Forty designers are competing for the spectacular interior exhibition plan of the grand red China Pavilion at the World Expo Shanghai 2010, the highlight of the fair.

Expo organisers yesterday announced the 40 top design firms from among around 80 applicants for the design of the exhibition space itself. There were 70 applicants from 11 countries and regions and 10 applicants from mainland Chinese provinces and cities.

The winner will be announced in mid-April.

Organisers said they are seeking a brilliant, creative and unique exhibition plan to express the theme "Chinese wisdom in an urban setting." The Expo theme is "Better City, Better Life."

Construction of the dramatic 20,000 square-meter Chinese-red structure has already begun.

Organisers yesterday explained to the 40 candidates the theme, construction standards and design requirements so that companies can design the exhibition plan.

The China pavilion will explain the urban application of traditional Chinese values of harmony, nature and spirit.

Exhibitors have not yet been chosen.