Despite possible delays in equipment deliveries, China Star OptoELectronics Technology (CSOT), the 8.5G subsidiary of China-based TCL, is in talks with suppliers and trying to reduce the effects of any delays and still aims for mass production in the fourth quarter of 2011.

China is actively developing the TFT-LCD panel industry, of which the production schedule of BOE's 8.5G plant in Beijing will not be delayed as the company ordered equipment early enough. BOE's 8.5G plant is scheduled to start mass production in the third quarter of 2011. However, CSOT's 8.5G plant reportedly will not be able to start mass production in the fourth quarter as scheduled due to delays in equipment deliveries.

Based on a report from Shanghai Securities News, CSOT has started to prepare for equipment installation, a month earlier than originally scheduled.

Shanghai Securities News cited TCL senior vice president and CSOT CEO He Chengming saying that although the Japan earthquake has delayed equipment deliveries, CSOT is actively in talks with suppliers to reduce the effects and is confident it will start mass production in the fourth quarter of 2011.