It is absolutely certain that a Disneyland theme park will be opened in Shanghai, according to an expert involved in a feasibility study for the project. The international entertainment brand is set to be one of the new engines of the Shanghai economy.

The source said that Shanghai officials are in ongoing discussing with Walt Disney Co. on the details of the deal.

Negotiations between the two sides have been tough in the past but with the downturn of US economy, Walt Disney Co. is thought to be willing to make concessions on price, which makes an agreement much more likely.

There is no information regarding intellectual property rights or the capital ratio of two sides at present.

The source said that China's State Council is waiting for an opportunity to announce the approval of the Shanghai Disneyland project.

According to Shanghai Securities News, the Shanghai Disneyland will be located in Huanglou district, around half an hour by car from Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Experts say Shanghai transit passengers may be allowed 48-hour visa-free entry permits to boost visitor numbers.

Last week, at an economic forum held by Shanghai Municipal Government and the local Development and Reform Commission, officials said the local government was focusing on projects waiting for approval from the central government, of which the Disneyland theme park was one.

Fore more details, please read the full story in Chinese:

http://paper.cnstock.com/paper_new/html/2008-11/20/content_66041716.htm

(China.org.cn by Ma Yujia, November 20, 2008)