Budget of the 2005 China Open has been cut down to US$6 million (about 48 million Chinese yuan), 40 percent as much as that of the initial edition held 12 months ago.

In purpose of holding a world-class tennis event with a frugal budget, the serving staff has been reduced to 80 member, halving that of the 2004 edition, while the volunteers serving at the China Open amounted at 300, according to the organizing committee of the ATP and WTA tournament.

Li Jinkang, vice director of the organizing committee, told Xinhua that the 6 million budget had been repeatedly demonstrated and it could firmly assure the well-balanced run of the tournament.

"Sticking to a principle of frugality, we cut some dispensable programs and establishments," said Li. "The opening ceremony was also made brief."

Last year, the initial China Open cost a stupendous budget of US$15million, including 5 million on building the venues.

(Xinhua News Agency September 12, 2005)