China orders Airbus jets, factory agreement looms

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China placed a landmark order on Tuesday for dozens of wide-body jets from Airbus in a multi-billion-dollar deal that paves the way for a second European aircraft plant in the world's fastest-growing aviation market.

The deal, signed during a visit to France by Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang, includes a definitive purchase of 45 A330 aircraft, worth at least $11 billion at list prices, plus plans for a possible further 30 worth about $250 million each.

It was signed during a ceremony watched by business leaders and reporters at the French prime minister's office.

If the second part of the purchase is completed, the value of the contract could rise to $18 billion.

Full report: http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/06/30/us-airbus-china-idUSKCN0PA2AA20150630