Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown MP, today launched the English Premier League’s official Chinese language websites whilst on a visit to promote links between Britain and China in Shanghai.

For the first time fans throughout China will be able to get the latest news, match reports, club and player profiles from the Premier League official site in their own language.

There are two Chinese versions of premierleague.com, one in simplified Chinese (http://cn.premierleague.com) and one in traditional Chinese (http://hk.premierleague.com), in order to satisfy the huge demand for information about English football right across the region.

Speaking in Shanghai, the Chancellor said: “Football in the UK is a passion for fans right around the world and, as I have seen today, especially here in China. This new web-site will help to build more enthusiasm for the game in China, inspire youngsters here to play the game and dream of visiting the UK to see their team in action.”

Richard Scudamore, Chief Executive of the FA Premier League, added: “The English Premier League is tremendously popular throughout the Far East and none more so than in China. Whenever I travel to the region I am surprised by the depth of knowledge so many of our fans out here display.

“With the Chinese language websites we will be able to provide supporters with official news, reports and profiles in their own language about all 20 Clubs, which will help develop interest in the competition and complement our extensive broadcasting coverage.”

For more information please contact Dan Johnson in the Premier League Press Office on 020 7298 1690 or go to www.premierleague.com