AusLeisure

Organisers of this November's Asian Games in Guangzhou have raised more than $500 million (US$443 million, 3 billion yuan) in sponsorship, offsetting almost a third of the 10 billion yuan core costs of hosting the event.

Although dwarfed by the 20.5 billion yuan made by the marketing campaign for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Guangzhou's revenue from its 46 corporate partners represents a healthy return.

In a media briefing this week Fang Daer, the organising committeeâs Director of Marketing, explained âthere is expenditure on Games-related projects such as improving the infrastructure of Guangzhou city through a better transport system, and on improving air and water quality but this expenditure will help provide a better living environment for the citizens of Guangzhou. All the spending is under tight scrutiny and what it puts in place can leave a legacy for the people."

The core costs of building and renovating sporting venues are part of the huge investment in the infrastructure of the southern metropolis being undertaken ahead of the Games. Local media is estimating the final bill could come to more than $33 billion.

11th June 2008 - CHINA’S SPORT BEYOND THE OLYMPICS

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