The US hotelier, which opened its 21st Sheraton hotel in Shanghai's Pudong New Area yesterday, will add eight more hotels in the country this year.

"We hope to bring all our nine brands to the China market and increase total portfolio to 100 by 2010," said Qian Jin, senior vice president for Starwood's China operation. "The new hotels will be located in both first- and second-tier cities."

Starwood now operates 34 hotels and has another 37 facilities under construction nationwide under six brands including St Regis, Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, Le Meridien and Aloft.

Around the globe, the hotel giant also operates facilities under The Luxury Collection, W and Element.

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