WTO move could prove 'green light' for traffic signals company

CHINA'S pending application to join the World Trade Organisation could prove a boon for infrastructure plays, as the mainland spends billions to upgrade its services to world standards.

That is good news for companies such as Hong Kong- based Teletech Communications, which believes Beijing will likely fast-track roadway and highway works.

Despite its hi-tech name, Teletech Communications makes most of its money in the bricks and mortar economy, selling Dutch-made traffic control equipment and lighting systems and providing engineering services.

'We are the major engineering company to supply the traffic signals to the Hong Kong Government,' K. K. Yee, managing director of Teletech Communications, said.

Teletech has been the term contractor for the Hong Kong Government for traffic signal equipment since 1994, providing traffic lights, variable message signs, fibre optic signals and ancillary equipment such as X- ray cameras, red light cameras and audible signals.

The privately-held company, established in 1986, recorded sales of $80 million last year, with an estimated 25 per cent of revenue arising from traffic equipment sales.

Mr Yee anticipates strong growth in the mainland for both traffic equipment and engineering services to speed the movement of cars and trucks.