Start-up Hong Kong First Telecom has launched a Web-based service which allows PC users to make free voice and fax calls to the mainland and Hong Kong.
The service is provided by an alliance between an arm of the mainland's State Information Centre (SIC), Guangzhou Business Administration Bureau and the United States Internet advertising firm Doubleclick.
The service is aimed at easing the way for foreign businesses to make contacts in the mainland, similar to a toll-free phone service.
To cement the alliance, SIC Telecom will buy a 6 per cent stake in First Telecom and help the Hong Kong-based start-up develop an Internet telephone network and business-to-business e-commerce opportunities in the mainland.
Doubleclick will be responsible for finding advertisements for the site.