China's capital of Beijing reported the sales of 407,649 automobiles in 2003, a sharp increase of 56.6 percent over that in 2002.

The city's auto market registered a rise of 65.4 percent in new motor vehicle sales and 37.8 percent in second-hand sales. In particular, 196,666 cars were sold in 2003, up 62.5 percent over the previous year.

The stable increase in income and the gradual fall of car prices made the market booming, said the bureau.

Many older-car owners bought new models after the government tightened emission standard in September.

(Xinhua News Agency January 3, 2004)