Vice Minister of Commerce, Wei Jianguo, made the comment at an event to promote the aircraft in northwest China's Xi'an city.

He says China has signed contract with Zimbabwe for two "MA60".

This is the first time China has exported its own aircraft.

The vice minister notes that the export will promote the development of China's aviation industry and relevant technology.

Earlier report suggest the price of "MA60" will be around two thirds of similar aircraft produced in other countries.

Analysts estimate 50 planes will be exported by 2007.