Guangzhou Wanglaoji Great Health Industry Co, the famous Chinese herbal tea producer, has created a 50 million yuan ($8 million) foundation to develop youth soccer in China.

The foundation's work will cover cooperation efforts between China and overseas soccer powerhouses, as well as the promotion of youth soccer in communities and schools, said Zhao Min, its deputy general manager.

A subsidiary of Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co Ltd, Wanglaoji has a long history of supporting soccer development in China. It previously sponsored a professional soccer club, Shenzhen Ruby FC, and launched a nationwide five-a-side soccer tournament in universities last year.