100 million go online in China

The number of internet users in China has risen above 100 million for the first time, according to reports in the country's state media.

Only the US now has more web surfers as young and old Chinese take to the internet in record numbers.

The figure is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years.

China's economic boom is behind the dramatic rise as increasing personal wealth means more people are able to buy computers and go online.

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World broadband numbers in Q1 2005

ZDNet, June 25, 2005 World broadband lines reached 164 million in Q1 2005, up 52 million lines since Q1 2004. The United Status leads, with 36.5 milion lines. China remains in second place with 28.3 million, followed by Japan, South Korea, France, and Germany.