HONG KONG -- China Mobile Communications Corporation (China Mobile) announced on Thursday that the number of the company's subscribers increased by 25.77 million in the first half of 2006, bringing the total number to 274 million by June 30.

Wang Jianzhou, president of China Mobile, said at a press conference on Thursday that the company's net profit in the first half of 2006 reached 30.17 billion yuan (US$3.78 billion) , up 25.5 percent over last year's same period.

He said the interim dividend declared per share is 0.62 HK dollar, together with a special dividend of 0.09 HK dollar.

Looking ahead, Wang said, the company will promote development of mobile telephone in rural areas and value added service, and make preparations for the 3G market planning and operation.

He said the company will strengthen marketing and try to bring more long-term profit to its investors.

China Mobile is the No.2 stock of the Hang Seng Index of the Hong Kong stock market in terms of market capitalization.