Document:

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                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.23

                          SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

CONTRACT NO.:  EGRID20030301

PROJECT NAME:  ITOWNET PLATFORM TENDERING AND OPTIMIZATION PROJECT

PARTY A:       BEIJING REGARD TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

PARTY B:       BEIJING NINETOWNS PORTS SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

SIGNING LOCATION:     BEIJING MUNICIPALITY

SIGNING DATE:         AUGUST 1, 2003

                                       1
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                                TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<S>                                                                              <C>
Section 1      Definitions.....................................................   3

Section 2      Project Contents and Requirements...............................   4

Section 3      Contents of Construction Project................................   5

Section 4      System Design Proposal..........................................   5

Section 5      Training........................................................   6

Section 6      Documentation...................................................   6

Section 7      System Acceptance Inspection....................................   6

Section 8      Contract Amount and Payment Method..............................   7

Section 9      Quality Assurance...............................................   9

Section 10     Service and Maintenance.........................................   9

Section 11     Construction Period and Construction Project Progress...........  10

Section 12     Force Majeure...................................................  10

Section 13     Breach of Contract..............................................  11

Section 14     Confidentiality.................................................  11

Section 15     Patents and Intellectual Property Rights........................  12

Section 16     Software Copyrights and Licenses................................  12

Section 17     Dispute Resolution Method.......................................  13

Section 18     Contract Modification...........................................  13

Section 19     Contract Validity, Cancellation and Termination.................  14

Section 20     Miscellaneous...................................................  14

Section 21     Signing.........................................................  16
</TABLE>

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                              SECTION 1 DEFINITIONS

      Beijing Regard Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Regard")
hereby authorizes Beijing Ninetowns Ports Software and Technology Co., Ltd.
(hereinafter referred to as "Ninetowns") to undertake the technology development
and implementation for the "iTowNet Platform Tendering and Optimization
Project." Based on Party A's requirements, Party B will be responsible for the
system proposal design, system installation, system tests, and technical
support, and it will provide Party A with the related services that are agreed
upon in this contract. In accordance with the relevant provisions of the
"Contract Law of the People's Republic of China" and applicable regulations, and
in order to specify the rights, obligations, and economic responsibilities of
both parties, both parties have agreed through consultation to sign this
contract. The contract terms are specified below:

The terms listed below should have the following meanings in this contract:

1.1   "Party A" refers to "Beijing Regard Technology Co., Ltd.," the client
      requesting the technical development of the "iTowNet Platform Tendering
      and Optimization Project."

1.2   "Party B" refers to "Beijing Ninetowns Ports Software and Technology Co.,
      Ltd.," the development firm for this "iTowNet Platform Tendering and
      Optimization Project."

1.3   "One contracting party" refers to either Party A or Party B.

1.4   "Both contracting parties" refers to Party A and Party B.

1.5   "The contract" refers to this contract, and to all of its inseparable
      attachments that make up the contract.

1.6   "The system" refers to the set of applications consisting of the design
      proposal, design software, and related hardware and software equipment to
      be provided in accordance with the requirements contents that are set
      forth in the "Requirements Report" on the "iTowNet Platform Tendering and
      Optimization Project."

1.7   "Third party software" refers to software outsourced from third party such
      as operating systems and databases that are attached to the hardware
      equipment or that are essential to the proper operation of the whole
      system.

1.8   "Application software" refers to application programs that are the
      development responsibility of Party B and that will ultimately be turned
      over to Party A to meet Party A's requirements.

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

1.9   "Technical documentation" refers to all technical parameters, drawings,
      designs, manuals, and other proprietary information that are specified in
      the contract and to related documents on the calculation, operation,
      maintenance, and testing of the system.

1.10  "Technical services" refers to services that are provided in accordance
      with the contractual provisions, such as system design, installation
      supervision, installation, testing, debugging, inspection, system
      operation, maintenance, support, and others.

1.11  "Software upgrades" refer to program modifications and corrections that
      are performed by Party B, including code changes and alterations of
      end-user documentation that do not materially change program indices or
      involve version upgrades.

1.12  "Version upgrades" refer to major improvements of application programs
      which are certified by Party B to be new versions. Such improvements
      expand, alter, and enhance programs by increasing functions and
      performance while retaining the design purposes of the original programs.

1.13  "The construction site" refers to the system's specific installation and
      debugging location as designated by Party A.

1.14  "Training" refers to the installation, debugging, startup, and operating
      maintenance principles and the actual operation of the system that are
      taught to Party A by Party B, as well as to other related knowledge.

1.15  "The final test" refers to the last test before the system goes into
      regular operation. The test contents include all of the system's hardware,
      the operating stability of the third party software, the application
      software and the operating stability of the specially developed software.
      They also include completeness of documentation and training progress.
      After the system passes the final test, it goes into regular operation.

                   SECTION 2 PROJECT CONTENTS AND REQUIREMENTS

2.1   Party A intends to invest in building three new iTowNet information
      platform switching systems, and upgrading the original iTowNet platform
      system.

2.2   Based on Party A's requirements, Party B will perform such work as writing
      the requirements analysis report, design the system proposal, installation
      of the testing system, and providing technical support.

2.3   Party B will provide three licenses for the Ninetowns Ports Information
      Exchange System, and upgrade the original iTowNet platform.

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

2.4     For the detailed requirements, see the "Requirements Analysis Report".

                   SECTION 3 CONTENTS OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

3.1   The construction project contents that are referred to in this contract
      should include but are not limited to the ones listed below:

      -     System design proposal

      -     Hardware equipment test installation, debugging, and acceptance
            inspection

      -     Ninetowns Ports Information Exchange System installation, debugging,
            and acceptance inspection

      -     System testing and acceptance inspection

      -     Training of Party A's staff

      -     Provision of technical documentation

      -     Service and maintenance

                        SECTION 4 SYSTEM DESIGN PROPOSAL

4.1   Party B promises to draw up a design proposal that meets the project
      development requirements based on Party A's needs. After obtaining Party
      A's consent, this design proposal will be regarded as the basis for the
      development of the said project.

4.2   After the project design proposal is approved by Party A, Party B is not
      entitled to unilaterally revise this proposal. If this proposal needs to
      be revised upon Party B's initiative, Party A's consent must be obtained.
      Moreover, the new design proposal will be valid only after the revised
      design proposal is presented to Party A.

4.3   If this proposal needs to be revised upon Party A's initiative, Party A
      should notify Party B in writing, and Party B should draw up a new design
      proposal as soon as possible based on Party A's needs and submit it for
      Party A's consent. If Party B devotes more than eight hours of staff work
      because the revision scope is too large, both parties should determine
      through consultation the additional costs that Party A is required to pay.

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                               SECTION 5 TRAINING

5.1   Party B promises to draw up a training program based on the project
      requirements (for details, see the "Training Program"). After obtaining
      Party A's consent, such trading program will be regarded as the basis for
      the training.

5.2   Party B promises to provide technical training to Party A's technicians,
      and the time schedule for training will be jointly agreed upon by both
      parties.

                            SECTION 6 DOCUMENTATION

6.1   Party B promises to provide all related documentation (for details, see
      the "Provided Documentation List") during the system development process
      until the acceptance inspection work is completed and pass the acceptance
      inspection.

6.2   Party B promises to cooperate with Party A at the time of system
      modifications or updates and upgrades, and to promptly provide updated or
      corresponding documentation.

                     SECTION 7 SYSTEM ACCEPTANCE INSPECTION

7.1   Acceptance Inspection Criteria

      7.1.1 Party B promises to be responsible for drawing up the technical
            specifications, criteria, and progress plans for the final test of
            the system. In order to ensure that the said project is completed in
            accordance with the predetermined schedule and quality, Party A is
            entitled to conduct regular phased inspections and acceptance
            inspections of the project, and the acceptance inspection criteria
            will be in the "Requirements Analysis Report" that is jointly signed
            by both parties. In the inspection process, if Party A discovers
            inappropriate issues in the original requirements, after obtaining
            the consent of Party B, it may suitably revise the requirements; if
            the revision of the requirements is too large and increases Party
            B's development difficulties, Party B is entitled to claim for
            increased expenses.

      7.1.2 Party B consents to the organization by Party A of the relevant team
            of experts to conduct the final test of the system, and it promises
            to send a representative to cooperate with Party A in the completion
            of the project acceptance inspection work. For the system's final
            test criteria, see the "System Acceptance Inspection Proposal".

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

      7.1.3 Party A agrees to sign the initial test and final test reports with
            Party B after the work is completed and the system has passed the
            final test.

7.2   The Final Test of the System

      7.2.1 If, after the installation and debugging of the application software
            is completed and the system enters the test operation stage, the
            system operates smoothly for 15 consecutive days, the application
            software programs are stable, the documentation is complete, and
            appropriate progress has been made in training, then the system is
            ready for the final test. After the end of its test operation stage,
            the system can undergo its final test, and Party B will present a
            written final test request.

      7.2.2 Party A must organize the final test of the system within one week
            after receipt of Party B's final test request.

      7.2.3 Before the final test, Party B should provide all of the
            construction project documentation and the installation test report,
            and it should also provide the final test documentation. The final
            test may proceed after Party A's consent is obtained.

      7.2.4 The final test of the system should be carried out with the
            participation of Party A's technicians and in accordance with the
            provisions of the "System Final Test Report", and Party B's
            technicians will conduct the specific test work. The test results
            should be recorded in detail, and the participating staff of both
            parties should sign and certify each item. The entire test results
            must be signed by the representatives of both parties.

      7.2.5 After the system passes the final test, the System Final Test Report
            should be signed by the representatives of both parties within two
            days after the completion of the test.

7.3   The System's Official Operations Warranty Period

      7.3.1 Starting on the day that the final test is passed, the system
            automatically enters the official operations warranty period, which
            lasts for one year.

      7.3.2 During the warranty operations period, if upon Party A's request,
            Party B's technicians should provide full onsite technical support.

                  SECTION 8 CONTRACT AMOUNT AND PAYMENT METHOD

8.1   Contract Amount

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT HAS BEEN REQUESTED AND CONFIDENTIAL TERMS HAVE BEEN
OMITTED

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                    Quantity                                Unit: RMB
          Project                    (Set)            Unit Price              Amount
          -------                    -----            ----------              ------
<S>                                 <C>             <C>                   <C>
Ninetowns Ports Information            3            RMB2,200,000.00       RMB6,600,000.00
Exchange System
Ninetowns Ports Information            1            RMB900,000.00         RMB900,000.00
Exchange System (Upgraded Version)

Total                                                                     RMB7,500,000.00
</TABLE>

Total contract price:
      RMB in words: seven million five hundred thousand;
               in figures: [RMB]7,500,000.00

8.2   Payment Method

      8.2.1 Within one week after the contract takes effect, Party A will pay to
            Party B 30 percent of the total contract amount:

            RMB in words: two million two hundred fifty thousand;
               in figures: [RMB]2,250,000.00

      8.2.2 Within one week after the system passes the final test, Party A will
            pay to Party B 60 percent of the total contract amount:

            RMB in words: four million five hundred thousand;
                   in figures: [RMB]4,500,000.00

      8.2.3 If the system passes the final test, operates smoothly for three
            months, and experiences no major quality problems or technical
            problems during the three months, then Party A will pay the
            remaining balance to Party B, or 10 percent of the total contract
            amount.

            RMB in words: seven hundred fifty thousand;
                   in figures  [RMB]750,000.00

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                           SECTION 9 QUALITY ASSURANCE

9.1   Party B is responsible for providing Party A with technical training and
      technical advisory services in order to ensure that the system can operate
      in accordance with the stipulated criteria under the conditions of correct
      configuration, a good environment, and proper maintenance.

9.2   In the course of the project, Party A should provide Party B with the
      necessary operations advice and coordinate with Party A's relevant
      departments so that they provide necessary support to Party B. When
      necessary, Party A should convene the relevant departments to hold an
      operation coordination conference, in order to ensure Party B's
      development progress and development quality.

                       SECTION 10 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

10.1  Party B promises to draw up a service and maintenance program before the
      signing of the contract. After it is approved by Party A, it will be
      regarded as the basis for the services and maintenance work.

10.2  During the project implementation process and after the system goes into
      operation, Party B promises to provide Party A with the relevant services
      and maintenance in accordance with the service and maintenance program.

10.3  After the service and maintenance program is approved by Party A and
      certified by both parties, neither party is entitled to revise it
      unilaterally (if the maintenance contents need to be revised due to
      technical needs, both parties should consult each other and approve the
      revisions before the maintenance contents may be revised).

10.4  If the service and maintenance work contents need to be revised due to
      Party A's operational needs, Party A should notify Party B in writing.
      Party B should consult with Party A immediately, draw up a new service and
      maintenance program, and submit it for approval to Party A.

10.5  In order to ensure that the said system operates smoothly and safely after
      the project development is complete, Party B promises to provide three
      years of maintenance service for the project. The response time for a
      software maintenance problem is 12 hours, and the response time for a
      database maintenance problem is two hours.

10.6  Party B will provide one year of maintenance service for the project
      covered by this contract free of charge, and the maintenance period starts
      after the acceptance inspection of the system; it provides three years of
      preferential technical

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      upgrading serving for the provided software products; and it provides free
      capacity expansion and upgrading upon Party A's request.

10.7  After the warranty period, Party B promises to continue to provide Party A
      with technical support, and Party A is responsible for paying Party B for
      the costs and expenses that are actually incurred.

        SECTION 11 CONSTRUCTION PERIOD AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECT PROGRESS

11.1  The construction period of this project is from the construction start
      date until the representatives of both parties sign the final test report,
      which is projected to be 60 days.

11.2  The construction start date of this project is the date on which Party A
      makes the advance payment to Party B after the contract takes effect.

                            SECTION 12 FORCE MAJEURE

12.1  Force majeure refers to events such as wars, fires, typhoons, floods,
      earthquakes, or other events that are regarded by both parties to be force
      majeure factors. The confirmation of a force majeure event must be based
      on legally valid supporting documents that are provided by an
      authoritative body that is jointly recognized by both parties.

12.2  If either party is forced to suspend or postpone the contract performance
      due to force majeure event, the contract performance will be
      correspondingly delayed, and the postponement period will equal to the
      time when the force majeure is in effect.

12.3  The affected party should notify the other party in writing of the
      occurrence of a force majeure event as soon as possible.

12.4  After a force majeure event ends or is eliminated, the affected party
      should notify the other party in writing as soon as possible that the
      force majeure event is ended or eliminated.

12.5  If the force majeure event exceeds two months, either party should contact
      the other party to resolve the matter of the contract performance. If the
      force majeure event exceeds three consecutive months, either party is
      entitled to terminate all or part of the contract, and Party B must return
      to Party A the amount related to the non-performance of the contract.

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                          SECTION 13 BREACH OF CONTRACT

13.1  If, because of Party B, the system cannot be turned over on schedule as
      provided in the contract, Party B will be responsible for paying a fine.
      Starting on the scheduled date of delivery of the system, Party B will pay
      a fine of 0.5 percent of the contract price of the delayed goods for every
      week of late delivery. Less than one week will be counted as one week, but
      the total fine may not exceed 20 percent of the value of the system that
      is delivered late.

13.2  If, because of Party A, there is an overdue payment, Party A should pay a
      breach penalty to Party B. After two weeks past the deadline provided in
      the payment terms of this contract, Party A should pay a late penalty of
      0.5 percent of the overdue amount for every week of late payment. Less
      than one week is counted as one week, but the total penalty may not exceed
      20 percent of the amount of the late payment.

13.3  After the signing of this contract, if the contract performance is
      terminated because of Party B, Party B will pay Party A a breach penalty
      of 5 percent of the contract amount.

13.4  After the signing of the contract, if the contract performance is
      terminated because of Party A, Party A will pay Party B a breach penalty
      of 5 percent of the contract amount.

13.5  Excluding force majeure events, if the construction period is delayed due
      to what both parties jointly hold to be Party A's fault (such as the
      failure to promptly provide the test environment), Party B assumes no
      liability.

13.6  Excluding force majeure events, if, due to what both parties jointly hold
      to be Party A's fault, a system malfunction occurs and causes a production
      loss, Party B assumes no liability.

                           SECTION 14 CONFIDENTIALITY

14.1  Both parties have unanimously agreed through consultation that, while the
      contract is in effect and after the contract is terminated, either party
      will keep in strict confidentiality the secret information about affairs,
      business, or operating methods that it holds pertaining to the other party
      and the technical documentation that is provided by Party B. Both parties
      will sign a confidentiality agreement. Except with the authorization of
      the other party or due to the need for related parties to conduct
      operations, neither party may disclose any confidential information at any
      time to any person. Both parties further agree not to turn over any
      confidential information to any person, unless with the written consent of
      the

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      other party or due to a reasonable need of one party to fulfill its
      obligations. Both parties agree not to copy or transcribe confidential
      information.

14.2  This clause does not apply to the contents listed below:

      (1)   Contents that are, when provided, already in the public domain or in
            the category of common knowledge;

      (2)   Contents that are in the public domain through publications or other
            reasons (excluding unauthorized actions or negligence), and that
            have become common knowledge;

      (3)   Contents provided by any third party without restrictions, for which
            contents the said third party has no express or implicit
            confidentiality obligations;

      (4)   Contents that are required by law to be disclosed to any institution
            or organization.

14.3  The software that is provided by Party B is not involved in any copyright
      disputes. If the use of software that is provided by Party B results in a
      copyright dispute, Party B will assume responsibility for all
      consequential losses to Party A.

               SECTION 15 PATENTS AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

15.1  Both contracting parties should protect patents that appear in the
      contract.

15.2  Party B guarantees that neither the equipment nor any part of it that
      Party A uses in the contract is subject to claims or legal proceedings
      filed by a third party concerning infringements of its patents,
      trademarks, industrial designs, or other protected rights.

15.3  Party B holds the entire intellectual property rights to software products
      that are provided to Party A, and revisions of Party B's software that are
      made by Party B for Party A's current work requirements are applicable
      only in this project.

                   SECTION 16 SOFTWARE COPYRIGHTS AND LICENSES

16.1  Copyrights

      In this project, Party A purchases the use rights to Party B's software
      products. Party A should use this system within the license provisions.

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SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

16.2  Proprietary technology that is involved in the software is owned by Party
      B. The ownership or naming rights to the software are not transferred to
      Party A.

16.3  Scope of Permission

      Proprietary technology that is involved in the software is protected by
      copyright laws and international treaties. Party A may not reverse
      engineer, back translate, or decompile this part of the software, except
      where the law provides that Party B may not prohibit such actions.

      Electronic documentation. Unless otherwise provided, Party A may, in the
      reasonable exercise of its rights to use this software, print out the
      electronic software documentation that is attached to the software.

                      SECTION 17 DISPUTE RESOLUTION METHOD

If a dispute arises in the performance of this contract, both parties will
resolve it through mutual consultation. If consultation fails, both parties
consent to its arbitration by the Beijing Arbitration Commission.

                        SECTION 18 CONTRACT MODIFICATION

18.1  In the event that an authoritative body that is jointly recognized by both
      parties provides certification, and both parties jointly confirm that a
      force majeure event has occurred and has forced the suspension or
      postponement of the contract performance, the contract performance will be
      correspondingly delayed, and the postponement time will equal the time
      when the force majeure is in effect. If the force majeure event exceeds
      two months, either party should contact the other party to resolve the
      matter of the contract performance. If the force majeure event exceeds
      three consecutive months, either party is entitled to terminate all or
      part of the contract, and Party B must return to Party A the amount
      related to the nonperformance of the contract.

18.2  If, excluding force majeure events, certain factors arise in the course of
      the implementation of this project that make one party hold that it is
      necessary to modify the contract, it must notify the other party in
      writing as soon as possible. After obtaining the approval of the other
      party through consultation, a new contract must be signed. Otherwise,
      neither party is entitled to modify the contract unilaterally.

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           SECTION 19 CONTRACT VALIDITY, CANCELLATION AND TERMINATION

19.1  The date on which the authorized representatives of both parties sign and
      seal this contract is the effective date of this contract.

19.2  The occurrence of any of the circumstances listed below may be cancelled
      or terminated:

      (1)   This contract is valid, and it has been completely fulfilled.

      (2)   If the force majeure event exceeds two months, either party should
            contact the other party, in order to resolve the matter of the
            contract performance. If the force majeure event exceeds three
            consecutive months, either party is entitled to terminate all or
            part of the contract, and Party B must return to Party A the amount
            related to the nonperformance of the contract.

      (3)   Excluding force majeure causes, both parties jointly agree to an
            early cancellation of the contract.

      (4)   In accordance with the decision of the arbitration agency, the
            contract is cancelled or terminated.

                            SECTION 20 MISCELLANEOUS

20.1  This contract is composed of all of its provided terms and the attachments
      referred to below:

            Attachment 1  Requirements Analysis Report

            Attachment 2  System Installation and Debugging Program

            Attachment 3  Provided Documentation List

            Attachment 4  System Acceptance Inspection Proposal

All of the attachments to this contract are inseparable parts of this contract,
and they have a legal effect equal to this contract.

20.2  The terms of this contract constitute the entire agreement and
      understanding reached by both parties on the subject matter of this
      contract, and they shall replace and supersede all previous agreements,
      understanding, related documents, and presentations.

20.3  Any revisions of or supplements to the terms of this contract must be made
      through written documents signed by the authorized representatives of both
      parties to the contract. Revisions or supplements that are jointly signed
      by both parties have a legal effect equal to this contract. If they
      conflict with the terms of

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      this contract, the revisions or supplements will prevail. This contract
      consists of four identical original copies, and each party keeps two
      copies.

20.4  Neither party may disclose the contract contents to a third party, unless
      the advance consent of the other party is obtained. However, if it is
      required to submit this contract to a government department concerned for
      approval, the consent of the other party is not required.

20.5  Matters not covered in this contract are all implemented in accordance
      with the relevant existing laws of the People's Republic of China.

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                               SECTION 21 SIGNING

<TABLE>
<S>          <C>                  <C>                                              <C>
Party A                           Beijing Regard Technology Co., Ltd.                Technology
             Title (or Name)                                          (Signature)     Contract
                                                                                    Special Seal
                                                                                         or
                                                                                   Official Seal

                                                                                      Beijing
                                                                                       Regard
                                                                                    Technology
                                                                                     Co., Ltd.
                                                                                       [Seal]

             Legal

             Representative       Tian Hongmei                        (Signature)
             Authorized Agent                                         (Signature)
             Contact Person
             (Person in Charge)   Shan Pin Fang /s/ Shan Pin Fang     (Signature)
                                  #406 No. 1 Building, 3
             Residence (Postal    No. 2 Yard, Hengfu        Zip
             Address)             Middle Street, Fengtai    Code      100070
                                  Science Park, Fengtai
                                  District, Beijing
                                  Municipality

             Telephone            010-65882661       Fax    010-65882265
             Bank of Deposit
             Account No.

Party B      Title (or Name)      Beijing Ninetowns Ports Software and               Technology
                                  Technology Co., Ltd.                (Signature)     Contract
                                                                                    Special Seal
                                                                                         or
                                                                                   Official Seal

                                                                                      Beijing
                                                                                     Ninetowns
                                                                                       Ports
                                                                                    Software and
                                                                                     Technology
                                                                                     Co., Ltd.
                                                                                       [Seal]

             Legal
             Representative                                           (Signature)
             Authorized Agent     /s/ Wu Bo Lin                       (Signature)
             Contact Person
             (Person in Charge)                                       (Signature)
                                  5th Floor, Union
             Residence (Postal    Plaza, 20 Chaowai        Zip      100020
             Address)             Street, Chaoyang         Code
                                  District, Beijing
                                  100020, The People's
                                  Republic of China
             Telephone            010-65887788     Fax     010-65882260
             Bank of Deposit
             Account No.
</TABLE>

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Affix Revenue Stamps Here
------------------------------------------

(The space below is only for use by the Technology Contract Registration Agency)

Contract Registration No.:

         | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

      1. Registration Applicant: _______________________________________________

      2. Registration Materials: (1)____________________________________________

                                 (2)____________________________________________

                                 (3)____________________________________________

      3. Contract Type:_________________________________________________________

      4. Contract Transaction Amount:___________________________________________

      5. Technology Transaction Amount:_________________________________________

                 Technology Contract Registration Agency (Seal)

                                Person in Charge:

                                      Year    Month   Day

                                       17<PAGE>

                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.24

                          SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

CONTRACT NO.:  EGRID20030201

PROJECT NAME:  INSPECTION AND QUARANTINE "GREAT CUSTOMS CLEARANCE" PROJECT

PARTY A:       BEIJING REGARD TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

PARTY B:       BEIJING NINETOWNS PORTS SOFTWARE AND TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

SIGNING LOCATION:     BEIJING MUNICIPALITY

SIGNING DATE:         AUGUST 1, 2003

                                       1
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                                TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<S>                                                                             <C>
Section 1         Definitions ...............................................    3

Section 2         Project Contents and Requirements..........................    4

Section 3         Contents of Construction Project...........................    5

Section 4         System Design Proposal.....................................    5

Section 5         Training...................................................    6

Section 6         Documentation..............................................    6

Section 7         System Acceptance Inspection ..............................    6

Section 8         Contract Amount and Payment Method ........................    8

Section 9         Quality Assurance .........................................    9

Section 10        Service and Maintenance ...................................    9

Section 11        Construction Period and Construction Project
                  Progress...................................................   10

Section 12        Force Majeure..............................................   10

Section 13        Breach of Contract.........................................   11

Section 14        Confidentiality............................................   11

Section 15        Patents and Intellectual Property Rights ..................   12

Section 16        Software Copyrights and Licenses...........................   12

Section 17        Dispute Resolution Method..................................   13

Section 18        Contract Modification .....................................   13

Section 19        Contract Validity, Cancellation and Termination ...........   14

Section 20        Miscellaneous .............................................   14

Section 21        Signing....................................................   16
</TABLE>

                                       2
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                              SECTION 1 DEFINITIONS

      Beijing Regard Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Regard")
hereby authorizes Beijing Ninetowns Ports Software and Technology Co., Ltd.
(hereinafter referred to as "Ninetowns") to undertake the technology development
and implementation for the Inspection and Quarantine "Great Customs Clearance"
(Electronic Document Review and Speedy Customs Clearance, Great Customs
Clearance Port Speedy Acceptance Inspection, and PRC Inspections Administration
Service Website) project. Based on Party A's requirements, Party B will be
responsible for the system proposal design, compilation codes, software tests,
and technical support, and it will provide Party A with the related services
that are agreed upon in this contract. In accordance with the "Contract Law of
the People's Republic of China" and applicable regulations, and in order to
specify the rights, obligations and economic responsibilities of both parties,
both parties have agreed through consultation to sign this contract. The
contract terms are specified below:

The terms listed below should have the following meanings in this contract:

1.1   "Party A" refers to " Beijing Regard Technology Co., Ltd.", the client
      requesting the technical development of the "Inspection and Quarantine
      Great Customs Clearance" system.

1.2   "Party B" refers to "Beijing Ninetowns Ports Software and Technology Co.,
      Ltd.", the development firm for this "Inspection and Quarantine Great
      Customs Clearance" system.

1.3   "One contracting party" refers to either Party A or Party B.

1.4   "Both contracting parties" refers to Party A and Party B.

1.5   "The contract" refers to this contract, and to all of its inseparable
      attachments that make up the contract.

1.6   "The system" refers to the set of applications consisting of the design
      proposal, design software, and related hardware and software equipment to
      be provided in accordance with the requirements contents that are set
      forth in the "Requirements Analysis Report" on the "Inspection and
      Quarantine Great Customs Clearance" system.

1.7   "Third party software" refers to software outsourced from third party such
      as operating systems and databases that are attached to the hardware
      equipment or that are essential to the proper operation of the whole
      system.

1.8   "Application software" refers to application programs that are the
      development responsibility of Party B and that will ultimately be turned
      over to Party A to meet Party A's requirements.

                                       3
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

1.9   "Technical documentation" refers to all technical parameters, drawings,
      designs, manuals, and other proprietary information that are specified in
      the contract and to related documents on the calculation, operation,
      maintenance, and testing of the system.

1.10  "Technical services" refers to services that are provided in accordance
      with the contractual provisions, such as system design, installation
      supervision, installation, testing, debugging, inspection, system
      operation, maintenance, support, and others.

1.11  "Software upgrades" refer to program modifications and corrections that
      are performed by Party B, including code changes and alterations of
      end-user documentation that do not materially change program indices or
      involve version upgrades.

1.12  "Version upgrades" refer to major improvements of application programs
      which are certified by Party B to be new versions. Such improvements
      expand, alter, and enhance programs by increasing functions and
      performance while retaining the design purposes of the original programs.

1.13  "The construction site" refers to the system's specific installation and
      debugging location as designated by Party A.

1.14  "Training" refers to the installation, debugging, startup, and operating
      maintenance principles and the actual operation of the system that are
      taught to Party A by Party B, as well as to other related knowledge.

1.15  "The final test" refers to the last test before the system goes into
      regular operation. The test contents include the operating stability of
      all of the system's hardware, the stability of third party software, the
      application software and the stability of specially developed software.
      They also include completeness of documentation and training progress.
      After the system passes the final test, it goes into regular operation.

                   SECTION 2 PROJECT CONTENTS AND REQUIREMENTS

2.1   Party A intends to invest in the development of the "Inspection and
      Quarantine Great Customs Clearance" project.

2.2   Based on Party A's requirements, Party B will perform work such as writing
      the requirements analysis report, design of the system proposal,
      compilation of the codes, software tests, and technical support.

2.3   The project will be carried out in two stages. For the detailed
      requirements, see the "Requirements Analysis Report".

                                       4
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

2.4   The project will be composed of the contents listed below:

      1.    Electronic Document Review and Speedy Customs Clearance system;

      2.    Great Customs Port Speedy Acceptance Inspection system;

            a)    Seaport version;

            b)    Airport version;

            c)    Land version;

            d)    Railway version.

      3.    PRC Inspections Administration Service Website system.

For the detailed requirements, see the "Requirements Analysis Report".

                   SECTION 3 CONTENTS OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT

3.1   The construction project contents that are referred to in this contract
      should include but are not limited to the ones listed below:

      -     System design proposal

      -     Hardware equipment's test installation, debugging, and acceptance
            inspection

      -     Application software program design and development

      -     Testing and acceptance inspection

      -     Training of Party A's staff

      -     Provision of technical documentation

      -     Service and maintenance

                        SECTION 4 SYSTEM DESIGN PROPOSAL

4.1   Party B promises to draw up a design proposal that meets the project
      development requirements based on Party A's needs. After obtaining Party
      A's consent, this design proposal will be regarded as the basis for the
      development of the said project.

4.2   After the project design proposal is approved by Party A, Party B is not
      entitled to unilaterally revise this proposal. If this proposal needs to
      be revised upon Party B's initiative, Party A's consent must be obtained.
      Moreover, the new design proposal will be valid only after the revised
      design proposal is presented to Party A.

4.3   If this proposal needs to be revised on Party A's account, Party A should
      notify Party B in writing, and Party B should draw up a new design
      proposal as soon as

                                       5
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

      possible based on Party A's needs and submit it for Party A's consent. If
      Party B devotes more than eight hours of staff work because the revision
      scope is too large, both parties should determine through consultation the
      additional costs that Party A is required to pay.

                               SECTION 5 TRAINING

5.1   Party B promises to draw up a training program based on the project
      requirements (for details, see the "Training Program"). After obtaining
      Party A's consent, such trading program will be regarded as the basis for
      the training.

5.2   Party B promises to provide technical training to Party A's technicians,
      and the training times will be jointly agreed upon by both parties.

                             SECTION 6 DOCUMENTATION

6.1   Party B promises to provide all related documentation (for details, see
      the "Provided Documentation List") during the system development process
      until the acceptance inspection work is completed and pass the acceptance
      inspection.

6.2   Party B promises to cooperate with Party A at the time of system
      modifications or updates and upgrades, and to promptly provide updated or
      corresponding documentation.

                     SECTION 7 SYSTEM ACCEPTANCE INSPECTION

7.1   Acceptance Inspection Criteria

      7.1.1 Party B promises to be responsible for drawing up the technical
            specifications, criteria, and progress plans for the final test of
            the system, and for writing a "System Acceptance Inspection
            Proposal". In order to ensure that the said project is completed in
            accordance with the predetermined schedule and quality, Party A is
            entitled to conduct regular phased inspections and acceptance
            inspections of the project, and the acceptance inspection criteria
            will be in the "Requirements Analysis Report" that is jointly signed
            by both parties. In the inspection process, if Party A discovers
            inappropriate issues in the original requirements, after obtaining
            the consent of Party B, it may suitably revise the requirements; if
            the revision of the requirements is too large and increases Party
            B's development difficulties, Party B is entitled to claim for
            increased expenses.

                                       6
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

      7.1.2 Party B consents to the organization by Party A of the relevant team
            of experts to conduct the final test of the system, and it promises
            to send a representative to cooperate with Party A in the completion
            of the project acceptance inspection work. For the system's final
            test criteria, see the "System Acceptance Inspection Proposal".

      7.1.3 Party A agrees to sign the initial test and final test reports with
            Party B after the work is completed and the system has passed the
            final test.

7.2   The Final Test of the System

      7.2.1 If, after the installation and debugging of the application software
            is completed and the system enters the test operation stage, the
            system operates smoothly for 15 consecutive days, the application
            software programs are stable, the documentation is complete, and
            appropriate progress has been made in training, then the system
            meets the final test terms. After the end of its test operation
            stage, the system can undergo its final test, and Party B will
            present a written final test request.

      7.2.2 Party A must organize the final test of the system within one week
            after receipt of Party B's final test request.

      7.2.3 Before the final test, Party B should provide all of the
            construction project documentation and the installation test report,
            and it should also provide the final test documentation. The final
            test may proceed after Party A's consent is obtained.

      7.2.4 The final test of the system should be carried out with the
            participation of Party A's technicians and in accordance with the
            provisions of the "System Acceptance Inspection Proposal", and Party
            B's technicians will conduct the specific test work. The test
            results should be recorded in detail, and the participating staff of
            both parties should sign and certify each item. The entire test
            results must be signed by the representatives of both parties.

      7.2.5 After the system passes the final test, the "System Final Test
            Report" should be signed by the representatives of both parties
            within two days after the completion of the test.

7.3   The System's Official Operations Warranty Period

      7.3.1 Starting on the day that the final test is passed, the system
            automatically enters the official operations warranty period, which
            lasts for one year.

      7.3.2 During the warranty operations period, upon Party A's request, Party
            B's technicians should provide full onsite technical support.

                                       7
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                  SECTION 8 CONTRACT AMOUNT AND PAYMENT METHOD

8.1     Contract Amount

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 Unit: RMB
Project                                 First Stage         Second Stage          Subtotal
-------                               ----------------    ----------------    ----------------
<S>                                   <C>                 <C>                 <C>
Electronic Document Review and        RMB2,000,000.00     RMB1,000,000.00     RMB3,000,000.00
Speedy Customs Clearance system
Port Speedy Acceptance Inspection     RMB1,500,000.00     RMB500,000.00       RMB2,000,000.00
(Seaport version)
Port Speedy Acceptance Inspection                         RMB1,500,000.00     RMB1,500,000.00
(Airport version)
Port Speedy Acceptance Inspection                         RMB1,500,000.00     RMB1,500,000.00
(Land version)
Port Speedy Acceptance Inspection                         RMB1,000,000.00     RMB1,000,000.00
Railway version)
PRC Inspections Administration        RMB500,000.00       RMB500,000.00       RMB1,000,000.00
Service Website system

Total                                 RMB4,000,000.00     RMB6,000,000.00     RMB10,000,000.00
</TABLE>

      Total contract price:
            RMB in words: ten million;
                   in figures: [RMB]10,000,000.00.

8.2   Payment Method

      8.2.1 After the completion and acceptance inspection of the first stage of
            the construction project, Party A will pay to Party B the full first
            stage construction project amount

            RMB in words: four million;
                   in figures: [RMB]4,000,000.00.

      8.2.2 After the completion and acceptance inspection of the second stage
            of the construction project, Party A will pay to Party B 70 percent
            of the total second stage construction project amount

            RMB in words: four million two hundred thousand;
                   in figures: [RMB]4,200,000.00.

      8.2.3 If the system passes the final test, operates smoothly for three
            months, and experiences no major quality problems or technical
            problems during the three months, then Party A will pay the full
            remaining balance to Party B.

               RMB in words: one million eight hundred thousand;

                                       8
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                in figures: [RMB]1,800,000.00.

                           SECTION 9 QUALITY ASSURANCE

9.1   Party B is responsible for providing Party A with technical training and
      technical advisory services in order to ensure that the system can operate
      in accordance with the stipulated criteria under the conditions of correct
      configuration, a good environment, and proper maintenance.

9.2   In the course of the project, Party A should provide Party B with the
      necessary operations advice and should coordinate Party A's relevant
      departments so that they provide the necessary support to Party B.
      Whenever necessary, Party A should convene the relevant departments to
      hold an operations coordination conference in order to ensure Party B's
      development progress and development quality.

                       SECTION 10 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

10.1  Party B promises to draw up a service and maintenance program before the
      contract signing. After it is approved by Party A, it will be regarded as
      the basis for the service and maintenance work.

10.2  Party B promises to provide Party A, during the project implementation
      process and after the system goes into operation, with the relevant
      service and maintenance work in accordance with the service and
      maintenance program.

10.3  After the service and maintenance program is approved by Party A and
      certified by both parties, neither party is entitled to revise it
      unilaterally (if the maintenance contents need to be revised due to
      technical needs, both parties should jointly consult and approve the
      revisions before the maintenance contents may be revised).

10.4  If the service and maintenance work contents need to be revised due to
      Party A's work needs, Party A should notify Party B in writing. Party B
      should consult with Party A immediately, draw up a new service and
      maintenance program, and submit it for approval by Party A.

10.5  In order to ensure that the said system operates normally and safely after
      the project development is complete, Party B promises to provide three
      years of maintenance service for the said project. The maintenance
      response time for a

                                       9
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

      software problem is 12 hours, and the maintenance response time for a
      database problem is two hours.

10.6  Party B will provide one year of free maintenance service for the project
      covered by this contract, and the maintenance period starts after the
      acceptance inspection of the system; it provides three years of
      preferential technical upgrading for the provided software products; and
      it provides free capacity expansion and upgrading based on Party A's
      needs.

10.7  After the warranty period, Party B promises to continue to provide Party A
      with technical support, and Party A is responsible for paying Party B for
      the costs and expenses that are actually incurred.

        SECTION 11 CONSTRUCTION PERIOD AND CONSTRUCTION PROJECT PROGRESS

11.1  The construction period of the first stage of this project is from the
      construction start date until the representatives of both parties sign the
      first stage acceptance inspection report, which is projected to be 90 days
      .

11.2  The construction period of the second stage of this project is from the
      second stage construction start date until the representatives of both
      parties sign the second stage acceptance inspection report, which is
      projected to be 180 days .

11.3  The construction start date of this project is the date on which Party A
      makes the advance payment to Party B after the contract takes effect.

                            SECTION 12 FORCE MAJEURE

12.1  Force majeure refers to events such as wars, fires, typhoons, floods,
      earthquakes, or other events that are regarded by both parties to be force
      majeure factors. The confirmation of a force majeure event must be based
      on legally valid supporting documents that are provided by an
      authoritative body that is jointly recognized by both parties.

12.2  If either party is forced to suspend or postpone the contract performance
      due to force majeure event, the contract performance will be
      correspondingly delayed, and the postponement period will equal to the
      time when the force majeure is in effect.

12.3  The affected party should notify the other party in writing of the
      occurrence of a force majeure event as soon as possible.

                                       10
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

12.4  After a force majeure event ends or is eliminated, the affected party
      should notify the other party in writing as soon as possible that the
      force majeure event is ended or eliminated.

12.5  If the force majeure event exceeds two months, either party should contact
      the other party to resolve the matter of the contract performance. If the
      force majeure event exceeds three consecutive months, either party is
      entitled to terminate all or part of the contract, and Party B must return
      to Party A the amount related to the non-performance of the contract.

                          SECTION 13 BREACH OF CONTRACT

13.1  If, because of Party B, the system cannot be turned over on schedule as
      provided in the contract, Party B will be responsible for paying a fine.
      Starting on the scheduled date of delivery of the system, Party B will pay
      a fine of 0.5 percent of the contract price of the delayed goods for every
      week of late delivery. Less than one week will be counted as one week, but
      the total fine may not exceed 20 percent of the value of the system that
      is delivered late.

13.2  If, because of Party A, there is an overdue payment, Party A should pay a
      breach penalty to Party B. After two weeks past the deadline provided in
      the payment terms of this contract, Party A should pay a late penalty of
      0.5 percent of the overdue amount for every week of late payment. Less
      than one week is counted as one week, but the total penalty may not exceed
      20 percent of the amount of the late payment.

13.3  After the signing of the contract , if the contract performance is
      terminated because of Party B, Party B will pay Party A a breach penalty
      of 5 percent of the contract amount.

13.4  After the signing of the contract, if the contract performance is
      terminated because of Party A, Party A will pay Party B a breach penalty
      of 5 percent of the contract amount.

13.5  Excluding force majeure events, if the construction period is delayed due
      to what both parties jointly hold to be Party A's fault (such as the
      failure to promptly provide the test environment), Party B assumes no
      liability.

13.6  Excluding force majeure events, if, due to what both parties jointly hold
      to be Party A's fault, a system malfunction occurs and causes a production
      loss, Party B assumes no liability.

                           SECTION 14 CONFIDENTIALITY

                                       11
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

14.1  Both parties have unanimously agreed through consultation that, while the
      contract is in effect and after the contract is terminated, either party
      will keep in strict confidentiality the secret information about affairs,
      businesses, or operating methods that it holds pertaining to the other
      party and the technical documentation that is provided by Party B. Both
      parties will sign a confidentiality agreement. Except with the
      authorization of the other party or due to the need for related parties to
      conduct operations, neither party may disclose any confidential
      information at any time to any person. Both parties further agree not to
      turn over any confidential information to any person, unless with the
      written consent of the other party or due to a reasonable need of one
      party to fulfill its obligations. Both parties agree not to copy or
      transcribe confidential information.

14.2  This clause does not apply to the contents listed below:

      (1)   Contents that are, when provided, already in the public domain or in
            the category of common knowledge;

      (2)   Contents that are in the public domain through publications or other
            reasons (excluding unauthorized actions or negligence), and that
            have become common knowledge;

      (3)   Contents provided by any third party without restrictions, for which
            contents the said third party has no express or implicit
            confidentiality obligations;

      (4)   Contents that are required by law to be disclosed to any institution
            or organization.

14.3  The software that is provided by Party B is not involved in any copyright
      disputes. If the use of software that is provided by Party B results in a
      copyright dispute, Party B will assume responsibility for all
      consequential losses to Party A.

              SECTION 15 PATENTS AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

15.1  Both contracting parties should protect patents that appear in the
      contract.

15.2  Party B guarantees that neither the equipment nor any part of it that
      Party A uses in the contract is subject to claims or legal proceedings
      filed by a third party concerning infringements of its patents,
      trademarks, industrial designs, or other protected rights.

15.3  Party B holds the entire intellectual property rights to software products
      that are provided to Party A, and revisions of Party B's software that are
      made by Party B for Party A's current work requirements are applicable
      only in this project.

                                       12
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                   SECTION 16 SOFTWARE COPYRIGHTS AND LICENSES

16.1  Copyrights

      All software developed by Party B in the said project is commissioned for
      development by Party A and its software copyrights belong to Party A. In
      light of the fact that Party B uses certain proprietary technology in the
      development process of this software, Party A is responsible for the
      confidentiality of the details of the software. Without the consent of the
      other party, neither party may sell, transfer, or disclose the
      above-described software, materials, or descriptions to a third party.

16.2  Proprietary technology that is involved in the software is owned by Party
      B. The ownership or naming rights to the software are not transferred to
      Party A.

16.3  Scope of Permission

      Proprietary technology that is involved in the software is protected by
      copyright laws and international treaties. Party A may not reverse
      engineer, decode, or decompile this part of the software, except where the
      law provides that Party B may not prohibit such actions.

      Electronic documentation. Unless otherwise provided, Party A may, in the
      reasonable exercise of its rights to use this software, print out the
      electronic software documentation that is attached to the software.

                      SECTION 17 DISPUTE RESOLUTION METHOD

If a dispute arises in the performance of this contract, both parties will
resolve it through consultation. If mutual consultation fails, both parties
consent to its arbitration by the Beijing Arbitration Commission.

                        SECTION 18 CONTRACT MODIFICATION

18.1  In the event that an authoritative body that is jointly recognized by both
      parties provides certification, and both parties jointly confirm that a
      force majeure event has occurred and has forced the suspension or
      postponement of the contract performance, the contract performance will be
      correspondingly delayed, and the postponement time will equal to the time
      when the force majeure is in effect. If the force majeure event exceeds
      two months, either party should contact the other party to resolve the
      matter of the contract performance. If the force majeure event exceeds
      three consecutive months, either party is entitled to terminate all or
      part

                                       13
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

      of the contract, and Party B must return to Party A the amount related to
      the non-performance of the contract.

18.2  If, excluding force majeure events, certain factors arise in the course of
      the implementation of this project that make one party hold that it is
      necessary to modify the contract, it must notify the other party in
      writing as soon as possible. After obtaining the approval of the other
      party through consultation, a new contract must be signed. Otherwise,
      neither party is entitled to modify the contract unilaterally.

           SECTION 19 CONTRACT VALIDITY, CANCELLATION AND TERMINATION

19.1  The date on which the authorized representatives of both parties sign and
      seal this contract is the effective date of this contract.

19.2  The occurrence of any of the circumstances listed below may be deemed as
      cancellation or termination of the contract:

      (1)   This contract is valid, and it has been completely fulfilled.

      (2)   If the force majeure event exceeds two months, either party should
            contact the other party, in order to resolve the matter of the
            contract performance. If the force majeure event exceeds three
            consecutive months, either party is entitled to terminate all or
            part of the contract, and Party B must return to Party A the amount
            related to the non-performance of the contract.

      (3)   Excluding force majeure causes, both parties jointly agree to an
            early cancellation of the contract.

      (4)   In accordance with the decision of the arbitration agency, the
            contract is cancelled or terminated.

                            SECTION 20 MISCELLANEOUS

20.1  This contract is composed of all of its provided terms and the attachments
      referred to below:

      Attachment 1  Requirements Analysis Report

      Attachment 2  Application Software Program Installation and Debugging
                    Program

      Attachment 3  Provided Documentation List

      Attachment 4  System Acceptance Inspection Proposal

                                       14
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

      All of the attachments to this contract are inseparable parts of this
      contract, and they have the same legal effect as this contract.

20.2  The terms of this contract constitute the entire agreement and
      understanding reached by both parties on the subject matter of this
      contract, and they shall replace and supersede all previous agreements,
      understandings, related documents, and presentations.

20.3  Any revisions of or supplements to the terms of this contract must be made
      through written documents signed by the authorized representatives of both
      parties to the contract. Revisions or supplements that are jointly signed
      by both parties have the same legal effect as this contract. If they
      conflict with the terms of this contract, the revisions or supplements
      will prevail. This contract consists of four identical original copies,
      and each party keeps two copies.

20.4  Neither party may disclose the contract contents to a third party, unless
      the prior consent of the other party is obtained. However, if it is
      required to submit this contract to a government department concerned for
      approval, the consent of the other party is not required.

20.5  Matters not covered in this contract are all implemented in accordance
      with the relevant existing laws of the People's Republic of China.

                                       15
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

                               SECTION 21 SIGNING

<TABLE>
<S>      <C>                   <C>                                               <C>
                                                                                    Technology
Party A   Title (or Name)      Beijing Regard Technology Co., Ltd.  (Signature)      Contract
                                                                                 Special Seal or
                                                                                  Official Seal

          Legal
          Representative       Tian Hongmei                         (Signature)
          Authorized Agent                                          (Signature)   Beijing Regard
          Contact Person                                                         Technology Co.,
          (Person in Charge)   Shan Pin Fang  /s/ Shan Pin Fang     (Signature)        Ltd.
                                                                    [Seal]

          Residence (Postal    #406 No. 1 Building, 3    Zip
          Address)             No. 2 Yard, Hengfu        Code     100070
                               Middle Street, Fengtai
                               Science Park, Fengtai
                               District, Beijing
                               Municipality

          Telephone            010-65882661       Fax    010-65882265
          Bank of Deposit
          Account No.

Party B   Title (or Name)      Beijing Ninetowns Ports Software and Technology      Technology
                               Co., Ltd.                            (Signature)      Contract
                                                                                 Special Seal or
                                                                                  Official Seal

          Legal                                                                      Beijing
          Representative                                            (Signature)   Ninetowns Ports
          Authorized Agent     /s/ Wu Bo Lin                        (Signature)    Software and
          Contact Person                                                          Technology Co.,
          (Person in Charge)                                        (Signature)        Ltd.
                                                                                      [Seal]

          Residence (Postal    5th Floor, Union
          Address)             Plaza, 20 Chaowai       Zip      100020
                               Street, Chaoyang        Code
                               District, Beijing
                               100020, The People's
                               Republic of China
          Telephone            010-65887788     Fax    010-65882260
          Bank of Deposit
          Account No.
</TABLE>

                                       16
<PAGE>

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT

Affix Revenue Stamps Here
------------------------------------------

(The space below is only for use by the Technology Contract Registration Agency)

Contract Registration No.:

         | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

      1. Registration Applicant: _______________________________________________

      2. Registration Materials: (1)____________________________________________

                                 (2)____________________________________________

                                 (3)____________________________________________

      3. Contract Type:_________________________________________________________

      4. Contract Transaction Amount:___________________________________________

      5. Technology Transaction Amount:_________________________________________

                 Technology Contract Registration Agency (Seal)

                                Person in Charge:

                                      Year    Month   Day

                                       17

Source: [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00073-of-00352.parquet"}, [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00073-of-00352.parquet"}]]