Taipei - Taiwan's top bookstore chain, Eslite Bookstore, said Monday it was considering expansion of its operation by opening branches in Hong Kong and China.

"We will in the next year or two actively evaluate the markets in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing to prepare for our expansion in the Greater China area," said Wu Ching-yu, chairman of the Eslite group, in a news conference in Taipei.

He said the group's expansion in the region, especially China, is a must if Eslite is to connect to the world.

Eslite, which has 45 outlets, including bookstores and brand-name product shops, is Taiwan's biggest bookstore chain. Its 24-hour outlet in eastern Taipei has even become a tourist attraction for foreigners, especially those from Hong Kong. (dpa)