Jane Chen / Shanghai Daily news

German technology giant Siemens is preparing for big acquisitions to accelerate its expansion in China, today's Beijing Morning Post reported.
The report cited Dr. Richard Hausmann, Siemens Ltd China's president and chief executive officer, as saying last week that the company is evaluating 15 targets for possible acquisitions.
The president didn't reveal the details of the projects, but said the company will disclose the results at an appropriate time.
"In 2006, Siemens will further expand its investment in China, add businesses and enter growing sectors," he said.
The areas that interest Siemens will range from energy to transport, gas, industry, water, medical and third-generation technology.
Siemens' global headquarters supports the China expansion strategy, according to Dr. Hausmann. 
Most of the additional investment of 10 billion yuan (US$1.2 billion) the headquarters announced last May on China businesses will be used for acquisitions and expansions here, he said.
The company plans to enroll 3,000 employees next year in China, the president added.
Siemens' performance in China is encouraging this year, with a jump of 35 percent in new orders.  It has expanded in switches, transmission systems and home appliances sectors and entered new areas such as industrial dynamos.
By the end of 2005, Siemens' long-term investment in China has exceeded 10.6 billion yuan, with over 70 companies across the nation.