China will become the world's leading gold producer in 2008, with output reaching 300 tonnes, according to an estimate made by the China Gold Association on Tuesday.

By Feiwen Rong China will probably overtake the United States as the world's second-biggest gold producer this year and could end South Africa's century-long dominance within five years, the country's industry association said.

By Feiwen Rong China will probably overtake the United States as the world's second-biggest gold producer this year and is moving closer to ending South Africa's century-long dominance, a Chinese industry official said.