Disney's Great Leap into China

Even before its opening, Disney is plotting to expand. According to Rasulo, Disney has been in discussions with government officials in China to bring a Disneyland to the mainland, perhaps to Shanghai. Executives are already preparing new attractions for Hong Kong, such as an updated version of the popular racing ride Autopia, due to open in mid-2006. On the drawing board are plans to nearly double the park's capacity and possibly add a second park. "We're in for a long-term commitment," says Robinson. "It's not like just opening an office and selling a product. We have a castle." With all those grand plans, Disney realizes that the route to success in the world's most populous country is still blocked by a few Chinese walls. "Our eyes are wide open to the fact that, while China is very exciting for us in terms of potential, it's filled with great challenges," Iger says. Disney is wishing on a red star and hoping all its dreams come true.