Shanghai is seeking to market a homegrown satellite navigation technology by setting up a navigation and positioning platform and an inspection center, sources said.

The Shanghai Beidou Satellite Navigation Platform Co Ltd was introduced, as well as the Beidou (Shanghai) positioning service platform and Shanghai Beidou navigation and positioning service product inspection center, on Sept 11, according to the Shanghai-based Wenhui News.

Beidou (Compass) Navigation Satellite System is a global satellite positioning and communication system that was developed by China. The system is expected to begin offering services to customers in the Asia-Pacific region by the end of this year.

The Beidou navigation system is now mainly used in marine affairs, communications and emergency management and rescue.

According to a plan, Shanghai aims to become a pioneer in China in the development of the satellite navigation system by 2015.

The basic goal for companies related to the Beidou in Shanghai is to provide navigation, positioning and high-precision time services, among other value-added services. Those services are to rely on a more sophisticated Beidou satellite navigation positioning system, which is compatible with GPS and incorporates mobile communication network, Internet and other information services.