survey also shows that revenue related to the provision of software and professional/support services generated from the mainland is projected to surge by 78% in 2001. Commenting on the impact of China's impending accession to the World Trade Organisation, Keung said, "with more business opportunities opening up to the software industry, many ISVs are actively developing the mainland market." At present, there are 800 ISVs in Hong Kong, as compared to 663 in 1997 when the last survey was conducted. The size of employment also expanded by 50%, from 12,000 in 1997 to 18,000 in 2000. |
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