The reputation of Shenzhen as a mecca for migrants in China has been supported by a nationwide sample census which reported an increase of 1.26 million permanent residents in the city in five years.

Based on the one-percent sample census carried out nationwide on November 1, 2005, the number of permanent residents in the booming city neighboring Hong Kong stood at 8.27 million, compared to 7.01 million five years ago, said latest information released by the city's statistical bureau.

And the annual growth range from November 2000 to November 2005 was placed at 3.36 percent.  By late 2005, Shenzhen's total population would have topped 8.28 million.

An official with the statistical bureau said the city's sample census had been conducted among 253,400 residents, of whom 214,600 were permanent residents.

According to the census, Shenzhen leads the country in terms of population density, with 4,239 people per square km.

Shenzhen, which used to be a small fishing village with a population fewer than 20,000, was chosen to pilot China's reform and opening-up drive via the creation of a special economic zone in 1980.  It has grown into a leading foreign trade player in the country.

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