As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 30, 200618, 2007


UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 


FORM 20-F

 


 

¨REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

xANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20052006

OR

 

¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from            to            

OR

 

¨SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report            

 


Commission file number 001-31914

 


LOGOLOGO

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

China Life Insurance Company Limited

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

People’s Republic of China

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 


16 Chaowai Avenue

Chaoyang District

Beijing 100020, China

(Address of principal executive offices)

 


Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each Class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

American depositary shares New York Stock Exchange, Inc.
H shares, par value RMB1.00 per share New York Stock Exchange, Inc.*


 

*Not for trading, but only in connection with the listing on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. of American depositary shares, each representing 4015 H shares.

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None.

(Title of Class)

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:

None.

(Title of Class)


Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s class of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

As of December 31, 2005, 19,323,530,000 domestic2006, 7,441,175,000 H shares and 7,441,175,000 H20,823,530,000 A shares, par value RMB1.00 per share, were issued and outstanding. Both domestic shares and H shares are ordinary shares. H shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Since January 9, 2007, A shares, par value RMB 1.00 per share, have been listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Both H shares and A shares are ordinary shares.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.x  Yes    ¨  No

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.¨  Yes    x  No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such report)reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.x  Yes    ¨  No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one)

Large accelerated filer  x    Accelerated filer  ¨    Non-accelerated filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.¨  Item 17    x  Item 18

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company.company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    ¨  Yes    x  No

 



CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

  1

CERTAIN TERMS AND CONVENTIONS

  2

PART I

    4

Item 1.

  

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

  4

Item 2.

  

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

  4

Item 3.

  

Key Information

  4
  

Selected Financial Data

  4
  

Capitalization and Indebtedness

  1112
  

Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

  1112
  

Risk Factors

  1112

Item 4.

  

Information on the CompanyCompany.

  2829
  

History and Development of the Company

  2829
  

Business Overview

  36
  

OrganizationOrganizational Structure

  7981
  

Property, Plants and Equipment

  8083

Item 4A.

  

Unresolved Staff Comments

  8083

Item 5.

  

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

80

Overview

80

Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations

  83
  

Operating ResultsOverview

  9883
  

Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations

86
Operating Results100
Liquidity and Capital Resources

  111
  

Research and Development, Patents and Licenses

114
Trend Information114
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements114
Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations  114
  

Trend Information

114

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

114

Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

114

Reconciliation of Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards (HKFRS) and United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (U.S. GAAP)

  115114

Item 6.

  

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

  116114
  

Directors and Senior managementManagement

  116114
  

Compensation

  121
  

Board Practices

124

Employees

  125
  

Share OwnershipEmployees

126

Item 7.

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

  126
  

Share Ownership

126
    Item 7.Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions.

  126
  

Major Shareholders

126
Related Party Transactions

  127
  

Interests of Experts and Counsel

  135137

Item 8.

  

Financial Information

  136137
  

Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information

  136137
  

Significant Changes

  138140
  

Embedded Value

  138140

Item 9.

  

The Offer and Listing

  142144

Item 10.

  

Additional InformationInformation.

  143144

 

i


  

Share Capital

  143144
  

Articles of Association

  143145
  

Material Contracts

  160161
  

Exchange Controls

  160161
  

Taxation

  160162
  

Dividends and Paying Agents

  168169
  

Statement by Experts

  168169
  

Documents on Display

  168169
  

Subsidiary Information

  168170

Item 11.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market RiskRisk.

  168170

Item 12.

  

Description of Securities Other Than Equity SecuritiesSecurities.

  173174

PART II

    173174

Item 13.

  

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and DelinquenciesDelinquencies.

  173174

Item 14.

  

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of ProceedsProceeds.

  173174
  

Material Modification To The Rights Of Security Holders

  173174
  

Use Of Proceeds

  173174

Item 15.

  

Controls and ProceduresProcedures.

  173175
  

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

  173175
  

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

  174175
  

Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

174

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

  174176

Item 16A.

  

Audit Committee Financial ExpertExpert.

  174177

Item 16B.

  

Code of Ethics

  174177

Item 16C.

  

Principal Accountant Fees and ServicesServices.

  174177

Item 16D.

  

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

  175177

Item 16E.

  

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated PurchasersPurchasers.

  175177

PART III

    175177

Item 17.

  

Financial Statements

  175177

Item 18.

  

Financial StatementsStatements.

  175178

Item 19.

  

ExhibitsExhibits.

  175178

 

ii


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This annual report contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements state our intentions, beliefs, expectations or predictions for the future, in particular under “Item 4. Information on the Company”, “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and “Item 8. Financial Information—Embedded Value”.

The forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements relating to:

 

future developments in the insurance industry in China;

 

the industry regulatory environment as well as the industry outlook generally;

 

the amount and nature of, and potential for, future development of our business;

 

the outcome of litigation and regulatory proceedings that we currently face or may face in the future;

 

our business strategy and plan of operations;

 

the prospective financial information regarding our business;

 

our dividend policy; and

 

information regarding our embedded value.

In some cases, we use words such as “believe”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “forecast”, “plan”, “potential”, “will”, “may”, “should” and “expect” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this annual report, including statements regarding our future financial position, strategy, projected costs and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct, and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations are disclosed under “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this annual report, including in conjunction with the forward-looking statements included in this annual report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this annual report, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements contained in this annual report are qualified by reference to this cautionary statement.


CERTAIN TERMS AND CONVENTIONS

Conventions

References in this annual report to “we”, “us”, “our” or “China Life” mean China Life Insurance Company Limited and, as the context may require, its subsidiaries. References to “CLIC” mean, prior to the restructuring described below, China Life Insurance Company and, as the context may require, its subsidiaries, and subsequent to the restructuring, China Life Insurance (Group) Company and, as the context may require, its subsidiaries, other than China Life. References in this annual report to “AMC” mean China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited, the asset management joint venture established by us with CLIC on November 23, 2003.

The statistical and market share information contained in this annual report has been derived from government sources, including the China Insurance Yearbook 2003, the China Insurance Yearbook 2004, the China Insurance Yearbook 2005, the China Insurance Yearbook 2006, and other public sources. The information has not been verified by us independently. Unless otherwise indicated, market share information set forth in this annual report is based on premium information as reported by the CIRC. The reported information includes premium information that is not determined in accordance with HKFRS or U.S. GAAP. Our market

References to “A share information for yearsoffering” mean the 1,500,000,000 ordinary domestic shares which were newly issued by us on December 26, 2006 and offered to strategic, institutional and public investors as approved by the CSRC. References to “CLIC A shares” mean the 19,323,530,000 ordinary domestic shares held by CLIC prior to 2004 set forth in this annual report is estimatedthe A share offering and which have been registered with the China Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation Limited as circulative A shares with restrictive trading following the A share offering. CLIC has undertaken that for a period of 36 months commencing on January 9, 2007, it will not transfer or put on trust the CLIC A shares held by computingit or allow such CLIC A shares to be repurchased by China Life. References to “A shares” mean the marketRMB ordinary shares listed on the SSE, which include the CLIC A shares and the 1,500,000,000 ordinary domestic shares issued pursuant to the A share of our predecessor company, CLIC, and adjusting it to give effect to our restructuring, basedoffering. A shares have been listed on premiums determined in accordance with PRC GAAP. Under PRC GAAP, premiums include premiums and deposits.the SSE since January 9, 2007.

References to “China” or “PRC” mean the People’s Republic of China, excluding, for purposes of this annual report, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. References to the “central government” mean the government of the PRC. References to “State Council” mean the State Council of the PRC. References to the “CIRC” mean the China Insurance Regulatory Commission. References to “MOF” or “Ministry of Finance” mean the Ministry of Finance of the PRC. References to “Ministry of Commerce” mean the Ministry of Commerce of the PRC, which assumed the regulatory functions of the former Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation of the PRC, or “MOFTEC”. References to “CSRC” mean the China Securities Regulatory Commission.

References to “effective date” mean June 30, 2003, the effective date of the restructuring under the restructuring agreement between CLIC and us.

References to “HKSE” or “Hong Kong Stock Exchange” mean The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. References to “NYSE” or “New York Stock Exchange” mean New York Stock Exchange, Inc.

Unless otherwise indicated, references to an “affiliate” of a company mean any entity of, over or in which the company, alone or acting with others in concert, holds at least 30% of the issued share capital or exercises or controls the exercise of at least 30% of the voting power or has the power to elect a majority of the board of directors or otherwise exercises control.

References to “effective date”“SSE” or “Shanghai Stock Exchange” mean June 30, 2003, the effective date of the restructuring under the restructuring agreement between CLIC and us.Shanghai Stock Exchange.

References to “Renminbi” or “RMB” in this annual report mean the currency of the PRC, references to “U.S. dollars” or “US$” mean the currency of the United States of America, and references to “Hong Kong dollars”, “H.K. dollars” or “HK$” mean the currency of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC.

References to “U.S. GAAP” mean the generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, references to “HKFRS” mean the financial reporting standards in Hong Kong, which are effective for accounting periods commencing on or after January 1, 2005, and references to “PRC GAAP” mean the PRC Accounting Rules and Regulations for Business Enterprises and PRC Accounting System for

Financial Institutions. Unless otherwise indicated, our financial information presented in this annual report has been prepared in accordance with HKFRS.

Unless otherwise indicated, translations of RMB amounts into U.S. dollars in this annual report have been made at the rate of US$1.00 to RMB 8.0702,7.8041, the noon buying rate in The City of New York for cable transfers payable in foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on December 30, 2005.29, 2006. The noon buying rate on May 26, 200611, 2007 on this basis was RMB 8.02457.6835 to US$1.00. No representation is made that Renminbi amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S. dollars at that rate on December 30, 200529, 2006 or at all.

Any discrepancies in any table between totals and sums of the amounts listed are due to rounding.

If there is any discrepancy or inconsistency between the Chinese names of the PRC entities in this annual report and their English translations, the Chinese version shall prevail.

PART I

 

ITEM 1.IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS.

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 2.OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE.

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 3.KEY INFORMATION.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data

The following tables set forth our selected consolidated financial information. We have derived the consolidated financial information as of and for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 20052006 from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. For consolidated financial information as of and for the years ended December 31, 20012002 and 2002,2003, we derived the information from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this annual report, as restated to reflect the adoption of Hong Kong Financial Report Standard and Hong Kong Accounting Standard, or HKFRS.report. As described below, the financial statements as of and for the yearsyear ended December 31, 2001 and 2002 present the financial results of our predecessor company, CLIC, and the 2003 statements of results of operations and cash flows present the results of CLIC for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2003 together with our results for the three-month period ended December 31, 2003. The accounting policies and methods of computation used in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are consistent with those used in the previously issued annual financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2004, except that we have changed certain of our accounting policies following its adoption of HKFRS that were effective for accounting periods commencing on or after January 1, 2005. The financial information for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001 were retroactively restated to reflect the adoption of HKFRS in 2005. Other than reclassification of certain investment and insurance accounts, there was no material impact from the adoption of HKFRS on shareholders’ equity and net profit for the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2005. The restatement, however, has resulted in changes to shareholders’ equity for the years of 2001 and 2002 and the net losses for the years of 2001, 2002 and 2003. Details of the new or revised HKFRS adopted by us are described in Note 2.1 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. The financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 were restated in accordance with HKFRS. Certain financial data in relation to our restructuring discussed elsewhere in this annual report have also been restated in accordance with the HKFRS.

For a reconciliation of our net profit and shareholders’ equity to U.S. GAAP, see Note 3436 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.

We were formed on June 30, 2003 in connection with CLIC’s restructuring. In connection with the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us (1) all long-term insurance policies (policies having a term of more than one year from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999, having policy terms approved by or filed with the CIRC on or after June 10, 1999 and either (i) recorded as a long-term insurance policy as of June June��30, 2003 in a database attached to the restructuring agreement as an annex or (ii) having policy terms for group supplemental medical insurance (fund type), (2) stand-alone short-term policies (policies having a term of one year or less from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999 and (3) all riders supplemental to the policies described in clauses (1) and (2) above, together with

the reinsurance contracts specified in an annex to the restructuring agreement. We refer to these policies as the “transferred policies”. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring”. All other insurance policies were retained by CLIC. We refer to these policies as the “non-transferred policies”. We assumed all obligations and liabilities of CLIC under the transferred policies. CLIC continues to be responsible for its liabilities and obligations under the non-transferred policies following the restructuring. The restructuring was effected through a restructuring agreement entered into with CLIC on September 30, 2003, with retroactive effect to June 30, 2003. Pursuant to PRC law and the restructuring agreement, the transferred policies were transferred to us as of June 30, 2003; however, for accounting purposes, the restructuring is treated as having occurred on September 30, 2003, the date of which all of the assets to be transferred were specifically identified. Therefore, for accounting purposes, our financial statements reflected a deemed distribution of assets to CLIC and deemed assumption of liabilities by CLIC as of September 30, 2003. To give effect to the restructuring agreement, the results of operations attributable to the timing difference between the effectiveness of the restructuring under the PRC law and the effectiveness of the restructuring for accounting purposes are reflected as a capital contribution from CLIC to us as of October 1, 2003. The business constituted by the policies and assets transferred to us and the obligations and liabilities assumed by us and the business

constituted by the policies, assets, obligations and liabilities retained by CLIC were, prior to the restructuring, under common management from a number of significant aspects. Therefore, our consolidated balance sheet data as of December 31, 2001 and 2002, and the consolidated income statement accounts data for the years ended December 31, 2001 and 2002, present the financial results of our predecessor company, CLIC, and they will not necessarily be indicative of our future earnings, cash flows or financial position as a stand-alone company. Our consolidated balance sheet data and consolidated income statement as of and for the year ended December 31, 2003 reflect the restructuring as having occurred on September 30, 2003.

You should read this information in conjunction with the rest of the annual report, including our audited consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” included elsewhere in this annual report.

  For the year ended December 31, 
  2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2005 
  RMB RMB RMB RMB RMB US$   For the year ended December 31, 
  (in millions except for per share data)   

2002

RMB

 

2003(1)

RMB

 

2004

RMB

 

2005

RMB

 

2006

RMB

 

2006

US$

 
  Restated Restated Restated Restated   (in millions except for per share data) 

Consolidated Income Statement Data

              

HKFRS

              

Revenues

              

Gross written premiums and policy fees

  56,869  68,769  69,334  66,257  81,022  10,040   68,769  69,334  66,257  81,022  99,417  12,739 

Less: premiums ceded to reinsurers

  (1,655) (1,869) (1,571) (1,182) (769) (95)  (1,869) (1,571) (1,182) (769) (140) (18)
                                      

Net written premiums and policy fees

  55,214  66,900  67,763  65,075  80,253  9,944   66,900  67,763  65,075  80,253  99,277  12,721 

Net change in unearned premium reserves

  (248) (476) (547) (67) (215) (27)  (476) (547) (67) (215) (430) (55)
                                      

Net premiums earned and policy fees

  54,966  66,424  67,216  65,008  80,038  9,918   66,424  67,216  65,008  80,038  98,847  12,666 
                                      

Net investment income

  6,276  8,347  9,825  11,317  16,685  2,067   8,347  9,825  11,317  16,685  24,942  3,196 

Net realized gains/(losses) on financial assets

  —    —    —    —    (510) (63)  —    —    —    (510) 1,595  204 

Net realized gains/(losses) on investments

  (6) 266  868  (237) —    —     266  868  (237) —    —    —   

Net fair value gains/(losses) on assets at fair value through income

  —    —    —    —    260  32 

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  —    —    —    260  20,044  2,568 

Net unrealized gains/(losses) on trading assets

  (322) (1,067) 247  (1,061) —    —     (1,067) 247  (1,061) —    —    —   

Other income

  293  338  727  1,779  1,739  215   338  727  1,779  1,739  1,883  241 
                                      

Total revenues

  61,207  74,308  78,883  76,806  98,212  12,170   74,308  78,883  76,806  98,212  147,311  18,876 
                   
                   

Benefits, claims and expenses

              

Insurance benefits and claims

              

Life insurance death and other benefits

  (10,099) (7,010) (8,570) (6,816) (8,311) (1,030)  (7,010) (8,570) (6,816) (8,311) (10,797) (1,384)

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  (3,829) (4,053) (4,882) (6,418) (6,847) (848)  (4,053) (4,882) (6,418) (6,847) (6,999) (897)

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

  (31,177) (40,541) (39,966) (25,361) (33,977) (4,210)  (40,541) (39,966) (25,361) (33,977) (44,238) (5,669)

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  (5,616) (6,783) (6,811) (3,704) (4,894) (606)  (6,783) (6,811) (3,704) (4,894) (6,386) (818)

Interest credited to investment contracts

  (183) (312) (449) (616) (973) (121)  (312) (449) (616) (973) (996) (128)

Increase in deferred income

  (3,355) (6,108) (5,942) (7,793) (8,521) (1,056)  (6,108) (5,942) (7,793) (8,521) (11,607) (1,487)

Policyholder dividends and participation in profits

  (177) (641) (1,207) (2,048) (5,359) (664)

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits

  (641) (1,207) (2,048) (5,359) (17,617) (2,257)

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

  (3,024) (3,832) (5,023) (6,263) (7,766) (962)  (3,832) (5,023) (6,263) (7,766) (10,259) (1,315)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs

  (2,176) (1,661) (1,294) (1,472) (1,845) (229)  (1,661) (1,294) (1,472) (1,845) (2,415) (309)

Administrative expenses

  (5,100) (6,162) (6,862) (6,585) (7,237) (897)  (6,162) (6,862) (6,585) (7,237) (9,339) (1,197)

Other operating expenses

  (1,110) (634) (872) (131) (798) (99)  (634) (872) (131) (798) (859) (110)

Interest expense on bank borrowings

  (5) (7) (7) —    —    —     (7) (7) —    —    —    —   

Statutory insurance fund

  (64) (73) (85) (96) (174) (22)  (73) (85) (96) (174) (194) (25)
                                      

Total benefits, claims and expenses

  (65,915) (77,817) (81,970) (67,303) (86,702) (10,743)  (77,817) (81,970) (67,303) (86,702) (121,706) (15,595)
                                      

Net profit/(loss) before income tax expense

  (4,708) (3,509) (3,087) 9,503  11,510  1,426   (3,509) (3,087) 9,503  11,510  25,605  3,281 

Income tax expense

  (4) (14) (1,180) (2,280) (2,145) (266)  (14) (1,180) (2,280) (2,145) (5,554) (712)
                                      

Net profit/(loss)

  (4,712) (3,523) (4,267) 7,223  9,365  1,160   (3,523) (4,267) 7,223  9,365  20,051  2,569 
                                      

Attributable to:

              

- Shareholders of the Company

  (4,706) (3,525) (4,252) 7,171  9,306  1,153 

- Minority interests

  (6) 2  (15) 52  59  7 

—Shareholders of the Company

  (3,525) (4,252) 7,171  9,306  19,956  2,557 

—Minority interest

  2  (15) 52  59  95  12 

Basic and diluted earnings/(loss) per share(1)(2)

  (0.24) (0.18) (0.21) 0.27  0.35  0.04   (0.18) (0.21) 0.27  0.35  0.75  0.10 
                                      

Dividends

  —    —    —    —    —    —     —    —    —    1,338  3,957  507 

U.S. GAAP

              

Revenues

  61,207  74,308  78,883  76,806  98,212  12,170   74,308  78,883  76,806  98,212  147,311  18,876 

Net profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders of the Company

  (3,336) (2,317) (1,287) 7,171  9,306  1,153   (2,317) (1,287) 7,171  9,306  19,956  2,557 

Net profit/(loss) per share(1)

  (0.17) (0.12) (0.06) 0.27  0.35  0.04 

Net profit/(loss) per ADS(1)

  (6.67) (4.63) (2.54) 10.72  13.91  1.72 

Net profit/(loss) per share(2)

  (0.12) (0.06) 0.27  0.35  0.75  0.10 

Net profit/(loss) per ADS(2)

  (4.63) (2.54) 10.72  13.91  N/A  N/A 

Net profit/(loss) per ADS(3)

  (1.74) (0.95) 4.02  5.22  11.18  1.43 


(1)Includes, through September 30, 2003, the assets, liabilities and operations retained by CLIC.
(2)The 20,000,000,000 shares issued to CLIC in the restructuring have been given retroactive treatment for purposes of computing per share and per ADS amounts. Numbers for the year ended December 31, 2003 and the years thereafterended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2005 are based on the weighted average number of 20,249,798,526 shares and 26,764,705,000 shares, respectively, in issue during such years. Numbers for the year ended December 31, 2006 are based on the weighted average number of 26,777,033,767 shares in issue during such year. Each ADS represents 40 H shares. Any discrepancies in the table between the amounts per share and the amounts per ADS are due to rounding.
(3)The ratio of ADSs to H shares was reduced from 40 H shares to 15 H shares on December 29, 2006. Accordingly, we have also calculated retroactively the net profit/(loss) per ADS based on each ADS representing 15 H shares for purposes of comparison.

  As of December 31,
  2001  2002  2003  2004  2005  2005
  RMB  RMB  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$  As of December 31,
  (in millions)  

2002

RMB

  

2003

RMB

  

2004

RMB

  

2005

RMB

  

2006

RMB

  

2006

US$

  Restated  Restated  Restated  Restated        (in millions)

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data

                        

HKFRS

                        

Assets

                        

Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation

  18,347  18,457  12,008  12,250  12,710  1,575

Property, plant and equipment

  18,457  12,008  12,250  12,710  14,565  1,866

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  10,893  18,084  24,868  32,787  37,741  4,677  18,084  24,868  32,787  37,741  39,230  5,027

Investments in associates

  2,035  —    —    —    6,071  778

Financial assets

                        

Debt securities

  53,284  76,337  70,604  150,234  255,554  31,666  76,337  70,604  150,234  255,554  357,898  45,860

Equity securities

  7,698  12,171  10,718  17,271  39,548  4,900  12,171  10,718  17,271  39,548  95,493  12,236

Term deposits

  76,083  123,675  137,192  175,498  164,869  20,429  123,675  137,192  175,498  164,869  175,476  22,485

Statutory deposits—restricted

  990  991  4,000  4,000  5,353  663  991  4,000  4,000  5,353  5,353  686

Investments in associated companies

  2,036  2,035  —    —    —    —  

Policy loans

  107  106  116  391  981  122  106  116  391  981  2,371  304

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  30,480  36,388  14,002  279  —    —    36,388  14,002  279  —    —    —  

Accrued investment income

  3,527  4,198  2,875  5,084  6,813  844  4,198  2,875  5,084  6,813  8,461  1,084

Premiums receivable

  1,844  1,757  2,801  3,912  4,959  614

Other financial assets

  336  231  —    —    —    —    231  —    —    —    —    —  

Premiums receivables

  1,757  2,801  3,912  4,959  6,066  777

Reinsurance assets

  1,100  1,224  997  1,297  1,182  146  1,224  997  1,297  1,182  986  126

Other assets

  3,587  5,923  3,451  1,458  2,212  283

Cash and cash equivalents

  17,855  14,529  42,616  27,217  28,051  3,476  14,529  42,616  27,217  28,051  50,213  6,434
                  

Other

  3,528  3,587  5,923  3,451  1,458  181
                                    

Total assets

  228,108  313,770  328,720  433,671  559,219  69,294  313,770  328,720  433,671  559,219  764,395  97,948
                                    

  As of December 31,
  2001 2002 2003 2004 2005  2005
  RMB RMB RMB RMB RMB  US$  As of December 31,
  (in millions)  

2002

RMB

 

2003

RMB

  

2004

RMB

  

2005

RMB

  

2006

RMB

  

2006

US$

  Restated Restated Restated Restated      (in millions)

Liabilities and equity

                   

Liabilities

                   

Insurance Contracts

                   

Short-term insurance contracts

                   

-Unearned premium reserves

  4,441  5,036  5,382  5,212  5,147  638  5,036  5,382  5,212  5,147  5,346  685

-Reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  867  879  814  1,215  1,784  221  879  814  1,215  1,784  2,498  320

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  253,285  292,551  63,965  89,698  124,656  15,446  292,551  63,965  89,698  124,656  172,875  22,152

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  163,677  212,108  135,982  191,885  237,001  29,367  212,108  135,982  191,885  237,001  282,672  36,221

Deferred income

  6,704  12,812  18,753  27,603  34,631  4,291  12,812  18,753  27,603  34,631  41,371  5,301

Financial liabilities

                   

Investment contracts

                   

-with discretionary participation feature (DPF)

  4,352  9,241  16,720  32,476  42,230  5,233  9,241  16,720  32,476  42,230  45,998  5,894

-without DPF

  4,079  2,698  2,029  1,635  1,872  232  2,698  2,029  1,635  1,872  2,614  335

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  14,608  3,602  6,448  —    4,731  586  3,602  6,448  —    4,731  8,227  1,054

Annuity and other insurance balances payable

  6,362  8,057  638  2,801  4,492  557  8,057  638  2,801  4,492  8,891  1,139

Premiums received in advance

  1,481  1,767  2,407  2,447  2,951  366  1,767  2,407  2,447  2,951  2,329  298

Policyholder deposits

  629  592  —    —    —    —    592  —    —    —    —    —  

Policyholder dividends payable

  177  688  1,916  2,037  6,204  769  688  1,916  2,037  6,204  26,057  3,339

Bank borrowings

  379  313  —    —    —    —    313  —    —    —    —    —  

Provision

  330  445  —    —    —    —    445  —    —    —    —    —  

Other liabilities

  4,206  4,716  6,732  4,922  4,106  509  4,716  6,732  4,922  4,106  5,333  683

Current income tax liabilities

  —    —    159  38  525  65  —    159  38  525  843  108

Deferred tax liabilities

  —    —    3,686  4,371  7,982  989  —    3,686  4,371  7,982  19,022  2,437

Statutory insurance fund

  1,215  1,337  333  429  98  12  1,337  333  429  98  114  15
                                    

Total liabilities

  466,792  556,842  265,964  366,769  478,410  59,281  556,842  265,964  366,769  478,410  624,190  79,982
                                    

Commitments and contingencies

  —    —    —    —    —    —  

Contingencies and commitments

  —    —    —    —    —    —  

Shareholders’ equity

                   

Share Capital

  4,600  4,600  26,765  26,765  26,765  3,317  4,600  26,765  26,765  26,765  28,265  3,622

Additional paid-in capital

  (137) 113  34,829  35,428  36,538  4,528

Net unrealized gains/(loss)

  2,188  1,317  (778) (3,855) 687  85

Reserves

  1,430  34,051  31,573  37,225  77,368  9,914

Retained earnings/(accumulated loss)

  (245,498) (249,267) 1,620  8,192  16,388  2,031  (249,267) 1,620  8,192  16,388  34,032  4,361
                                    

Total shareholders’ equity

  (238,847) (243,237) 62,436  66,530  80,378  9,960  (243,237) 62,436  66,530  80,378  139,665  17,896
                                    

Minority interests

  163  165  320  372  431  53

Minority interest

  165  320  372  431  540  69
                                    

Total equity

  (238,684) (243,072) 62,756  66,902  80,809  10,013  (243,072) 62,756  66,902  80,809  140,205  17,966
                                    

Total liabilities and equity

  228,108  313,770  328,720  433,671  559,219  69,294  313,770  328,720  433,671  559,219  764,395  97,948
                                    

U.S. GAAP

                   

Total assets

  227,997  313,592  328,720  433,671  559,219  69,294  313,592  328,720  433,671  559,219  764,395  97,948

Total liabilities

  400,293  489,068  265,964  366,769  478,410  59,281  489,068  265,964  366,769  478,410  624,190  79,982

Shareholders’ equity

  (172,459) (175,641) 62,436  66,530  80,378  9,960  (175,641) 62,436  66,530  80,378  139,665  17,896

Exchange Rate Information

We prepare our financial statements in Renminbi. This annual report contains translations of Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars, and U.S. dollars into Renminbi, at RMB 8.07027.8041 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate on December 30, 200529, 2006 in the City of New York for cable transfers as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. You should not assume that Renminbi amounts could actually be converted into U.S. dollars at these rates or at all.

Until July 20, 2005, the People’s Bank of China had set and published daily a base exchange rate with reference primarily to the supply and demand of Renminbi against the U.S. dollar in the market during the prior day. The People’s Bank of China also took into account other factors, such as the general conditions existing in the international foreign exchange markets. From 1994 to July 20, 2005, the official exchange rate for the conversion of Renminbi to U.S. dollars was generally stable. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government introduced a managed floating exchange rate system to allow the value of the Renminbi to fluctuate within a regulated band based on market supply and demand and by reference to a basket of currencies. On the same day, the value of the Renminbi appreciated by 2.0% against the U.S. dollar. Since then, the PRC government has made, and may in the future make, further adjustments to the exchange rate system. The People’s Bank of China announces the closing price of a foreign currency traded against the Renminbi in the inter-bank foreign exchange market after the closing of the market on each working day, and makes it the central parity for the trading against the Renminbi on the following working day.

Although PRC governmental policies were introduced in 1996 to reduce restrictions on the convertibility of Renminbi into foreign currency for current account items, conversion of Renminbi into foreign exchange for capital items, such as foreign direct investments, loans or securities, requires the approval of the State Administration for Foreign Exchange and other relevant authorities.

The Hong Kong dollar is freely convertible into other currencies, including the U.S. dollar. Since October 17, 1983, the Hong Kong dollar has been linked to the U.S. dollar at the rate of HK$7.80 to US$1.00. The central element in the arrangements which give effect to the link is that by agreement between the Hong Kong government and the three Hong Kong banknote issuing banks, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Standard Chartered Bank and the Bank of China, certificates of indebtedness, which are issued by the Hong Kong Government Exchange Fund to the banknote issuing banks to be held as cover for their banknote issues, are issued and redeemed only against payment in U.S. dollars, at the fixed exchange rate of HK$7.80 to US$1.00. When the banknotes are withdrawn from circulation, the banknote issuing banks surrender the certificates of indebtedness to the Hong Kong Government Exchange Fund and are paid the equivalent U.S. dollars at the fixed rate.

The market exchange rate of the Hong Kong dollar against the U.S. dollar continues to be determined by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange market. However, against the background of the fixed rate which applies to the issue of the Hong Kong currency in the form of banknotes, as described above, the market exchange rate has not deviated materially from the level of HK$7.80 to US$1.00 since the link was first established. The Hong Kong government has stated its intention to maintain the link at that rate, and it, acting through the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, has a number of means by which it may act to maintain exchange rate stability. Exchange rates between the Hong Kong dollar and other currencies are influenced by the linked rate between the U.S. dollar and the Hong Kong dollar.

The noon buying rates in The City of New York for cable transfers payable in foreign currencies as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York were US$1.00 to RMB 8.0245RMB7.6835 and US$1.00 to HK$ 7.7562,7.8201, respectively, on May 26, 2006.11, 2007. The following table sets forth the high and low noon buying rates between Renminbi and U.S. dollars and between Hong Kong dollars and U.S. dollars for each of the periods shown:

 

   Noon buying rate
   RMB per US$  HK$ per US$
   High  Low  High  Low

November 2005

  8.0877  8.0796  7.7570  7.7514

December 2005

  8.0808  8.0702  7.7548  7.7516

January 2006

  8.0702  8.0596  7.7571  7.7506

February 2006

  8.0616  8.0415  7.7618  7.7564

March 2006

  8.0505  8.0167  7.7620  7.7570

April 2006

  8.0248  8.0040  7.7598  7.7529

May 2006 (through May 26)

  8.0255  8.0005  7.7567  7.7510
   Noon buying rate
   RMB per US$  HK$ per US$
   High  Low  High  Low

November 2006

  7.8750  7.8303  7.7875  7.7751

December 2006

  7.8350  7.8041  7.7787  7.7665

January 2007

  7.8127  7.7705  7.8112  7.7797

February 2007

  7.7632  7.7410  7.8141  7.8041

March 2007

  7.7454  7.7232  7.8177  7.8093

April 2007

  7.7345  7.7090  7.8212  7.8095

May 2007 (through May 11, 2007)

  7.7065  7.6835  7.8222  7.8180

The following table sets forth the period-end noon buying rates and the average noon buying rates between Renminbi and U.S. dollars and between Hong Kong dollars and U.S. dollars for each of 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 20062007 (through May 26)11, 2007) (calculated by averaging the noon buying rates on the last day of each month of the periods shown):

 

  Period-end noon
buying rate
  Average noon
buying rate
  Period-end noon buying rate  Average noon buying rate
  RMB per US$  HK$ per US$  RMB per US$  HK$ per US$  RMB per US$  HK$ per US$  RMB per US$  HK$ per US$

2001

  8.2766  7.7980  8.2772  7.7996

2002

  8.2800  7.7988  8.2772  7.7996  8.2800  7.7988  8.2772  7.7996

2003

  8.2767  7.7640  8.2771  7.7864  8.2767  7.7640  8.2771  7.7864

2004

  8.2765  7.7723  8.2768  7.7899  8.2765  7.7723  8.2768  7.7899

2005

  8.0702  7.7533  8.1826  7.7755  8.0702  7.7533  8.1826  7.7755

2006 (through May 26)

  8.0245  7.7562  8.0320  7.7567

2006

  7.8041  7.7771  7.9579  7.7685

2007 (through May 11, 2007)

  7.6835  7.8201  7.7256  7.8149

CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

Not Applicable.

REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not Applicable.

RISK FACTORS

Our business, financial condition and results of operations can be affected materially and adversely by any of the following risk factors.

Risks Relating to Our Business

Our growth is dependent on our ability to attract and retain productive agents

A substantial portion of our business is conducted through our individual agents. Because of differences in productivity, a relatively small percentage of our sales agents is responsible for a disproportionately high percentage of our sales of individual products. If we are unable to retain and build on this core group of highly productive agents, our business could be materially and adversely affected. Competition for agents from insurance companies and other business institutions may also force us to increase the compensation of our agents and sales representatives, which would increase operating costs and reduce our profitability. Although we have not had difficulty in attracting and retaining productive agents in the recent past, and do not anticipate any difficulties in the future, we cannot guarantee that this will continue to be the case.

If we are unable to develop other distribution channels for our products, our growth may be materially and adversely affected

Banks and banking operations of post offices are rapidly emerging as some of the fastest growing distribution channels in China. Newly established domestic and foreign-invested life insurance companies have been particularly focusing on banks and banking operations of post offices as one of their main distribution channels. We do not have exclusive arrangements with any of the banks and banking operations of post offices through which we sell insurance and annuity products, and thus our sales may be materially and adversely affected if one or more banks or banking operations of post offices choose to favor our competitors’ products over our own. If we are unable to continue to develop our alternative distribution channels, our growth may be materially and adversely affected.

Agent and employee misconduct is difficult to detect and deter and could harm our reputation or lead to regulatory sanctions or litigation costs

Agent or employee misconduct could result in violations of law by us, regulatory sanctions, litigation or serious reputational or financial harm. Misconduct could include:

 

engaging in misrepresentation or fraudulent activities when marketing or selling insurance policies or annuity contracts to customers;

 

hiding unauthorized or unsuccessful activities, resulting in unknown and unmanaged risks or losses; or

otherwise not complying with laws or our control policies or procedures.

We cannot always deter agent or employee misconduct, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect these activities may not be effective in all cases. We have experienced agent and employee misconduct that has resulted in litigation and administrative actions against us and these agents and employees, and in some cases criminal proceedings and convictions against the agent or employee in question. None of these actions has resulted in material losses, damages, fines or other sanctions against us. We cannot assure you, however, that agent or employee misconduct will not lead to a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

Our business is dependent on our ability to attract and retain key personnel, including senior management, underwriting personnel, actuaries, information technology specialists, investment managers and other professionals

The success of our business is dependent to a large extent on our ability to attract and retain key personnel who have in-depth knowledge and understanding of the life insurance market in China, including members of our senior management, qualified underwriting personnel, actuaries, information technology specialists and experienced investment managers. WeAs of the date of this annual report, we do not carry key personnel insurance for any of these personnel. We compete to attract and retain these key personnel with other life insurance companies and financial institutions, some of which may offer better compensation arrangements. The number of new domestic and foreign-invested insurers is increasing at a significant pace, existing insurers are expanding their operations and the number of other financial institutions is growing. As the insurance and investment businesses continue to expand in China, we expect that competition for these personnel will increase in the future. Although we have not had difficulty in attracting and retaining qualified key personnel in the past, we cannot guarantee that this will continue to be the case. If we were unable to continue to attract and retain key personnel, our financial performance could be materially and adversely affected.

We are Exposed to Changes in Interest Rates

Changes in interest rates may affect our profitability

Our profitability is affected by changes in interest rates. We have experienced a generally low interest rate environment for several years until October 2004, when the interest rate on one-year term deposits was raised from 1.98% to 2.25%. In August 2006 and March 2007, the interest rate on one-year term deposits was further raised from 2.25% to 2.52% and from 2.52% to 2.79%, respectively. Due to China’s recent fast growing economy, the Chinese government may take further measures, including further raising interest rates, in an effort to ensure sustainable economic growth. If interest rates were to further increase in the future, surrenders and withdrawals of insurance and annuity policies and contracts may increase as policyholders seek other investments with higher perceived returns. This process may result in cash outflows requiring that we sell investment assets at a time when the prices of those assets are adversely affected by the increase in market interest rates, which may result in realized investment losses. However, if interest rates were to decline, the income we realize from our investments may decline, affecting our profitability. In addition, as instruments in our investment portfolio mature, we might have to reinvest the funds we receive in investments bearing lower interest rates. We believe that an increase in rates offered by alternative products had an impact on our rates of surrenders and withdrawals in 2005. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Financial Overview of Our Business”.

For many of our long-term life insurance and annuity products, we are obligated to pay a minimum interest or crediting rate to our policyholders or annuitants, which is established when the product is priced. These products expose us to the risk that changes in interest rates may reduce our “spread”, or the difference between the rates that we are required to pay under the policies and the rate of return we are able to earn on our investments intended to support our insurance obligations. Our historical results and financial

position included in this annual report, which present the historical results of CLIC

through September 30, 2003, reflect the continuing performance of policies that were issued prior to June 10, 1999. Many of these policies paid guaranteed fixed rates of return that, due to declining interest rates, came to be significantly higher than the rates of return on investment assets. From 1996 through 2002, the People’s Bank of China made a series of reductions in the interest rates Chinese commercial banks could pay on their deposits. The interest rate on one-year term deposits, a key benchmark rate, was reduced eight times, from 10.98% in April 1996 to 1.98% in February 2002. As a result, CLIC experienced a significant negative spread on its guaranteed rate policies and CLIC’s results of operations continue to be adversely impacted by the effect of those interest rate cuts.

On June 10, 1999, the CIRC reduced to 2.50% the maximum guaranteed rate which life insurance companies could commit to pay on new policies and in response, CLIC adopted new pricing policies which reduced the guaranteed rates on its products to a range of between 1.50% and 2.50%. We also have shifted our mix of products to emphasize products that lessen the impact from interest rate changes, including traditional policies that are not as sensitive to interest rates and participating policies under which our customers receive a portion of our distributable earnings from participating products, as well as products having shorter terms to better match the duration of our investment portfolio. Furthermore, we have made use of the relaxation of investment restrictions applicable to us to diversify our investments. We and CLIC have not incurred negative spread on policies issued since June 10, 1999, as the average investment returns we and CLIC have been able to generate have been higher than their guaranteed rates. However, if the rates of return on our investments fall below the minimum rates we guarantee, our profitability would be materially and adversely affected.

Because of the general lack of long-term fixed income securities in the Chinese capital markets and the restrictions on the types of investments we may make, we are unable to match closely the duration of our assets and liabilities, which increases our exposure to interest rate risk

Like other insurance companies, we seek to manage interest rate risk through managing, to the extent possible, the average duration of our investment assets and the insurance policy liabilities they support. Matching the duration of our assets to their related liabilities reduces our exposure to changes in interest rates, because the effect of the changes largely will be offset against each other. However, restrictions under the PRC insurance law on the asset classes in which we may invest, as well as the limited availability of long-duration investment assets in the markets in which we invest, have resulted in the duration of our assets being shorter than that of our liabilities, particularly with respect to liabilities with durations of more than 20 years.Furthermore, the financial markets currently do not provide an effective means for us to hedge our interest rate risk through financial derivative products. We believe that, with the gradual easing of the investment restrictions imposed on insurance companies in China, our ability to match the duration of our assets to that of our liabilities will improve. We also seek to manage the risk of duration mismatch by focusing on product offerings whose maturity profiles are in line with the duration of investments available to us in the prevailing investment environment. However, until we are able to match more closely the duration of our assets and liabilities, we will continue to be exposed to interest rate changes, which may materially and adversely affect our earnings.

Our Investments are Subject to Risks

We are exposed to potential investment losses if there is an economic downturn in China

Under the current PRC insurance law, we may invest the premiums, deposits and other income we receive only in China, unless and until we are approved to invest overseas with our foreign currency denominated funds. We submitted in January 2005 an applicationobtained approval for the permission of such overseas investment which is pending for the approval of the competent authorities.in November 2006. See “Item 4.

Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Regulation of investments”. In particular, as of December 31, 2005, 33.4%2006, 52.1% of our total investment assets consisted of debt securities including Chinese government bonds, Chinese government agency bonds, Chinese corporate bonds and subordinated bonds and indebtedness; and 25.5% of our total investment assets consisted of term deposits with Chinese banks, and of these deposits, 34.5%35.1% were placed with the four largest state-owned commercial banks. A serious downturn in the Chinese economy may lead to investment losses, which would reduce our earnings. Due to China’s recent fast growing economy, the Chinese government may take certain measures to slow down the economic growth, which could have an adverse impact on our earnings.

We may incur foreign exchange and other losses if we are permitted to investfor our investments denominated in overseas capital markets.foreign currencies

A portion of our investment assets, including the proceeds from our initial public offering in 2003, are held in foreign currencies. We plan to invest, onceare authorized by the CIRC to invest our assets held in foreign currencies in the overseas financial markets as permitted by the CIRC. Thus, our investment results may be subject to foreign exchange risks, as well as the volatility and various other factors of overseas capital markets, including, among others, increase in interest rates, where we do not have previous investment experience. We recorded RMB 639 million (US$7982 million) in foreign exchange losses for the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, resulting from our assets held in foreign currencies, which were affected by the appreciation of the Renminbi. Future movements in the exchange rate of RMB against the U.S. dollar and other foreign currencies may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

Under China’s existing foreign exchange control regulations, the conversion of foreign currencies into the Renminbi requires approval of relevant government agencies. We obtained an approval to settle a portion of our assets held in foreign currencies into the Renminbi in 2005, which partially reduced the foreign exchange risks we are expose to. We did not obtain any approval to settle any portion of our assets held in foreign currencies into the Renminbi in 2006 and there is no guarantee that we will be able to obtain any such approval in the future. If we do not obtain such approval, our ability to manage our foreign exchange risks may be limited. There are few financial products available in China to hedge foreign exchange risks, which substantially limits our ability to manage our foreign exchange risks.

Defaults on our debt investments may materially and adversely affect our profitability

Approximately 51.7%52.1% of our investment assets as of December 31, 20052006 were comprised of debt securities. The issuers whose debt securities we hold may fail to pay or otherwise default on their obligations due to bankruptcy, a lack of liquidity, a downturn in the economy, operational failures or other reasons. Losses due to these defaults could reduce our profitability.

Unless we are permitted to invest in a broader range of asset classes, our ability to improve our rate of investment return will be limited

Our premiums and deposits have grown rapidly during the last three years. As a Chinese life insurance company we are subject to significant restrictions under current PRC insurance law and regulations on the asset classes in which we are permitted to invest. Until 2004, Chinese life insurance companies were allowed to invest their funds only in Chinese bank deposits, government bonds, domestic corporate bonds and securities investment funds. These asset classes historically have yielded a comparatively low return on investment. Since 2004, the investment channels of Chinese life insurance companies have been broadened to permit investment in convertible bonds, specified subordinated indebtedness and bonds issued by qualified commercial banks and insurance companies; overseas investment of foreign currency denominated funds in qualified term deposits, debt securities and shares of Chinese

companies listed on specified overseas stock exchanges; and direct investment in shares of companies listed on the Chinese securities market, which are denominated and traded in Renminbi,Renminbi; and direct investment in equity interest of non-listed commercial Chinese banks, as well as indirect investments in Chinese infrastructure projects, all subject to various limitations. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Regulation of investments”. If the asset classes in which we are permitted to invest do not further expand in the future, we will be limited in our ability to improve our rate of return, which may materially and adversely impact our profitability. Our investment yields decreased for the three years prior to 2004, resulting in a decrease in the amount distributed for our participating products. A further decline in the future could adversely affect the attractiveness of our investment-type products, which compose a large portion of our business.

The PRC securities markets are still emerging markets, which may expose us to risks of loss from our investments there

We had RMB 39,54895,493 million (US$4,90012,236 million) invested in equity securities, including securities investment funds and shares traded on the securities markets in China, as of December 31, 2005.2006. These securities investment funds are primarily invested in equity securities that are issued by Chinese companies and traded on China’s securities exchanges. Some of our investments in securities investment funds are publicly traded, but we also invest in non-publicly traded securities investment funds. Beginning in March 2005, we are also permitted to directly invest in shares traded on the securities markets in China. The PRC securities markets are characterized by companies with relatively small market capitalizations and low trading volumes, and by evolving regulatory, accounting and disclosure requirements. For example, Chinese listed companies are required to adopt the new accounting standards issued by MOF to be effective from January 1, 2007, and the share reform in connection with the conversion of non-tradable state-owned shares into tradable shares is still in progress. This may from time to time result in significant price volatility, unexpected losses or lack of liquidity. These factors could cause us to incur losses on our publicly traded investments. In addition, as one of the largest institutional investors in China, we may from time to time hold significant positions in many securities in which we invest, and any decision to sell or any perception in the market that we are a major seller of a security could adversely affect the liquidity and market price of that security.

Differences in future actual claims results from the assumptions used in pricing and establishing reserves for our insurance and annuity products may materially and adversely affect our earnings

Our earnings depend significantly upon the extent to which our actual claims results are consistent with the assumptions used in setting the prices for our products and establishing the liabilities in our financial statements for our obligations for future policy benefits and claims. Our assumptions include those for investment returns, mortality, morbidity, expenses and persistency, as well as macro-economic factors such as inflation. To the extent that trends in actual claims results are less favorable than our underlying assumptions used in establishing these liabilities, and these trends are expected to continue in the future, we could be required to increase our liabilities. Any such increase could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and, if significant, our financial condition. Any material impairment in our solvency levelmargin could change our customers’ or our business associates’ perception of our financial health, which in turn could adversely affect our sales, earnings and operations.

We establish the liabilities for obligations for future policy benefits and claims based on the expected payout of benefits, calculated through the use of assumptions for investment returns, mortality, morbidity, expenses and persistency, as well as certain macroeconomic factors such as inflation. These assumptions are based on our previous experience, data published by other Chinese life insurers, as well as judgments made by the management. These assumptions may deviate from our actual experience, and,

as a result, we cannot determine precisely the amounts which we will ultimately pay to settle these liabilities or when these payments will need to be made. These amounts may vary from the estimated amounts, particularly when those payments may not occur until well into the future. We evaluate our liabilities periodically, based on changes in the assumptions used to establish the liabilities, as well as on our actual policy benefits and claims results. We record changes in our liabilities in the period the liabilities are established or re-estimated. If the liabilities originally established for future policy benefits prove inadequate, we must increase our liabilities established for future policy benefits, which may have a material adverse effect on our earnings and our financial condition.

We have data available for a shorter period of time than do insurance companies operating in some other countries and, as a result, less claims experience on which to base some of the assumptions used in establishing our reserves. For a discussion of how we establish our assumptions for mortality,

morbidity and lapses, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Critical Accounting Policies—Insurance Claims and Reserves”Policies”. Given the limited nature of this experience, it is possible that our actual claims could vary significantly from the assumptions used.

Our risk management and internal reporting systems, policies and procedures may leave us exposed to unidentified or unanticipated risks, which could materially and adversely affect our businesses or result in losses

Our policies and procedures to identify, monitor and manage risks may not be fully effective. Many of our methods of managing risk and exposures are based upon our use of observed historical market behavior or statistics based on historical models. As a result, these methods may not predict future exposures, which could be significantly greater than what the historical measures indicate. Other risk management methods depend upon the evaluation of information regarding markets, customers or other matters that is publicly available or otherwise accessible to us, which may not always be accurate, complete, up-to-date or properly evaluated. In addition, a significant portion of business information needs to be centralized from our many branch offices. Management of operational, legal and regulatory risks requires, among other things, policies and procedures to record properly and verify a large number of transactions and events, and these policies and procedures may not be fully effective. Failure or the ineffectiveness of these systems could materially and adversely affect our business or result in losses.

We are likely to offer a broader and more diverse range of insurance and investment products in the future as the insurance market in China continues to develop. At the same time, we anticipate that the relaxing of regulatory restraints will result in our being able to invest in a significantly broader range of asset classes. The combination of these factors will require us to continue to enhance our risk management capabilities and is likely to increase the importance of our risk management policies and procedures to our results of operations and financial condition. If we fail to adapt our risk management policies and procedures to our changing business, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected.

Catastrophes could materially reduce our earnings and cash flow

We could in the future experience catastrophic losses that may have an adverse impact on the business, results of operations and financial condition of our insurance business. Catastrophes can be caused by various events, including terrorist attacks, earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, fires and epidemics, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS.

We establish liabilities for claims arising from a catastrophe only after assessing the exposure and damages arising from the event. We cannot be certain that the liabilities we establish after the assessment will be adequate to cover actual claims. We do not currently carry catastrophe reinsurance to reduce our catastrophe exposure. Such an event could have a material adverse effect on us.

Current or future litigation and regulatory procedures could result in financial losses or harm our businesses

Class Action Litigations

Between March 16, 2004China Life and May 14, 2004,certain of its former directors (the “defendants”) have been named in nine putative class action lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against China Lifebetween March 16, 2004 and certain of its officers and directors. TheseMay 14, 2004. The lawsuits were brought on behalf of a class of purchasers of the publicly traded securities of China Life and allege that the defendants named therein violated Section 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (“Exchange Act

Claims”), and Sections 11 and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 by, among other things, omittinghave been ordered to disclose in the prospectus filed in connection with China Life’s December 2003 initial public offering of its stock that the National Audit Office of China was conducting an audit of the predecessor of China Life’s parent, CLIC. The Court ordered that the nine actions be consolidated and restyledIn re China Life Insurance Company Limited Securities Litigation, No.NO. 04 CV 2112 (TPG), and that a consolidated amended complaint be filed.. Plaintiffs filed a consolidated amended complaint on January 19, 2005, which namednames China Life, Wang Xianzhang (former director), Miao Fuchun (former director) and Wu Yan (former director) as defendants. The consolidated amended complaint alleges that the defendants named therein violated Sections 10(b) and asserts only20(a) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act Claims. Defendantsof 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. China Life has engaged U.S. counsel to contest vigorously on the lawsuits. The defendants jointly moved to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint on March 21, 2005. Plaintiffs then further amended their complaint. Defendants moved to dismiss the second amended complaint on November 18, 2005. That motion has been fully briefed and is pending before the Court. The likelihood of an unfavorable outcome is still uncertain. No provision has been made with respect to these lawsuits.

SEC Informal Inquiry

On April 27, 2004, we received an informal inquiry, dated April 26, 2004, from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, requesting us to produce documents and other relevant information on certain matters. The SEC has advised us that the informal inquiry should not be construed as an indication by the SEC or its staff that any violations of law have occurred, or as a reflection upon any person, entity or security. We are continuing to fully cooperate with the SEC’s inquiry.

OtherOthers

We are involved in litigationslitigation involving our insurance operations on an ongoing basis. In addition, the CIRC, as well as other PRC governmental agencies, including tax, commerce and industrial administration and audit bureaus, from time to time make inquiries and conduct examinations or investigations concerning our compliance with PRC laws and regulations. These litigation and administrative proceedings have in the past resulted in damage awards, settlements or administrative sanctions, including fines, which have not been material to us. We currently have control procedures in place to monitor our litigation and regulatory exposure and take appropriate actions against the individuals involved.actions. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal and Regulatory Proceedings”. While we cannot predict the outcome of any pending or future litigation, examination or investigation, we do not believe that any pending legal matter will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. However, we cannot assure you that any future litigation or regulatory proceeding will not have an adverse outcome, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results or cash flows. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal and Regulatory Proceedings”.

In April 2006, the CIRC announced that it will assess the effectiveness of internal controls, as well as regulatory compliance matters relating to business operations, of Chinese life insurance companies, health insurance companies and asset managementpension insurance companies during a three-year period immediately after the announcement, in accordance with the tentative rules on internal control assessment of life insurance companies. The purposes of such assessment were stated to be to facilitate and supervise the companies in order to improve their awareness of, and strengthen their controls over, matters such as corporate governance in management, internal controls, regulatory compliance in operations and risk management. We are among the companies expected to bewere reviewed by the CIRC in 2006.2006 and were found to be in general compliance with rules and regulations of CIRC, other than a small number of breaches by our branches which resulted in us being sanctioned by way of fines, none of which were material. The breaches mainly included improper handling of certain premiums received, which violated relevant CIRC rules and regulations. The fines imposed by CIRC ranged from RMB 20,000 (US$2,563) to RMB 500,000 (US$64,069). All the fines have been paid in full.

The embedded value information we present in this annual report is based on several assumptions and may vary significantly as those assumptions are changed.changed

In order to provide investors with an additional tool to understand our economic value and business results, we have disclosed information regarding our embedded value, as discussed in the section entitled, “Item 8. Financial Information—Embedded Value”. These measures are based on a discounted cash flow valuation determined using commonly applied actuarial methodologies. Standards with respect to the calculation of embedded value are still evolving, however, and there is no single adopted standard for either the form, determination or presentation of the embedded value of an insurance company. Moreover, because of the technical complexity involved in embedded value calculations and the fact that embedded value estimates vary materially as key assumptions are changed, you should read the discussion under the section entitled “Item 8. Financial Information—Embedded Value” in their entirety. You should use special care when interpreting embedded value results and should not place undue reliance on them. See also “Forward-Looking Statements”.

Risks Relating to the PRC Life Insurance Industry

We expect competition in the Chinese insurance industry to increase, which may materially and adversely affect the growth of our business

We face competitive pressures from both domestic and foreign-invested life insurance companies operating in China, as well as from property and casualty insurance companies, which may compete with our accident and short-term health insurance businesses, and other financial institutions that sell other financial investment products in competition with ours. In addition, newly established professional health insurance companies may also lead to greater competition in the health insurance business. If we are not able to adapt to these increasingly competitive pressures in the future, our growth rate may decline, which could materially and adversely affect our earnings.

Competition among domestic life insurance companies is increasing

Our nearest competitors are Ping An Life Insurance Company of China, Ltd., or Ping An, and China Pacific Life Insurance Co. Ltd., or China Pacific Life. Together, Ping An, China Pacific Life and we accounted for more than 81%74% of the individual and group life insurance premiums in China in 2004,2005, the last year for which official market information is available. Each of Ping An and China Pacific Life has operated in the Chinese insurance market for more than ten years, and each has a recognized brand name. Ping An had a greater market share than we did in Beijing and Shanghai in 2004.2005. We also face competition from smaller insurance companies, which may develop strong positions in various regions in which we operate, and new entrants to group life insurance market, including professional pension companies that are being established pursuant to a set of regulations promulgated by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, and new entrants to the health insurance industry, including newly approved and established professional health insurance companies, following adoption by the Chinese government of policies that encourage the development of health insurance and improved health care in China.

Competition from foreign-invested life insurance companies is increasing, as restrictions on their operations in China are relaxed

Foreign-invested life insurance companies are insurance companies in which foreign entities hold at least a 25.0% interest. Until December 11, 2004, foreign-invested life insurance companies were permitted to operate only in specified cities and may not offer

group life insurance, health insurance and annuities or other pension-like products. As a result of these and other restrictions on foreign-invested life insurance companies operating in China, foreign-invested insurers accounted for less than 3% of the nationwide market share of life insurance products in 2004, although some have already have gained significant market shares in the life insurance market in some areas in China. In Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, where foreign-invested insurers have been allowed to operate since 1992, 1995 and 1999, they had respective life insurance market shares of approximately 16%20%, 11%24% and 20%14% in 2004.2005. However, these barriers to foreign insurers’ entry into the Chinese insurance market were phased out as a result of China’s accession to the World Trade Organization, or WTO, in December 2001, which allows foreign insurers to sell health, annuity and group life insurance products nationwide by December 2004. It was reported that due to several large group annuity policies underwritten by Sino-foreign insurance joint ventures for their Chinese investors, the market shares of foreign invested insurance companies increased substantially in 2005. We believe that the relaxation of the restrictions on foreign-invested insurers will continue to increase the competitive pressures we are facing. Foreign-invested life insurance companies, through their Chinese and/or foreign shareholders, may have access to greater financial, technological or other resources than we do.

We are likely to face increasing competition from property and casualty insurance companies and other companies offering products that compete with our own

In addition to competition from life insurance companies, we face competition from other companies that may offer products that compete with our own, including:

 

  

Property and casualty companiescompanies.. Beginning on January 1, 2003, property and casualty insurance companies have been permitted to sell accident and short-term health insurance products, but only with regulatory approval. There were 3436 property and casualty insurers as of December 31, 2004.2006. We believe property and casualty insurers have the competitive advantage of being able to bundle, or cross-sell, accident and health products with the other non-life insurance products that they are currently selling to their existing and potential customers. We believe this will lead to greater competition in the accident

and health insurance sectors, especially for the group accident and short-term health insurance products we offer. On December 30, 2006, we established a property and casualty joint venture, China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited, with CLIC. As this joint venture is newly established, we are unable to determine the impact of the establishment of the joint venture on our sales of accident and short-term health insurance products.

 

  

Mutual fund companies and other financial services providers. We face competition from other financial services providers, primarily licensed mutual fund companies, trust companies and securities brokerage firms licensed to manage separate accounts. Recent changes in Chinese investment regulations relaxing rules on the formation of mutual funds and sales of securities have led to greater availability and variety of financial investment products. These products may prove to be attractive to the public and thereby adversely affect the sale of some products we offer, including participating life insurance policies and annuities.

All of our agents are required to be qualified and to be registered as business entities. If these qualification and registration requirements are enforced or result in policyholders canceling their policies, our business may be materially and adversely affected

Life insurance agents are required to obtain a qualification certificate from the CIRC in order to conduct insurance agency business. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Regulation of Insurance Agencies, Insurance Brokers and Other Intermediaries”. Approximately 21%6% of our individual agents had not obtained such a certificate as of December 31, 2005.2006. In May 2004, the CIRC issued a circular requiring insurance companies to take effective measures in carrying out the qualification certification requirement. In 2005, CIRC agencies in certain provinces had started to enforce the CIRC qualification requirements. Furthermore, in April 2006, the CIRC issued regulations on administration of individual agents, to be effective on July 1, 2006, in order to further strengthen the administration of individual agents. Pursuant to these regulations, insurance companies that retain individual agents without CIRC qualification certificates and underwriting certificates to engage in insurance sales activities will be warned and fined up to RMB 30,000, and the responsible member of senior management of such insurance companies will be warned and fined up to RMB 10,000. In serious circumstances, the CIRC may order the insurance companies to remove the responsible member of senior management from office and reject the application of setting up branch offices by such insurance companies. In addition, we understand that the CIRC may require, in the near future, that every individual agent must wear credentials showing specified information, including whether or not the agent is licensed, when conducting agency business. If more CIRC agencies were to enforce this regulation in the future, and if a substantial number of our agents do not become licensed or qualified, or if a substantial number of our policyholders who bought insurance policies through our unqualified exclusive agents were to cancel the policies because of this regulation, our business may be materially and adversely affected. Moreover, we may be subject to fines and other administrative proceedings for the failure of our insurance agents to obtain the necessary CIRC qualification certificate. Any such fines or administrative proceedings could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Under the PRC insurance law, life insurance agents are required to be registered with and obtain business licenses from the local administrative bureaus of industry and commerce. Historically, this requirement has not been generally enforced, and it is our understanding that the State Administration for Industry and Commerce, or SAIC, does not have procedures in place to effect the registration and licensing of individual insurance agents. Consequently, as we believe it is also the case with other insurance companies operating in China, substantially all of our individual agents are not in compliance with this requirement. To date, this noncompliance has not had a material adverse effect on CLIC or ourselves. The Regulations on the Administration of Insurance Salespersons issued by CIRC in April 2006 do not have such requirement. We do not know whether the local bureaus of the SAIC will enforce this requirement under the PRC insurance law in the future. If it were to be enforced in the future, our agents would be required to register and obtain business licenses. We cannot assure you that all of our agents would obtain such licenses, and the enforcement of

this requirement could adversely affect the composition and effectiveness of our individual agent distribution system, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

The further development of regulations in China may impose additional costs and restrictions on our activities

We operate in a highly regulated industry. The CIRC supervises and administers the insurance industry in China. In exercising its authority, it is given wide discretion to administer the law. China’s insurance regulatory regime is undergoing significant changes toward a more transparent regulatory process and a convergent movement toward international standards. Some of these changes may result in additional costs or restrictions on our activities. Among other things, changes in 2003 to determinations of statutory reserves and solvency requirements have affected adversely our income under PRC GAAP and the amount of capital we are required to maintain. Recent CIRC regulations requiring the submission to CIRC on an annual basis of a newan actuarial report by April 30 of each year, effective January 1, 2006, may further affect the determinations of our statutory reserves and solvency margins and hence our

income under PRC GAAP. In addition, because the terms of our products are subject to regulations, changes in regulations may affect our profitability on the policies and contracts we issue. For instance, under guidelines issued by the CIRC, the dividends on our participating products must be no less than 70% of the distributable earnings from participating products in accordance with CIRC requirements. If this level were to be increased in the future, our profitability could be materially and adversely affected.

Our ability to comply with minimum solvency requirements is affected by a number of factors, and our compliance may force us to raise additional capital, which could be dilutive to our existing investors, or to reduce our growth

We are required by CIRC regulation to maintain our solvency at a level in excess of minimum solvency levels. Our minimum solvency is affected primarily by the policy reserves we are required to maintain which, in turn, are affected by the volume of policies and contracts we sell and by regulations on the determination of statutory reserves. Our solvency is also is affected by a number of other factors, including the profit margin of our products, returns on our investments, underwriting and acquisition costs and policyholder and shareholder dividends. IfOur solvency margin as of December 31, 2006 was approximately 3.5 times the minimum regulatory requirement. Our actual solvency ratio was slightly higher than the acceptable range provided by the CIRC. The increase in our actual solvency ratio was due to the proceeds received from our A share offering. While our solvency margin is above the required level currently, if we continue to grow rapidly in the future, or if the required solvency levelmargin is raised in the future, we may need to raise additional capital to meet our solvency requirement, including through additional issuances of shares, which would be dilutive to our existing investors. If we are not able to raise additional capital, we may be forced to reduce the growth of our business.

Risks Relating to the Restructuring

CLIC has incurred substantial losses on the policies retained by it in the restructuring. If CLIC is unable to meet its obligations to its policyholders, it may seek to increase the level of dividends we pay, sell the China Life shares it owns or take other actions which may have a material adverse effect on the value of the shares our other existing investors own

In connection with the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us (1) all long-term insurance policies (policies having a term of more than one year from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999, having policy terms approved by or filed with the CIRC on or after June 10, 1999 and either (i) recorded as a long-term insurance policy as of June 30, 2003 in a database attached to the restructuring agreement as an annex or (ii) having policy terms for group supplemental medical insurance (fund type), (2) stand-alone short-term policies (policies having a term of one year or less from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999 and (3) all riders supplemental to the policies described in clauses (1) and (2) above, together with the reinsurance contracts specified in an annex to the restructuring agreement. All

other insurance policies were retained by CLIC. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring”. CLIC has incurred substantial losses on these non-transferred policies, primarily because the guaranteed rates it had committed to pay on these policies are higher than the investment return it was able to generate on its investment assets. This negative spread on non-transferred policies created substantial losses for CLIC and a resulting negative net worth. As of September 30, 2003, CLIC’s shareholders’ equity was a deficit of RMB 251,661 million (US$31,184 million). CLIC is expected to continue to incur losses on the retained policies at least for the near term.

In connection with the restructuring, CLIC has established, together with the MOF, a special purpose fund for the purpose of paying claims under the non-transferred policies. The special purpose fund will be funded by investment assets retained by CLIC; renewal premiums paid on the non-transferred policies over time; all of the tax payments made by CLIC, China Life and the asset management joint venture; AMC;

profits from the investments of the special purpose fund; shareholder dividends paid in cash to CLIC by China Life; proceeds from the disposition of China Life shares by CLIC over time; and funds injected by the MOF in the event of a deficiency in the special purpose fund, as described below. The fund is co-administered by CLIC and the MOF. The special purpose fund will be available to satisfy CLIC’s operating expenses, including the payment of benefits and claims obligations arising from the non-transferred policies, as well as expenses incurred in operating the special purpose fund, including third-party management fees and professional fees, and such other purposes as the management committee of the fund may agree. The special purpose fund will be dissolved when all claims and benefits under the non-transferred policies have been paid, or sooner if the management committee so agrees.

The MOF’s approval of the special purpose fund issued to CLIC provides that in the event there is any deficiency in the special purpose fund for so long as the fund is in existence, as described above, to meet any payment obligation arising out of the non-transferred policies, the MOF will provide support through the injection of funds to ensure the payments of benefits and claims to the policyholders of the non-transferred policies. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring—Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets—Insurance policies retained by CLIC”. We have been advised by our PRC legal counsel, King & Wood, that (1) the MOF has the authority to issue this approval regarding the special purpose fund, (2) the approval is valid and effective, and (3) it has no reason to believe that the MOF will revoke the approval. We cannot assure you, however, that a court would decide in a manner consistent with King & Wood’s conclusions.

We cannot predict the amount of funds that will be available to the special purpose fund from CLIC’s own operations to satisfy its obligations to its policyholders as they become due. CLIC’s cash requirements and available cash resources will be affected by several factors which are subject to uncertainty, including prevailing interest rates and the returns on investment generated by CLIC’s assets, as well as the claims, expenses and persistency experience with respect to CLIC’s insurance policies. The cash resources available to CLIC will also depend in part on our profitability, which will affect the amount of our tax payments and hence the amount of refund contributed to the fund, the timing and amount of our dividend payments and the market prices of our shares and ADSs, which will affect the proceeds to CLIC from dispositions of our shares. If it is unable to satisfy its obligations to its policyholders from other sources, CLIC may seek, subject to our articles of association and applicable laws, to increase the amount of dividends we pay in order to satisfy its cash flow requirements. Any such increase in our dividend payments would reduce the funds available for reinvestment in our business. In addition, if we are unable to pay dividends in amounts sufficient to satisfy these requirements, CLIC may seek to sell its shareholdings in us or take other actions in order to satisfy these needs. The sale of these holdings or even the market perception of such a sale may materially and adversely affect the price of our shares.

CLIC does not meet the minimum solvency requirements under CIRC solvency regulations. The CIRC has broad powers under these regulations and the insurance law in the event an insurance company fails to meet its minimum solvency requirements. These may include ordering the sale of the assets or transfer of the insurance business of an insurance company in default under these requirements to a third party and appointing a receiver to take over the management of the insurance company. We believe that, in light of the MOF’s approval described above, it is unlikely that the CIRC will take these actions. However, we cannot assure you that the CIRC will not take actions against CLIC, which could have a material adverse effect on us.

The transfer of policies to us by CLIC and/or the separation of assets between CLIC and us may be subject to challenge

We have been advised by our PRC legal counsel, King & Wood, that (1) the transferred policies have been legally and validly transferred to China Life and (2) following the restructuring, we will not have any continuing obligations to holders of the non-transferred policies who remain policyholders of CLIC and that there is no legal basis on which holders of the non-transferred policies can make a claim against China Life. We also have been advised by King & Wood that, although there is no specific law applicable to restructurings, these conclusions are supported by, among other things, the approval of the restructuring and various related matters by the State Council, the MOF and the CIRC; the support provided by the MOF with respect to the non-transferred policies as described above; and contract and other law. We cannot assure you that policyholders of CLIC, holders of transferred policies or other parties will not seek to challenge the transfer of the transferred policies or the separation of assets occurring as a consequence of the restructuring, or that a court would decide in a manner consistent with King & Wood’s conclusions. If the transfer of policies to us or the separation of assets were challenged successfully, our financial condition and results of operations would likely be materially and adversely affected.

We do not hold exclusive rights to the trademarks in the “China Life” name (in English and Chinese), the “ball” logos and other business related slogans and logos, and CLIC, which owns these trademarks, may take actions that would impair the benefits we derive from their use

We conduct our business under the “China Life” brand name, the “ball” logos and other business related slogans and logos. CLIC owns these trademarks and has registered one of the “ball” logo trademarks in the PRC. CLIC has filed applications to register the trademarks in the “China Life” name (in English and Chinese), the other ball logo and other business related slogans and logosthem with the Trademark Office of the SAIC.CLICSAIC. CLIC has entered into a trademark license agreement with us, under which CLIC has agreed to grant us and our branches a royalty-free license to use these trademarks.

Although CLIC has undertaken in a non-competition agreement with us not to compete with us in China, without our prior consent in writing, in any life, accident and health insurance and any other businesses in China which may compete with our insurance business, CLIC, its subsidiaries and affiliates are permitted to use the brand name and logo in their own businesses, including life insurance business outside China and any other businesses they may enter into in the future within China, including property and casualty (other than businesses that compete with our accident and health businesses) and asset management businesses. In addition, they are not precluded from taking actions that may impair the value of the brand name, which could harm our business. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions —Trademark License Agreement” and “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Non-Competition Agreement”. The China Life brand name and our reputation could be materially harmed if CLIC fails to make payments when due on outstanding policies retained by CLIC in the restructuring or new policies

written by CLIC after the restructuring, if CLIC reduces the rates of return payable on policies retained by CLIC or if CLIC is placed into receivership.

As our controlling shareholder, CLIC will be able to exert influence on our affairs and could cause us to make decisions or enter into transactions that may not be in your best interests

We are controlled by CLIC, whose interests may conflict with those of our other shareholders. As at the date of this annual report,April 30, 2007, CLIC holds 72.2%68.4% of our share capital. As a result of these factors, CLIC, which is wholly-owned by the PRC government, will, so long as it holds the majority of our shares, effectively be able to control the composition of our board of directors and, through the board, exercise a significant influence over our management and policies. In addition, subject to our articles of association and applicable laws, CLIC may, so long as it holds the majority of our shares, effectively be able to determine the timing and amount of our dividend payments and approve increases or decreases of our share capital, the issuance of new securities, amendments of our articles of association, mergers and acquisitions and other major corporate transactions. CLIC may also be able to prevent us effectively from taking actions to enforce or exercise our rights under agreements to which we are a party, including the agreements we entered into

with CLIC in connection with the restructuring. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions”. As majority shareholder, CLIC may be able to take these actions without your approval. In addition, CLIC’s control could have the effect of deterring hostile takeovers or delaying or preventing changes in control or changes in management that might be desirable to other shareholders.

CLIC may direct business opportunities elsewhere

CLIC has other business interests, including the run-off of the insurance policies retained by it in the restructuring. Notwithstanding a general undertaking pursuant to a non-competition agreement with us not to compete with us in our principal areas of business in China, CLIC is permitted to sell riders to these retained policies and enter into other businesses, including life insurance businesses outside of China and property and casualty (other than businesses that compete with our accident and health businesses) and asset management businesses, both inside and outside of China. We plan to formformed a property and casualty joint venture with CLIC, in connection with which we granted a waiver to CLIC allowing it to engage in accident and short-term health businesses indirectly through the property and casualty joint venture with us. CLIC is also is engaged in the life insurance business in Shanghai through its joint venture with Colonial Mutual Group, an Australian financial services company, of which CLIC owns 51.0% and which CLIC has agreed to dispose of prior to December 18, 2006. As of the date of this annual report, the transfer of CLIC’s equity interest in this joint venture is still ongoing. It also may engage in insurance business in other regions outside China in the future. Although it is required under the non-competition agreement to give us a right of first refusal over any business opportunities it develops in these areas, we may not be in a position to take advantage of these opportunities at that time, which could harm our business. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Non-Competition Agreement”.

In addition, while we provide policy administration and other services to CLIC for the policies retained by CLIC in the restructuring, and provide investment management services to CLIC through our asset management subsidiary, these agreements can be terminated with notice or upon expiration in a limited number of years. If CLIC were to terminate its policy administration and asset management arrangements with us and our asset management subsidiary respectively, our loss of fees could materially and adversely affect us.

Our historical financial information includes the results of the businesses retained by CLIC, and thus is not indicative of our future results

Our consolidated financial statements present the results of the insurance polices and assets transferred to us in the restructuring, as well as, through September 30, 2003, the assets, liabilities and operations retained by CLIC. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Overview—Restructuring” and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Operating Results”. As a result, they will not necessarily be indicative of our future earnings, cash flows or financial position as an independent company. Historical performance is not necessarily representative of our financial results for any future periods.

As a newly established independent entity, we face additional uncertainties in our management, business and operations

Prior to our restructuring, the insurance policies and assets transferred to us were owned and operated by CLIC, a state-owned enterprise. Most of our current executive officers are former officers and employees of CLIC who have limited experience in operating an independent, publicly traded company or in carrying out the arrangements under our restructuring and related agreements. Our current management structure and management information systems may need further adjustments and development to meet the challenges of a public company.

Risks Relating to the People’s Republic of China

China’s economic, political and social conditions, as well as government policies, could affect our business

Substantially all of our assets are located in China and substantially all of our revenues are derived from our operations in China. Accordingly, our results of operations and prospects are subject, to a significant degree, to economic, political and legal developments in China. The economy of China differs from the economies of most developed countries in many respects, including:

 

the extent of government involvement;

 

its level of development;

 

its growth rate; and

 

its control of foreign exchange.

The economy of China has been transitioning from a planned economy to a more market-oriented economy. Although in recent years the Chinese government has implemented measures emphasizing the utilization of market forces for economic reform, the reduction of state ownership of productive assets and the establishment of sound corporate governance in business enterprises, a substantial portion of productive assets in China is still owned by the Chinese government. In addition, the Chinese government continues to play a significant role in regulating industrial development. It also exercises significant control over China’s economic growth through the allocation of resources, controlling payment of foreign currency-denominated obligations, setting monetary policy and providing preferential treatment to particular industries or companies.

While China’s economy has experienced significant growth in the past twenty years, growth has been uneven across both geographic regions and the various sectors of the economy. The Chinese

government has implemented various measures to encourage economic growth and guide the allocation of resources. Some of these measures benefit the overall economy of China but may have a negative effect on us. For example, our operating results and financial condition could be materially and adversely affected by government monetary policies, changes in interest rate polices, tax regulations or policies and regulations affecting the securities markets and asset management industry. In addition, due to China’s recent fast growing economy, the Chinese government is expected to take certain measures to slow down economic growth. For example, in October 2004, the interest rate on one-year term deposits, a key benchmark rate, was raised from 1.98% to 2.25%. In August 2006 and March 2007, the interest rate on one-year term deposits was further raised from 2.25% to 2.52% and from 2.52% to 2.79% respectively. A slowdown in Chinese growth rates could adversely affect us by impacting sales of our products, reducing our investment returns, or otherwise.

The PRC legal system has inherent uncertainties that could limit the legal protections available to you

We are organized under the laws of China and are governed by our articles of association. The Chinese legal system is based on written statutes. Prior court decisions may be cited for reference but are not binding on subsequent cases and have limited precedential value. Since 1979, the Chinese legislative bodies have promulgated laws and regulations dealing with such economic matters as foreign investment, corporate organization and governance, commerce, taxation and trade. However, because these laws and regulations are relatively new, and because of the limited volume of published decisions and their non-binding nature, the interpretation and enforcement of these laws and regulations involve uncertainties.

Holders of H shares and ADSs generally are required to resolve disputes with us, our senior management and holders of our domesticA shares only through arbitration in Hong Kong or China

In accordance with the rules applicable to Chinese overseas listed companies, our articles of association provide that, with certain limited exceptions, all disputes or claims based on our articles of association, PRC company law or other relevant laws or administrative rules, and concerning matters between holders of H shares and holders of domesticA shares, us, or our directors, supervisors, president, vice presidents or other senior officers, must be submitted for arbitration at either the China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission or the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre.Center. If an applicant chooses to have the dispute arbitrated at the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre,Center, either party may request that the venue be changed to Shenzhen, a city in China near Hong Kong. The governing law for any such disputes or claims is Chinese law, unless Chinese law itself provides otherwise. Pursuant to an arrangement of mutual enforcement of arbitration awards between the PRC courts and the Hong Kong courts, Hong Kong arbitration awards are enforceable in China. However, to our knowledge, no action has been brought in China by any holder of shares issued by a Chinese company to enforce an arbitral award. As a result, we are uncertain as to the outcome of any action brought in China to enforce an arbitral award made in favor of holders of H shares.

The laws in China differ from the laws in the United States and may afford less protection to our minority shareholders

Unlike laws in the United States, the applicable laws of China did not specifically allow shareholders to sue the directors, supervisors, officers or other shareholders on behalf of the company to enforce a claim against these parties that the company has failed to enforce itself until January 1, 2006, when the amendments to Chinese company law passed in 2005 became effective. Although the amended Chinese company law provides that shareholders, under certain circumstances, may sue the directors, supervisors and senior management on behalf of the company, no detailed implementation rules or court interpretations have been issued in this regard. Also, class action lawsuits are generally not available in China. In addition, PRC company law imposes limited obligations on a controlling shareholder with respect to protection of minority shareholders, although overseas listed joint stock companies, such as

ourselves, are required to adopt certain provisions in their articles of association that are designed to protect minority shareholder rights. These mandatory provisions provide, among other things, that the rights of any class of shares, including H shares, may not be varied without a resolution approved by holders of shares in the affected class holding not less than two-thirds of the shares of the affected class entitled to vote, and provide that in connection with a merger or division involving our company, a dissenting shareholder may require us or the consenting shareholders to purchase the dissenters’ shares at a fair price. Disputes arising from these protective provisions would likely have to be resolved by arbitration. See “—Holders of H shares and ADSs generally are required to resolve disputes with us, our senior management and holders of our domesticA shares only through arbitration in Hong Kong or China”.

You may experience difficulties in effecting service of legal process, enforcing foreign judgments or bringing original actions in the PRC based on U.S. or other foreign laws against us, our management and some of the experts named in the annual report

We are a company incorporated under the laws of China, and substantially all of our assets are located in China. In addition, most of our directors, supervisors, executive officers and some of the experts named in this annual report reside within China, and substantially all of the assets of these persons are located within China. As a result, it may not be possible to effect service of process within the United States or elsewhere outside China upon our directors, supervisors or executive officers or some of the experts named in this annual report, including with respect to matters arising under U.S. federal securities laws or applicable state securities laws. Moreover, our Chinese counsel, King & Wood, has advised us that China does not have treaties providing for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments of courts with the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan or many other countries. Our Hong Kong legal adviser, Allen & Overy, has also advised us that Hong Kong has no statutory arrangement for the reciprocal enforcement of judgments with the United States although it may be possible for a civil action to be brought in Hong Kong based on a monetary judgment of the courts of the United States. As a result, recognition and enforcement in China or Hong Kong of judgments of a court in the United States and any of the other jurisdictions mentioned above in relation to any matter may be difficult or impossible. Furthermore, an original action may be brought in the PRC against us, our directors, supervisors, executive officers or the experts named in this annual report only if the actions are not required to be arbitrated by PRC law and our articles of association, and only if the facts alleged in the complaint give rise to a cause of action under PRC law. In connection with any such original action, a PRC court may award civil liability, including monetary damages.

Holders of H shares may be subject to PRC taxation

Under the PRC’s current tax laws, regulations and rulings, dividends paid by us to holders of H shares outside the PRC currently are exempted from PRC income tax. In addition, gains realized by individuals or enterprises upon the sale or other disposition of H shares currently are exempted from PRC income tax. If the exemptions are withdrawn in the future, holders of H shares may be required to pay withholding taxes on dividends, which are currently imposed at the rate of 20%, or capital gains tax, which currently may be imposed upon individuals at the rate of 20%. See “Item 10. Additional Information—Taxation—The People’s Republic of China”.

Government control of currency conversion and the fluctuation of the Renminbi may materially and adversely affect our operations and financial results

We receive substantially all of our revenues in Renminbi, which currently is not a freely convertible currency. A portion of these revenues must be converted into other currencies to allow us to make payments on declared dividends, if any, on our H shares.

Under China’s existing foreign exchange regulations, we are able to pay dividends in foreign currencies without prior approval from the State Administration of Foreign Exchange by complying with various procedural requirements. The Chinese government, however, may, at its discretion, restrict access in the future to foreign currencies for current account transactions. If this were to occur, we may not be able to pay dividends in foreign currencies to our shareholders, including holders of our ADSs.

The value of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar and other currencies fluctuates and is affected by, among other things, changes in China’s political and economic conditions. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government introduced a managed floating exchange rate system to allow the value of the Renminbi to fluctuate within a regulated band based on market supply and demand and by reference to a basket of currencies. On the same day, the value of the Renminbi appreciated by 2.0% against the U.S. dollar. Since then, the PRC government has made, and may in the future make, further adjustments to the exchange rate system. The People’s Bank of China announces the closing price of a foreign currency traded against the Renminbi in the inter-bank foreign exchange market after the closing of the market on each working day, and makes it the central parity for the trading against the Renminbi on the following working day. From July 21, 2005 to May 11, 2007, the Renminbi has appreciated by approximately 7.72%. We had approximately RMB 639 million (US$7982 million) foreign exchange losses for the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, resulting from our assets held in foreign currencies, which were affected by the appreciation of the Renminbi. Any devaluation of the Renminbi, on the other hand, may materially and adversely affect the value of, and any dividends payable on, our H shares in foreign currency terms, since we will receive substantially all of our revenues, and express our profits, in Renminbi. Our financial condition and results of operations also may be affected by changes in the value of certain currencies other than the Renminbi.

Payment of dividends is subject to restrictions under Chinese law

Under Chinese law, dividends may be paid only out of distributable profits. Distributable profits means our after-tax profits as determined under PRC GAAP or HKFRS, whichever is lower, less any recovery of accumulated losses and allocations to statutory funds that we are required to make. Any distributable profits that are not distributed in a given year are retained and available for distribution in subsequent years. However, ordinarily we will not pay any dividends in a year in which we do not have any distributable profits.

The calculation of distributable profits for an insurance company under PRC GAAP differs in many respects from the calculation under HKFRS. As a result, we may not be able to pay any dividend in a given year if we do not have distributable profits as determined under PRC GAAP, even if we have profits for that year as determined under HKFRS. A strengthening in the statutory reserve requirements applicable to life insurance companies operating in China, which came into effect on December 31, 2003,

led to a one-time adjustment to our PRC GAAP earnings in 2003. Payment of dividends by us is also regulated by the PRC insurance law. See “Item 8. Financial Information—Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information—Policy on Dividend Distributions”.

 

ITEM 4.INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY.

HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

We were formed as a joint stock company pursuant to the PRC company law on June 30, 2003 under the corporate name ofLOGOLOGO in connection with the restructuring.

On November 23, 2003, we established an asset management joint venture withGeneral Information

Our principal executive offices are located at 16 Chaowai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100020, China. Our telephone number is (86-10) 8565-9999. Our website address is www.e-chinalife.com. The information on our predecessor, CLIC,website is not a part of this annual report. We have appointed CT Corporation System at 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10011 as our agent for service of process in connection with the restructuring. The asset management joint venture manages our investment assets and, separately, substantially all of those of CLIC.United States.

We incurred capital expenditures of RMB 1,098 million (US$136 million), RMB 1,063 million and RMB 2,285 million in 2005, 2004 and 2003. These capital expenditures mainly comprised the addition of buildings. In March 2006, we entered into a promoters agreement with CLIC and our asset management joint venture for the formation of a professional pension company, under which we, CLIC and the asset management joint venture agreed to subscribe for 25%, 55% and 20% of its proposed total registered capital of RMB 600 million, respectively. Also in March 2006, we entered into a share subscription agreement with CLIC for the formation of a property and casualty company, under which we and CLIC agreed to subscribe for 40% and 60% of its proposed registered capital of RMB 1,000 million, respectively.

Our Restructuring

Restructuring Plan and Governmental Approval

Upon the approval of the State Council and the CIRC, we were formed on June 30, 2003 as a joint stock company in connection with the restructuring by CLIC, our sole owner. The restructuring was effected through a plan of restructuring, which was approved by the CIRC on August 21, 2003, and a restructuring agreement we entered into with CLIC on September 30, 2003, with retroactive effect to June 30, 2003, which we refer to in this annual report as the effective date. Pursuant to PRC law and the restructuring agreement, we enjoyed the rights and benefits and assumed the obligations and liabilities arising from the restructuring from and after the effective date.

In connection with the restructuring:

 

CLIC transferred to us (1) all long-term insurance policies (policies having a term of more than one year from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999, having policy terms approved by or filed with the CIRC on or after June 10, 1999 and either (i) recorded as a long-term insurance policy as of June 30, 2003 in a database attached to the restructuring agreement as an annex or (ii) having policy terms for group supplemental medical insurance (fund type), (2) stand-alone short-term policies (policies having a term of one year or less from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999 and (3) all riders supplemental to the policies described in clauses (1) and (2) above, together with the applicable reinsurance contracts specified in an annex to the restructuring agreement. We refer to these policies in this annual report as the “transferred policies”. All other insurance policies were retained by CLIC. We refer to these policies as the “non-transferred policies”. We assumed all obligations and liabilities of CLIC under the transferred policies. CLIC continues to be responsible for its liabilities and obligations under the non-transferred policies following the effective date. See “—Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets”.

Cash, specified investment assets and various other assets were transferred to us. CLIC retained cash, specified investment assets and various other assets, including all assets relating to the non-insurance businesses carried out by CLIC prior to the restructuring. See “—Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets”.

 

CLIC agreed not to, directly or indirectly through its subsidiaries and affiliates, participate, operate or engage in life, accident and health insurance businesses and any other business in China which may compete with our insurance business. CLIC also undertook (1) to refer to us any corporate business opportunity that falls within our business scope and which may directly or indirectly compete with our business and (2) to grant us a right of first refusal, on the same terms and conditions, to purchase any new business developed by CLIC. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Non-Competition Agreement”.

business developed by CLIC. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Non-Competition Agreement”.

 

Substantially all of the management personnel and employees who were employed by CLIC in connection with the transferred assets and businesses were transferred to us. Some management and personnel remained with CLIC. See “—Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets”.

 

CLIC retained the trademarks used in our business, including the “China Life” name in English and Chinese and the “ball” logos, and granted us and our branches a royalty-free license to use these trademarks. CLIC and its subsidiaries and affiliates will be entitled to use these trademarks, but CLIC may not license or transfer these trademarks to any other third parties. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Trademark License Agreement”.

 

CLIC’s contracts with its agents and other intermediaries were transferred to us. See “—Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets”.

 

We entered into various agreements under which we provide policy administration services to CLIC for the non-transferred policies, manage CLIC’s investment assets and lease office space from CLIC for our branch and field offices. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions”.

The net assets transferred to us had a carrying value at June 30, 2003 of RMB 29,608 million, as determined under PRC valuation regulations. This is equivalent to RMB 36,182 million, as determined under HKFRS. In consideration of this transfer, and pursuant to an approval issued by the MOF in 2003, we issued 20,000,000,000 domestic shares comprising the entire registered and paid-up capital of our company. As of the date of this annual report, CLIC owned approximately 72.2%68.4% of our issued share capital.

CLIC has committed to pay some of its retired employees a pension supplement through December 31, 2007. The present value of the aggregate estimated future payments to be made by CLIC, amounting to RMB 185 million, has been recognized as an expense to CLIC and a corresponding capital contribution to China Life in the 2003 financial statements. Payments made to similar former employees during the three-year period ended December 31, 2002 were expensed as paid. The amounts paid were RMB 51 million in 2000, RMB 55 million in 2001, RMB 56 million in 2002 and RMB 23 million in 2003. Obligations relating to these retired employees were retained by CLIC. Accordingly, these payments will be the responsibility of CLIC following the restructuring under the restructuring agreement entered into between CLIC and us.

Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets

In connection with the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us the transferred policies. The non-transferred policies were retained by CLIC. We assumed all obligations and liabilities of CLIC under the transferred policies. CLIC continues to be responsible for its liabilities and obligations under the non-transferred policies following the effective date.

We chose June 10, 1999 as the date for the separation between the transferred policies and the non-transferred policies because CLIC adopted new pricing policies as an immediate response to an emergency notice issued by the CIRC on June 10, 1999, as more fully described below:

 

The CIRC was established as the industry regulator in 1998. The People’s Bank of China was the industry regulator prior to the CIRC’s establishment.

 

Immediately prior to June 10, 1999, the pre-determined rate of all policies sold by CLIC was 5.00%. The maximum pre-determined rate which life insurance companies could commit to pay on policies was 5.00%, as set by the People’s Bank of China, the insurance regulator at the time.

 

These events were set against the background of low and declining investment returns available to life insurance companies in the PRC at the time. The interest rate on one-year term deposits, a key benchmark rate, was 2.25% on June 10, 1999.

 

To address the systemic risks to the industry arising from the “negative spread” problem (high pre-determined rates on policies against low investment return), the CIRC issued an emergency notice on June 10, 1999 whereby the maximum pre-determined rate which life insurance companies could commit to pay on new policies was reduced to 2.50% per annum.

 

To comply with the requirements of the CIRC’s emergency notice, CLIC ceased to sell policies filed with or approved by the People’s Bank of China or the CIRC before June 10, 1999, and from then onwards started to sell new policies with pre-determined rates which were equal to or below 2.50% in the new industry environment.

The change in pricing policy made by CLIC on June 10, 1999 as an immediate response to the emergency notice issued by CIRC, differentiates the transferred policies and the non-transferred policies.

In connection with the restructuring, CLIC’s assets as at June 30, 2003 were divided between CLIC and ourselves in accordance with the restructuring agreement entered into between CLIC and ourselves. Premiums receivable were allocated to the transferred and non-transferred policies based on the specific policies to which they relate. Property, plant and equipment and other operating assets were allocated based on the terms of the restructuring agreement. Investments in respect of participating policies were allocated to the transferred policies, since all participating business has been transferred. Unlisted equity securities and investment properties were allocated to CLIC. The remaining investment assets, including term deposits, debt securities, equity securities, repurchase agreements and cash and cash equivalents, were allocated so as to ensure that the book value of China Life as of June 30, 2003 was RMB 29,608 million, as determined under PRC valuation regulations. This is equivalent to RMB 36,182 million as determined under HKFRS, due to differences between PRC GAAP and HKFRS. The proportions of each of these classes of assets allocated to CLIC and ourselves were similar.

Insurance policies

Under the plan of restructuring, on the effective date, CLIC transferred to us the transferred policies.

We have been advised by our PRC legal counsel, King & Wood, that: (1) the transferred policies have been legally and validly transferred to us and (2) following the restructuring we will not have any continuing obligations to holders of the non-transferred policies and that there is no legal basis on which holders of the non-transferred policies can make a claim against China Life. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the Restructuring”.

Investment and other business assets

In the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us cash and investment assets, various intellectual property rights and various other business assets, including the software system for operating our business. CLIC retained cash and specified investment assets, as well as assets relating to the non-core, non-insurance business carried out by CLIC prior to the restructuring.

For information about CLIC’s investment assets and the investment assets that were transferred to us in connection with the restructuring, see “—Business Overview—Investments”.

Investment assets

All investment assets in respect of participating policies were transferred to us, since all participating business has been transferred to us. The remaining investment assets, including term deposits, fixed maturity securities, equity securities, repurchase agreements and cash and cash equivalents, but excluding unlisted equity securities and investment properties which were retained by CLIC, were allocated between CLIC and ourselves so as to ensure that the book value of China Life as of June 30, 2003 was RMB 29,608 million, as determined under PRC valuation regulations. The proportions of each of these classes of assets allocated to CLIC and ourselves were similar.

Real properties

In connection with the restructuring, land use rights relating to 2,978 parcels of land with an aggregate site area of approximately 3,145,000 m2 were transferred to us.

In addition, 3,443 completed buildings, including our headquarters in Beijing, and various ancillary structures, with an aggregate total gross floor area of approximately 3,997,000 m2, and 65 buildings and structures which were under construction, with an aggregate total gross floor area of approximately 350,000 m2 upon completion, were transferred to us. Of the 3,443 buildings, 372 properties with an aggregate gross floor area of approximately 66,800 m2 were leased to independent third parties.

Receivables, chattels, etc.

Accounts receivable associated with the transferred policies and other accounts receivable which accrued on or after June 30, 1999 and which remained on the books as of June 30, 2002, as well as specified deferred assets, prepaid expenses, low cost consumables and other assets as of the same date, were transferred to us.

Intellectual property and business assets

The following intellectual property and business assets were transferred to us:

 

All original and duplicate policies, business records, financial and accounting records, business data, statistical information, training manuals, technical records, information, data, know-how and manuals and research and development information relating to the businesses constituted by the transferred policies.

All of CLIC’s rights and licenses relating to software used in its insurance businesses, including its core business processing system, customer service center system, comprehensive inquiry system, individual agency management system, customer support system, accounting and financial management system, participating policy monitoring system, analysis system, business file imaging system and individual agency marketing support system.

system, accounting and financial management system, participating policy monitoring system, analysis system, business file imaging system and individual agency marketing support system.

 

All permits, licenses, approvals, certificates, authorizations and other like instruments related to the operation of the assets transferred to us.

 

All claims, rights to setoff, cause of action and similar rights held by CLIC against third parties arising from the transferred assets and policies.

Insurance agency contracts

As of June 30, 2003, CLIC had agency contracts with approximately 650,000 individual agents and other insurance agencies. CLIC has transferred to us all of its rights and obligations under these contracts. The restructuring agreement provides that commissions due under these contracts in connection with the transferred polices, the accrued amount of which was RMB 1,098 million as of June 30, 2003, will be borne by us, and commissions due in connection with non-transferred policies, the accrued amount of which was RMB 40 million as of June 30, 2003, will be borne by CLIC.

Assumed liabilities

We assumed the future benefit liabilities relating to the transferred policies.

In addition, the accounts payable and other accounts payable incurred on or after June 30, 1999 associated with the transferred policies were transferred to us, and those associated with the non-transferred policies were retained by CLIC.

CLIC previously entered into securities repurchase agreements in connection with the management of its investment assets. See “—Business Overview—Investments”. We assumed a portion of CLIC’s obligations to repurchase securities sold to third parties under these repurchase agreements.

Management personnel and employees

CLIC transferred approximately 67,000 employees to us, including approximately 9,000 management personnel.

We did not assume any obligations for the welfare benefits of the employees retained by CLIC and of the transferred employees for any period while they were employed by CLIC. These obligations, including obligations in respect of some employees whose employment contracts were terminated or who were asked to retire prior to the restructuring in exchange for these benefits, will be borne by CLIC and are not our obligations.

Assets retained by CLIC

CLIC retained the remaining assets it held at the time of the restructuring. These include:

 

Specified fixed assets and intangible assets, including real properties with associated land use rights and the trademarks in the “China Life” name (in English and Chinese) and the “ball” logos.

Accounts receivable and other receivables accrued before June 30, 1999 or accrued after June 30, 1999 and associated with the non-transferred policies or other businesses retained by CLIC. CLIC also retained a portion of the assets associated with construction-in-progress projects.

 

Assets relating to CLIC’s non-core, non-insurance businesses (principally investments in property, hotels and other operations through subsidiaries).

Insurance policies retained by CLIC

CLIC has incurred substantial losses on these non-transferred policies, primarily because the pre-determined rates built into these policies and hence the implied rates at which CLIC was obligated to pay or accrue reserves on these policies are higher than the investment return it was able to generate on its investment assets. See “—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Regulation of insurance and annuity products generally”. This outcome, which has been experienced by other major life insurers in China, is called a “negative spread”. From 1996 to 1999, the central bank of China made several cuts in interest rates, reducing the income CLIC was able to generate on its investment assets to below the guaranteed rate it was required to pay on its policies. In 1999, the CIRC reduced the maximum guaranteed rate insurers were allowed to pay and, as a result, CLIC has not experienced a “negative spread” on policies issued thereafter.

Shareholders’ equity of our predecessor, CLIC, was a deficit of RMB 251,661 million (US$31,184 million) as of September 30, 2003 and a deficit of RMB 243,237 million as of December 31, 2002. The net losses incurred by our predecessor were RMB 5,925 million (US$734 million) for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and RMB 4,706 million and RMB 3,525 million for 2001 and 2002, respectively. These losses were attributable to losses incurred by our predecessor on policies retained by CLIC in the restructuring, which have offset the profitability of the policies transferred to us.

In connection with the restructuring, CLIC has established, together with the MOF, a special purpose fund for the purpose of paying claims under the non-transferred policies. The special purpose fund will be funded by investment assets retained by CLIC; renewal premiums paid on the non-transferred policies over time; a portion of the tax payments made by China Life under the tax rebate mechanism described below; profits from the investments of the special purpose fund; shareholder dividends paid in cash to CLIC by China Life; proceeds from the disposition of China Life shares by CLIC over time; and funds injected by the MOF in the event of a deficiency in the special purpose fund, as described below. The special purpose fund is co-administered by CLIC and the MOF. The special purpose fund will be available to satisfy CLIC’s operating expenses, including the payment of benefits and claims obligations arising from the non-transferred policies, as well as expenses incurred in operating the special purpose fund, including third-party management fees and professional fees, and such other purposes as the management committee of the fund may agree. A management committee comprised of three representatives from the Ministry of FinanceMOF and three representatives from CLIC oversees the management of the fund, with specified material items subject to the approval of the MOF. The special purpose fund will be dissolved when all claims and benefits under the non-transferred policies have been paid, or sooner if the management committee so agrees.

The MOF’s approval of the special purpose fund issued to CLIC provides that in the event there is any deficiency in the special purpose fund for so long as the fund is in existence as described above to meet any payment obligation arising out of the non-transferred policies, the MOF will provide support through the injection of funds to ensure the payments of benefits and claims to the policyholders of the non-transferred policies. We have been advised by our PRC legal counsel, King & Wood, that (1) the

MOF has the authority to issue this approval regarding the special purpose fund, (2) the approval is valid and effective and (3) it has no reason to believe that the MOF will revoke the approval.

In accordance with generally applicable tax laws and regulations, CLIC, ourselvesAMC and the asset management joint venture formed with CLICourselves will file income tax returns and pay our respective income taxes as separate and independent taxpayers. According to a circular issued by the MOF, all of the income tax payments made by CLIC and us during the period of January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2010 will be rebated to CLIC. All of the income tax payments made by the asset management joint ventureAMC may also be rebated to CLIC, if the current shareholding structure of the asset management joint ventureAMC remains unchanged. This tax rebate policy is different from the tax rebate mechanism we expected to be approved at the time of our IPO in 2003, and indicates MOF’s strong support to CLIC.

CLIC does not meet the minimum solvency requirements under CIRC solvency regulations. The CIRC has broad powers under these regulations and the insurance law in the event an insurance company fails to meet its minimum solvency requirements. These may include ordering the sale of the assets or transfer of the insurance business of an insurance company in default of these requirements to a third party and appointing a receiver to take over the management of the insurance company. See “—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Solvency requirements”. We believe that, in light of the MOF approval described above, it is unlikely that the CIRC will take these actions. However, we cannot assure you that the CIRC will not take actions against CLIC, which could have a material adverse effect on us.

We have been advised by our PRC legal counsel, King & Wood, that following the restructuring we will not have any continuing obligations to holders of the non-transferred policies and that there is no legal basis on which holders of the non-transferred policies can make a claim against China Life. King & Wood based its conclusion on, among other things, the following factors: (1) after the restructuring, China Life was established as a separate legal entity and China Life’s assets and liabilities should be regarded as distinct and separate from those of CLIC; (2) there is no contractual relationship, direct or indirect, between the holders of the non-transferred policies and China Life; (3) the restructuring (including the transfer of the transferred policies to China Life) has been approved by the CIRC and has been conducted without infringing upon the rights of the holders of non-transferred policies; (4) the arrangements made under the restructuring agreement, in particular the MOF’s support as described above, are expected to enable CLIC to satisfy its obligations under the non-transferred policies; and (5) PRC regulatory authorities have no legal power to direct China Life to assume CLIC’s obligations under the non-transferred policies or to indemnify the holders of the non-transferred policies.

See “Item 3. Key Information—Information — Risk Factors—Factors — Risks Relating to the Restructuring”.

Developments After Restructuring

On November 23, 2003, we established an asset management joint venture, AMC, with our predecessor, CLIC, in connection with the restructuring. AMC manages our investment assets and, separately, substantially all of those of CLIC. On December 30, 2006, we established a property and casualty joint venture, China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited, with CLIC. On January 15, 2007, we established a pension insurance joint venture, China Life Pension Company Limited, with CLIC and AMC.

In December 2003, we successfully completed our initial public offering of H shares, including H shares in the form of American depositary shares, or ADSs, and raised approximately RMB 24,707 million in aggregate net proceeds for us. Upon completion of our initial public offering, our H shares became listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and ADSs each representing 40 of our H shares became listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The ratio of ADSs to H shares was reduced from 40 H shares to 15 H shares on December 29, 2006.

General InformationIn December, 2006, we issued 1,500,000,000 new ordinary domestic shares through public offering on the SSE at the offer price of RMB 18.88 per share, raising RMB 28,320 million. The A shares have been listed on the SSE since January 9, 2007.

Our principal executive offices are located at 16 Chaowai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100020, China. Our telephone number is (86-10) 8565-9999. Our website address is www.e-chinalife.com.We incurred capital expenditures of RMB 1,750 million (US$224 million), RMB 1,098 million and RMB 1,063 million in 2006, 2005 and 2004. These capital expenditures mainly comprised the addition of buildings. In 2006, we entered into agreements with other promoters to establish Bohai Venture Capital Fund where we committed to contribute RMB 500 million to Bohai Venture Capital Fund and RMB 5 million to Bohai Venture Capital Fund Management Company, of which RMB 50 million was paid to the fund on December 25, 2006 and RMB 2.5 million was paid to the fund management company on January 31, 2007. The information on our website is notremaining RMB 452.5 million will be paid when called. For a partdescription of this annual report. We have appointed CT Corporation System at 111 Eighth Avenue, New York, New York 10011 as our agent for service of process in the United States.further investments made by us, see “— Business Overview — Investments.”

BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Unless the context otherwise indicates, all company data for years prior to 2004 provided in this section, including data concerning premiums, deposits, policy fees, insurance policies, annuity contracts, agents, personnel, offices, distribution channels and investment assets, do not include data relating to the policies, contracts and investment assets that were retained by CLIC in connection with the restructuring.For further information on the restructuring, see “—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring”. Policies, contracts and investment assets retained by CLIC are not ours and their results of operations will not be reflected in our consolidated financial statements for future periods. Unless otherwise indicated, market share information set forth in this section is based on premium information as reported by the CIRC, which is not determined in accordance with HKFRS or U.S. GAAP. Our market share information for years prior to 2004 set forth in this annual report is estimated by computing the market share of our predecessor company, CLIC, and adjusting it to give effect to our restructuring, based on premiums determined in accordance with PRC GAAP. The policies, contracts and assets retained by CLIC are not ours. Therefore, to reflect our business more accurately as it has been and will be operated following the restructuring, unless we otherwise state, all company data provided for 2003 in this section do not include data relating to the policies, contracts and assets retained by CLIC in the restructuring.

Certain of our accounting policies changed following our adoption of HKFRS which were effective for accounting periods commencing on or after January 1, 2005. Other than reclassification in certain investment and insurance accounts, the adoption of HKFRS had no material impact on our shareholders’ equity and net profits for the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2005. The restatement, however, has resulted in changes to the net losses for the year of 2003. See Note 2 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for more information.

We had nearly 7090 million individual and group life insurance policies, annuity contracts and long-term health insurance policies in force as of December 31, 2005.2006. We also offer accident and short-term health insurance policies to individuals and groups. The guaranteed rate of return for life insurance products has been capped at 2.50% by the CIRC since June 1999. As of December 31, 2005,2006, the average guaranteed rate of return of the products we offered was 2.23%2.35%.

Individual Life Insurance

We are the leading provider of individual life insurance and annuity products in China. We offer life insurance and annuity products to individuals, primarily through a distribution force comprised of approximately 640,000650,000 exclusive agents operating in approximately 12,00015,000 field offices throughout China, as well as other non-dedicated agencies located at branch offices of banks, banking operations of post offices and other organizations. The financial results of our individual long-term health insurance business are also reflected in our individual life insurance business segment. Gross written premiums and policy fees generated by our individual life insurance and annuity products, including long-term health insurance products, totaled RMB 68,88886,587 million (US$8,53611,095 million) for the year ended December 31, 20052006 and RMB 54,90968,888 million for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, constituting 85.0%87.1% and 82.9%85.0% of our total gross written premiums and policy fees for those periods. The figure for 20052006 represented a 25.5%25.7% increase over 2004.2005. First-year gross written premiums from individual life insurance products in 20052006 were RMB 19,57480,086 million (US$2,42510,262 million), representing a 1.6% decrease26.7% increase from 2004.2005. First-year single gross written premiums for the same period were RMB 1,0851,175 million (US$134151 million), representing 5.5%5.2% of first-year individual life insurance gross written premiums. Deposits generated by our individual life insurance and annuity products totaled RMB 62,48370,355 million (US$7,7429,015 million) for the year ended December 31, 20052006 and RMB 66,98162,483 million for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, constituting 72.7%76.9% and 75.5%72.7% of our total deposits for those periods. The figure for 20052006 represented a 6.7% decrease12.6% increase from 2004.2005.

The following table sets forth selected financial and other data regarding our individual life insurance business as of the dates or for the periods indicated.

  As of or for the year ended
December 31,
  Compound
annual
growth rate
   

As of or for the year ended

December 31,

  

Compound

Annual

growth rate

 
  2003  2004  2005  2005  (2003-2005)   2004  2005  2006  2006  (2004-2006) 
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$     RMB  RMB  RMB  US$   
  (in millions, except as otherwise indicated)   (in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Individual life gross written premiums and policy fees

  42,288  54,909  68,888  8,536  27.63%  54,909  68,888  86,587  11,095  25.58%

First-year single gross written premiums

  4,349  2,526  1,085  134  (50.05)%  2,526  1,085  1,175  283  (6.57)%

First-year regular gross written premiums

  8,935  17,374  18,489  2,291  43.85%  17,374  18,489  21,484  2,764  11.42%
                                

First-year gross written premiums

  13,284  19,900  19,574  2,425  21.39%  19,900  19,574  22,659  3,046  9.30%

Individual life insurance deposits

  77,319  66,981  62,483  7,742  (10.10)%  66,981  62,483  70,355  9,015  2.49%

First-year single deposits

  63,098  52,343  46,061  5,708  (14.56)%  52,343  46,061  53,658  6,876  1.25%

First-year regular deposits

  6,330  2,319  3,083  382  (30.21)%  2,319  3,083  2,902  372  11.87%
                                

First-year deposits

  69,428  54,662  49,144  6,090  (15.88)%  54,662  49,144  56,560  7,247  1.72%

Liabilities of long-term traditional insurance contracts

  63,295  88,985  123,457  15,298  39.66%  88,985  123,457  170,954  22,152  39.38%

Deferred income

  18,363  27,039  34,104  4,226  36.28%  27,039  34,104  40,744  5,301  23.70%

Liabilities of long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  135,090  190,791  235,847  29,224  32.13%  190,791  235,847  281,847  42,450  31.77%

Products

We offer a wide variety of life insurance and annuity products to individuals, providing a wide range of coverage for the whole length of a policyholder’s life. Our individual life insurance and annuity products consist of whole life and term life insurance, endowment insurance and annuities. The financial results of our long-term health insurance business are also reflected in our individual life insurance business segment.

We offer both non-participating and participating products. There were approximately 4152.8 million non-participating polices and 2933.3 million participating polices as of December 31, 2005,2006, among which approximately 3738.8 million non-participating polices and 2225.2 million participating policies are offered to individuals. Net premiums earned and policy fees of participating policies of individual life insurance products represent approximately 50.9%52.9% of total net premiums earned and policy fees for individual life insurance products in 2005.2006. Non-participating products provide a fixed rate of return with a guaranteed benefit. We and CLIC have not incurred negative spread on these and other policies transferred to us in the restructuring, as the average investment returns we have been able to generate have been higher than their guaranteed rates. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We are Exposed to Changes in Interest Rates”. The holder of a participating product is entitled to share a portion of our distributable earnings from participating products, as determined by us based on formulas prescribed by the CIRC. Under guidelines issued by the CIRC, the dividends must be no less than 70% of the distributable earnings from participating products. Participating life insurance and annuity products, which were first introduced in 2000, have become our fastest-growing individual life insurance and annuity products.

The following table sets forth selected financial information regarding our individual life insurance and annuity products, including long-term health and accident products, for the periods indicated.

 

  For the year ended December 31,  For the year ended December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2005  2004  2005  2006  2006
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$
  (in millions)  (in millions)

Whole life and term life insurance:

                

Gross written premiums

  16,292  19,812  23,494  2,911  19,812  23,494  28,257  3,621

First-year gross written premiums

  4,606  4,737  5,214  646  4,737  5,214  6,299  807

Total single gross written premiums

  202  141  131  16  141  131  38  5

Endowment:

                

Gross written premiums

  16,998  26,511  35,480  4,396  26,511  35,480  43,582  5,585

First-year gross written premiums

  7,001  13,888  13,012  1,612  13,888  13,012  11,726  1,503

Deposits

  75,619  65,569  60,310  7,473  65,569  60,310  69,583  8,916

First-year deposits

  67,916  53,393  47,072  5,833  53,393  47,072  55,856  7,157

Annuities:

                

Gross written premiums

  3,618  3,790  4,231  524  3,790  4,231  8,247  1,057

First-year gross written premiums

  1,677  1,275  1,348  167  1,275  1,348  4,634  594

Deposits

  1,700  1,412  2,173  269  1,412  2,173  772  99

First-year deposits

  1,512  1,269  2,072  257  1,269  2,072  704  90

Whole Life and Term Life Insurance

Non-participating whole life and term life insurance

We offer non-participating whole life and term life insurance products.

Non-participating whole life insurance products provide a guaranteed benefit, pre-determined by the contract, upon the death of the insured, in return for the periodic payment of fixed premiums over a predetermined period. Premium payments may be required for the length of the contract period, to a specified age or for a specified period, and are typically level throughout the period.

The guaranteed rate of return in China for non-participating whole life insurance products has been capped at 2.50% by the CIRC since June 1999. We believe that the insurance market will continue to move away from non-participating whole life insurance products to participating whole life insurance products.

Non-participating term life insurance products provide a guaranteed benefit upon the death of the insured within a specified time period in return for the periodic payment of fixed premiums. Specified coverage periods generally range from 5 to 20 years or expire at specified ages. Death benefits may be level over the period or increasing. Premiums are typically at a level amount for the coverage period. Term life insurance products are sometimes referred to as pure protection products, in that there are normally little or no savings or investment elements. Unlike endowment products, term life insurance policies expire without value at the end of the coverage period if the insured person is still alive.

Participating whole life insurance

We also offer participating whole life insurance products, which are traditional whole life insurance policies that also provide a participation feature in the form of dividends. The policyholder is entitled to share a portion of the distributable earnings from participating products, as determined by us based on formulas prescribed by the CIRC. Under guidelines issued by the CIRC, the dividends must be no less than 70% of the distributable earnings from participating products. Policyholders may receive dividends in cash or apply them to increase death benefits or cash values available upon surrender.

Endowment

Non-participating endowment products

Non-participating endowment products provide to the insured various guaranteed benefits if the insured survives specified maturity dates or periods stated in the policy, and provide to a beneficiary designated by the insured guaranteed benefits upon the death of the insured within the coverage period, in

return for the periodic payment of premiums. Specified coverage periods generally range from 5 to 20 years or end at specified ages. Premiums are typically at a level amount for the coverage period.

Although non-participating endowment products have historically been among the most popular individual life insurance products in China, we believe that, if the prevailing permitted guaranteed rate in China remains capped at the current level of 2.50% as it has been for the past several years, the market is likely to shift away from these products in favor of participating endowment products.

Participating endowment products

We also offer participating endowment products, which are endowment policies that also provide a participation feature in the form of dividends. Policyholders are entitled to share a portion of the distributable earnings from participating products, as determined by us based on formulas prescribed by the CIRC. Under guidelines issued by the CIRC, the dividends must be no less than 70% of the distributable earnings from participating products. Policyholders may receive dividends in cash or apply them to increase death benefits or cash values available upon surrender.

Participating endowment products are among our fastest growing product lines. Hong Feng Endowment which was introduced to the market at the end of 2004, and Hong Xin Endowment have had the highest level of sales of our investment-type and risk-type participating endowment products. Hong Feng Endowment had RMB 34,91548,189 million (US$4,3266,175 million) of deposits in 2005,2006, representing 55.9%68.5% of total deposits of our individual life insurance business and 71.0%85.2% of total first-year deposits of our individual life insurance business. Hong Xin Endowment had RMB 20,99426,781 million (US$2,6013,432 million) of gross written premiums in 2005,2006, representing 30.5%30.9% of total gross written premiums and policy fees of our individual life insurance business. First-year gross written premiums of Hong Xin Endowment for the year ended December 31, 20052006 were RMB 11,0678,360 million (US$1,3711,071 million), representing a 1.8%24.5% decrease from the year before, or 56.5%36.9% of total first-year gross written premiums of our individual life insurance business. Total deposits from our individual participating products in 20052006 decreased by 6.7%16.1%, to RMB 75,96463,706 million (US$9,4138,163 million) from RMB 81,41675,964 million in 2004.2005. Total net premiums earned from our risk-type participating products increased by 38.7%32.2%, to RMB 41,001 million (US$5,254 million) in 2006 from RMB 31,016 million (US$3,843 million) in 2005 from RMB 22,363 million in 2004.2005.

In January 2007, our new risk-type participating endowment product “Mei Man Yi Sheng” was introduced to the market.

Annuities

Annuities are used for both asset accumulation and asset distribution needs. Annuitants make deposits or pay premiums into our accounts, and receive guaranteed level payments during the payoff period specified in the contracts. We offer both non-participating and participating annuities. For non-participating annuity products, risks associated with the investments are borne entirely by us. A significant portion of our non-participating annuity products imposes charges upon an early surrender or withdrawal of the contract.

Participating annuity products are annuities that provide a participation feature in the form of dividends. The dividends are determined by us in the same manner as our life insurance policies. Annuitants may receive dividends in cash or apply them to increase annuity benefits or reduce the premiums or deposits required to maintain the contract in force. Like non-participating annuities, a significant portion of our participating annuity products imposes charges upon an early surrender or withdrawal of the contract.

Joint Life and Universal Products

We began the sale of joint life and universal products in certain provinces on a trial basis insince 2005.

Joint life products are life insurance policies, for which there are two or more persons insured under one policy. Joint life products can be term life, whole life or universal products. Universal life products are life insurance policies with flexible premium and benefit amounts. For each universal life policy, we establish a separate account and determine the interest credit rate, mortality and expense charges specifically for such account. The benefits of universal life products are linked to the account value of each separate account.

Marketing and Distribution

We have historically sold most of our individual life insurance and annuity products to the mass market and will continue to actively serve this market. However, we believe our core individual customer base will evolve as China’s economy develops. We will seek to capitalize on the market opportunities in the growing affluent segment of China’s population by focusing our marketing efforts on individuals residing in urban and economically developed coastal areas of China, where disposable income is relatively higher and, we believe, demand for life insurance and annuity products is greater. In addition, we are implementing a new customer segmentation sales approach which targets individuals of various income and education levels with different products. Under this sales approach, individuals in different periods of their lives are marketed with different life insurance and annuity products, with these products in many cases supplemented by our individual accident and health products.

We distribute our individual life and annuity products nationwide through multiple channels. Our primary distribution system is comprised of approximately 640,000650,000 exclusive agents operating in approximately 12,00015,000 field offices throughout China. In addition, we are implementing our customer-oriented market segmentation sales initiatives to all exclusive agents nationwide. While continuing to invest in our exclusive agent force, we have also expanded into other distribution channels, primarily non-dedicated agencies located in approximately 89,00087,000 outlets of commercial banks, banking operations of post offices and savings cooperatives, to diversify our distribution channels and to achieve higher growth. See “—Distribution Channels”.

Group Life Insurance

We are a leading group life insurance company in China, providing group life insurance and annuity products to the employees of many of China’s largestlarge companies and institutions, including many of the Fortune Global 500 companies operating in China. We offer group life insurance and annuity products to the employees of companies and institutions through approximately 12,000 direct sales representatives operating in more than 3,7003,600 branch offices as well as insurance agencies and insurance brokerage companies. The financial results of our group long-term health insurance business are also reflected in our group life insurance business segment. Gross written premiums and policy fees generated from our group life insurance and annuity products totaled RMB 1,2671,740 million (US$157223 million) for the year ended December 31, 20052006 and RMB 7421,267 million for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, constituting 1.6%1.8% and 1.1%1.6% of our total gross written premiums and policy fees for each respective year. The figure for 20052006 represented a 70.8%37.3% increase from 2004.2005. First-year gross written premiums from group life products insurance and annuity products for 20052006 were RMB 8511,115 million (US$105143 million), representing a 188.5%31% increase from 2004.2005. First-year single gross written premiums for 20052006 were RMB 8111,030 million (US$100132 million), representing 95.3%92.4% of first-year group life insurance gross written premiums. Deposits generated by our group life insurance and annuity products totaled RMB 23,46321,086 million (US$2,9072,702 million) for the year ended December 31, 20052006 and RMB 21,75623,463 million for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, constituting 27.3%23.1% and 24.5%27.3% of our total deposits for those periods. The figure for 20052006 represented a 7.8% increase10.1% decrease from 2004.2005.

The following table sets forth selected financial and other data regarding our group life insurance business as of the dates or for the periods indicated.

 

  As of or for the year ended
December 31,
  Compound
annual
growth rate
   

As of or for the year ended

December 31,

  

Compound

Annual

growth rate

 
  2003  2004  2005  2005  (2003-2005)   2004  2005  2006  2006  (2004-2006) 
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$     RMB  RMB  RMB  US$   
  (in millions, except as otherwise indicated)   (in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Group life gross written premiums and policy fees

  432  742  1,267  157  71.26%  742  1,267  1,740  223  53.13%

First-year single gross written premiums

  204  261  811  100  99.39%  261  811  1,030  132  98.65%

First-year regular gross written premiums

  17  34  40  5  53.39%  34  40  85  11  58.11%
                                

First-year gross written premiums

  221  295  851  105  96.23%  295  851  1,115  143  94.41%

Group life insurance deposits

  10,117  21,756  23,463  2,907  52.29%  21,756  23,463  21,086  2,702  (1.55)%

First-year single deposits

  10,070  21,726  23,401  2,900  52.44%  21,726  23,401  21,072  2,700  (1.52)%

First-year regular deposits

  31  12  51  6  28.26%  12  51  6  0.77  (29.29)%
                                

First-year deposits

  10,101  21,738  23,452  2,906  52.37%  21,738  23,452  21,078  2,701  (1.53)%

Liabilities of long-term traditional insurance contracts

  670  713  1,199  149  33.77%  713  1,199  1,921  246  64.14%

Deferred income

  390  564  527  65  16.24%  564  527  627  80  5.44%

Liabilities of long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  19,641  35,205  45,256  5,608  51.79%  35,205  45,256  49,437  6,335  18.50%

Products

We offer group annuity products and group whole life and term life insurance products to our companiesenterprises and institutions. We bundle these products to serve as part of our group customers’ overall employee benefit plans. We also market each group product as an independent product. We believe we are the market leader in the development of group annuity products.

The following table sets forth selected financial information regarding our group life insurance and annuity products, including long-term health products, for the periods indicated.

 

  For the year ended December 31,  For the year ended December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2005  2004  2005  2006  2006
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$
  (in millions)  (in millions)

Group annuities:

                

Premiums

  —    —    169  21  —    169  232  30

Deposits

  10,117  21,105  21,528  2,668  21,105  21,528  18,411  2,359

Group whole life and term life insurance:

                

Premiums

  255  344  698  86  344  698  912  117

Deposits

  —    98  101  13  98  101  169  22

Endowment:

                

Premiums

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Deposits

  —    553  1,834  227  553  1,834  2,506  321

Group annuities

In our non-participating group annuities, interest on an annuitant’s deposits is credited to each participating employee’s personal account.

We also offer participating group annuities. In our participating group annuities, interest on an annuitant’s deposits is either credited to the participating employee’s personal account or credited to the participating employee’s personal account as well

as the employer’s group account, depending on the source of the deposits, calculated at a guaranteed interest rate set at the time the product is priced, subject to a cap fixed by the CIRC, which currently is 2.50%. The annuitant is entitled to share a portion of our

distributable earnings derived from our participating products, as determined by us based on formulas prescribed by the CIRC, in excess of the rate we guarantee to participating employees.

Group participating annuity products, including Yong Tai Annuity and Group Annuity (Retirement Supplement), are among our fastest growingmajor product lines. For the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, total combined deposits of Yong Tai Annuity and Group Annuity (Retirement Supplement) were RMB 20,96717,822 million (US$2,5982,284 million), constituting 89.4%84.5% of total deposits of our group life insurance business for that year, representing a 1.8% increase15.0% decrease from the year before. Total deposits from our group participating products in 2006 decreased by 14.4% to RMB 18,043 million (US$2,312 million) from RMB 21,068 million in 2005.

The following table sets forth total combined deposits of our Yong Tai Annuity and Group Annuity (Retirement Supplement) products for the periods indicated.

 

  For the year ended
December 31,
  For the year ended December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2005  2004  2005  2006  2006
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$
  (in millions)  (in millions)

Yong Tai Annuity and Group Annuity (Retirement Supplement):

                

Deposits

  9,128  20,596  20,967  2,598  20,596  20,967  17,822  2,284

Group whole life and term life insurance

We offer group non-participating whole life insurance products and group non-participating term life insurance products. All of ourOur group whole life and term life insurance products insure against death while some also insure against injuriesand serious disabilities due to accidents and disabilities due to illnesses.illness.

Marketing and distribution

We target our group life insurance and annuity products to large institutional customers in China, including branches of foreign companies, which we believe have the greatesta greater awareness of and need for group life insurance and annuity products. We have long-term customer relationships with many of China’s largest companies and institutions. We provide large group customers with products having flexible fee and dividend structures, as well as enhanced real-time customer service. While continuing to focus on large institutional clients, we also target small- to medium-sized companies in economically developed regions to supplement our growth and to increase our profits.

We market our group life insurance and annuity products primarily through our direct sales representatives. We also market our group life insurance and annuity products through commercial banks, banking operations of post offices, insurance agency companies and insurance brokerage companies. We believe our sales network has a geographic reach unparalleled by any other life insurance company in China, serving almost every county in China. See “—Distribution Channels”.

Accident and Health Insurance

We are the leading accident insurance and a leading health insurance provider in China.

The following table sets forth selected financial and other data regarding our short-term accident insurance and short-term health insurance businesses as of the dates or for the periods indicated. The financial results of our long-term health insurance and long-term accident businesses are reflected in our individual and group life insurance business segments, respectively. See “—Individual Life Insurance” and “—Group Life Insurance”.

 

  As of or for the year ended
December 31,
  Compound
annual
growth rate
   

As of or for the year ended

December 31,

  

Compound

Annual

growth rate

 
  2003  2004  2005  2005  (2003-2005)   2004  2005  2006  2006  (2004-2006) 
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$     RMB  RMB  RMB  US$   
  (in millions, except as otherwise indicated)   (in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Short-term accident insurance premiums

  4,880  4,977  5,135  636  2.58%  4,977  5,135  5,148  660  1.7%

Short-term health insurance premiums

  5,325  5,629  5,732  710  3.75%  5,629  5,732  5,942  761  2.7%

Accident and health reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses (gross)

  814  1,215  1,784  221  48.04%  1,215  1,784  2,498  320  43.4%

Accident and health insurance unearned premium reserves (net)

  4,575  4,641  4,856  602  3.03%

Accident and health insurance unearned premium reserves (gross)

  5,212  5,147  5,346  685  7.3%

Accident insurance

We are the leading accident insurance provider in China. Our short-term accident insurance gross written premiums totaled RMB 5,1355,148 million (US$636660 million) for the year ended December 31, 20052006 and RMB 4,9775,135 million for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, constituting 6.3%5.2% and 7.5%6.3% of our total gross written premiums and policy fees for those periods.

Products

We offer a broad array of accident insurance products to both individuals and groups.

Individual accident insurance

Individual accident insurance products provide a benefit in the event of death or disability of the insured as a result of an accident, or a reimbursement of medical expenses to the insured in connection with an accident. Typically, a death benefit is paid if the insured dies as a result of the accident within 180 days of the accident, and a disability benefit is paid if the insured is disabled, with the benefit depending on the extent of the disability. If the insured receives medical treatment at a medical institution approved by us as a result of an accident, individual accident insurance products also may provide coverage for medical expenses. We offer a broad array of individual accident insurance products, such as insurance for students and infants against death and disability resulting from accidental injury and comprehensive coverage against accidental injury. We also offer products to individuals requiring special protection, such as accidental death and disability insurance for commercial air travel passengers and automobile passengers and drivers. The terms of individual accident insurance products range from a few hours to one year.

Group accident insurance

We offer a number of group accident insurance products and services to businesses, government agencies and other organizations of various sizes. We also offer group accident products targeted at specific industry groups, such as construction worker related accident insurance to construction companies, and law enforcement personnel accident insurance to various law enforcement agencies.

Marketing and distribution

We market our individual accident insurance products through our direct sales force and our exclusive agent sales force, as well as intermediaries, such as non-dedicated agencies located at outlets of commercial banks, banking operations of post offices, savings cooperatives, travel agencies, hotels and airline sales counters and insurance agency and insurance brokerage companies. We market our group accident insurance

products primarily through our direct sales representatives and the same intermediaries we use to sell our individual accident products. See “—Distribution Channels”.

We use our individual and group product distribution channels to market our accident products either as primary products, as riders or as supplementary products packaged with our life, annuity or health products. We have entered into cooperative agreements and memoranda of understanding with airline companies, international medical, emergency and evacuation assistance companies and other companies and institutions to promote our accident insurance products. Our direct sales representatives market our short-term individual health products to employees of our institutional customers.

Health insurance

We are a leading health insurance provider in China. We offer a broad array of short-term health insurance products and services to both individuals and groups, including disease-specific insurance, medical expense insurance and defined benefit insurance. We sell health insurance products to individuals and groups through the same distribution channels we use to sell our life insurance products. Our short-term health insurance gross written premiums totaled RMB 5,7325,942 million (US$710761 million) for the year ended December 31, 20052006 and RMB 5,6295,732 million for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, constituting 7.1%6.0% and 8.5%7.1% of our total gross written premiums and policy fees for those periods. The figure for 20052006 represented a 1.8%3.7% increase from 2004.2005.

Our health insurance business shares our nationwide life insurance sales force and distribution network of exclusive agents. Our policy review and claim adjustment processes are facilitated through a team of supporting personnel with medical training.

Products

We offer short-term health insurance products to both individuals and groups. We classify our health insurance products as short-term products, having policy terms of less than or up to one year, and long-term products, having policy terms longer than one year. We offer both short-term and long-term defined health benefit plans, medical expense reimbursement plans and disease-specific plans to individuals and groups.

Defined health benefit plans

These plans provide a fixed payment based on the number of days of hospitalization for specific diseases or surgical operation. Policyholders either pay premiums in a single payment or on a periodic basis.

Medical expense reimbursement plans

These plans provide for the reimbursement of a portion of the participant’s outpatient or hospitalization treatment fees and expenses. Policyholders either pay premiums in a single payment or on a periodic basis or, for certain group medical expense reimbursement plans, irregularly as determined by the policyholder.

Disease-specific plans

These plans provide a fixed payment benefit for various diseases. Premium payments for disease-specific plans are paid either in a single payment or on a periodic basis.

Product Development

In 2006, we completed the development of 36 new products, including ten long-term life insurance products, ten accident insurance products and 16 health insurance products. We also modified and upgraded our most important group life insurance product, “Yong Tai Group Annuity”. We modified the long-term life insurance products based on the new Mortality Table published by CIRC.

Also in 2006, we began to establish regional research centers for product development to study and satisfy market needs and be able to respond speedily to market requirements. Presently we have set up four regional products research and development centers in Shanghai, Jiangsu, Chongqing and Shenzhen.

In 2006, in complying with CIRC’s requirements, we amended the contract terms of our insurance products with an aim to clarify the products’ terms and conditions and strengthen customers’ rights.

In March 2007, our new product “China Life Simple Life and Medical Insurance” (“SLMI”), an individual life insurance product, was launched. The terms of the SLMI are simple and easy to understand, taking into account the consumers’ affordability and the insurance requirements. Presently, SLMI has been approved by CIRC for an initial launch in the agricultural villages of Hebei, Henan and Jiangsu.

Marketing and distribution

We offer our health insurance products to both individuals and groups through the same distribution channels we use to market our life insurance products. We market our individual health insurance products through our exclusive agent sales force. We market our short-term health insurance products and group health insurance products primarily through our direct sales representatives. See “—Distribution Channels”.

We use our individual and group product distribution channels to market our health products either as primary products, as riders or as supplementary products packaged with our life, annuity or accident insurance products. We conduct extensive health insurance related training programs for our direct sales representatives and our exclusive agents.

Distribution Channels

In connection with our restructuring, CLIC transferred its entire distribution force to us. After giving effect to our restructuring, we believe we have the largest distribution force with the most extensive geographic reach compared with any of our competitors. Our distribution network reaches almost every county in China. Throughout China, we have approximately 640,000650,000 exclusive agents operating in approximately 12,00015,000 field offices for our individual products and more than 12,000 direct sales representatives in more than 3,7003,600 branch offices for group products. We have a multi-channel distribution network selling individual and group insurance products through intermediaries, primarily non-dedicated agencies located in approximately 89,00087,000 outlets of commercial, banks, banking operations of post offices and savings cooperatives.cooperatives as of the end of December 2006, a slight decrease from 2005. This decrease was primarily due to the restructuring of the network to eliminate inefficiencies as well as the increase of market competition. Commission rates vary by product, based on such factors as the payment terms and period over which the premiums are paid for the product, as well as CIRC regulations. We support our agents and representatives through training programs, sales materials and information technology systems.

Exclusive agent force

Our exclusive agent force of approximately 640,000650,000 agents, including those who are not qualified, is the primary distribution channel for our individual life, health and accident insurance products.

The following table sets forth information relating to our exclusive agent force as of the dates indicated.

 

  As of December 31,  As of December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2004  2005  2006

Number of exclusive agents (approximately)

  655,000  668,000  640,000  668,000  640,000  650,000

Number of field offices

  8,200  9,300  12,000  9,300  12,000  15,000

Our exclusive agent force is among our most valuable assets, allowing us to more effectively control our distribution and build and maintain long-term relationships with our individual customers. From December 31, 2003 to December 31, 2004, the number of our exclusive agents increased from approximately 655,000 to approximately 668,000. The number of our exclusive agents decreased to 640,000 as of the end of 2005 from 668,000 as of the end of 2004. This decrease was primarily due to the strengthened performance review conducted by us in 2005, as a result of which a number of exclusive agents with comparatively lower productivity left. In addition, CIRC agents in certain provinces began requiring, from 2005, all exclusive agents to hold the CIRC qualification certificates to conduct businesses, which resulted in the departure of some of our exclusive agents. The number of our exclusive agents increased from 640,000 as of the end of 2005 to 650,000 as of the end of 2006. This increase was primarily due to the improvement of our hiring methods and results. We believe that our customers and prospective customers prefer the personal approach of our exclusive agents, and, therefore, we believe our exclusive agent force will continue to serve as our core distribution channel.

In 2006, we also accelerated the development of a special sales force services offered for “orphan policies” (policies which were serviced by our former individual agents but are no longer serviced by such agents after the departure of such agents from our company) and new business development. As of the end of 2006, such sales force included approximately 17,000 exclusive agents, which are included in the 650,000 exclusive agents.

Under the PRC insurance law, an individual agent for an insurance company is required to obtain a qualification certificate from the CIRC, as well as to register with, and obtain a business license from, the agent’s local bureau of the SAIC. See “—Regulatory and Related Matters—Regulation of Insurance Agencies, Insurance Brokers and Other Intermediaries”. Essentially all of the agents in our exclusive agent sales force do not qualify as “individual agents” within the meaning of the insurance law because they do not meet the dual requirements of holding a CIRC qualification certificate and a business license from the local bureau of industry and commerce. We believe that this situation is shared by all major life insurance companies in China. Approximately 79.2%96.4% of our exclusive agents hold a CIRC qualification certificate, and essentially none has a business license. In May 2004, the CIRC issued a circular requiring insurance companies to take effective measures in carrying out the qualification certification requirement. Furthermore, no insurance company may issue a company certificate to any person identifying that person as its sales representative, if the person does not have a CIRC qualification. Pursuant to the circular, we are also required to take appropriate measures to improve both participation of our agents taking the qualification examination and their success rate, and to report to the CIRC on a quarterly basis the percentage of our agents holding a CIRC qualification certificate. In April 2006, the CIRC issued regulations on administration of individual agents, to be effective on July 1, 2006, in order to further strengthen the administration of individual agents. Pursuant to these regulations, insurance companies that retain individual agents without CIRC qualification certificates and underwriting certificates to engage in

insurance sales activities will be warned and fined up to RMB 30,000 and the responsible member of senior management of such insurance companies will be warned and fined up to RMB 10,000. In serious circumstances, the CIRC may order the insurance companies to remove the responsible member of senior management from office and reject the application of setting up branch offices by such insurance companies. In the meantime, the CIRC recently launched, in certain provinces on trial basis, a qualification recognition system, by which exclusive agents without CIRC qualification certificates may apply for such certificates without taking examinations, if they meet certain specified requirements on previous experience and performance. We are working with our agents who are not yet CIRC-qualified to obtain the CIRC certification. It is our understanding that the SAIC does not have procedures in place to effect the registration and licensing of individual insurance agents, although some local bureaus of industry and commerce have had on occasions required our agents to register. To date, this noncompliance has not had a material adverse effect on us. We are not sure whether or when this registration requirement will be enforced by bureaus of industry and commerce nationwide. If these registration and qualification requirements are enforced, or if they result in a substantial number of policyholders canceling their policies, our business may be materially and adversely affected. In addition, we understand that the CIRC may require, in the near future, that every individual agent must wear credentials showing specified information, including whether or not the agent is licensed, when conducting agency business. If such requirement becomes effective, our business may also be adversely affected. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the PRC Life Insurance Industry—All of our agents are required to be qualified and to be registered as business entities. If these qualification and registration requirements are enforced or result in policyholders canceling their policies, our business may be materially and adversely affected.”

We supervise and provide training to our exclusive agents through more than 8,4009,100 supervisors and more than 1,1001,300 full-time trainers. We set product management and customer service standards, and have developed risk warning and credit rating systems, which we require all of our field offices and agents to meet and apply, and conduct field tests with a view to ensuring quality. We also have an extensive training program.

We compensate our exclusive agent force through a system of commissions and bonuses to reward performance. Our agents are compensated based on a commission rate that generally decreases over the premium period. For short-term insurance products, our exclusive agents are generally compensated with fixed agent fees. We provide pension funds, andgroup commercial supplemental pension insurance, group life and medical insurance for

our exclusive agents. We motivate our agents by rewarding them with performance-based bonuses and by organizing sales-related competitions among different field offices and sales units. We also try to increase the loyalty of our exclusive agents through other methods, such as through participation in sales conferences.

We believe we have the largest exclusive agent sales force in China. We intend to improve the quality and productivity of our individual exclusive agent force and reduce the attrition rate of our agents by taking the following actions:

 

improving the overall productivity of our exclusive agents by expanding our customer-oriented market segmentation sales approach and standardized sales services to all agents nationwide;

 

motivating our exclusive agents with an improved performance-based compensation scheme;

 

building a more professional exclusive agent force by improving our training programs and enhancing our training efforts, such as CIAMthe Chartered Insurance Agency Manager courses organized by LIMRA,the Life Insurance Marketing and Research Association, and increasing the number of qualified exclusive agents;

 

improving the quality of our exclusive agent force by expanding our recruitment program and standardizing our recruitment procedures and admission requirements; and

 

improving the efficiency of our exclusive agents by providing sales support and equipments, including expanding the China Life sales support system nationwide and equipping our more productive exclusive agents with personal electronic devices to further enhance their marketing, time management and customer service capabilities.

Direct sales force

Our direct sales force is our primary distribution system for our group life insurance and annuities, group accident insurance and group health insurance products, as well as our individual accident insurance and individual short-term health insurance products.

Our direct sales force of approximately 12,000 direct sales representatives are our full time employees and operate in more than 3,7003,600 branch offices across China. We believe our sales network has a geographic reach unparalleled by any other life insurance company in China, serving almost every county in China.

We believe our direct sales force allows us to more effectively control our distribution and build and maintain long-term relationships with our group customers and, therefore, will continue to serve as our primary distribution system for our group products. We believe maintaining our leading position in the group insurance market depends on a professional and qualified direct sales force, and we have devoted substantial resources to the training and supervision of our direct sales force in recent years. We set product management and customer service standards which we require all of our branch offices and direct sales representatives to meet, and conduct field tests to centralize quality control and management. We also have an extensive training program.

As full time employees, our direct sales representatives are compensated through fixed salaries. We motivate our direct sales representatives by rewarding them with performance-based bonuses and by organizing sales and services-related competitions among different branch offices and sales units.

Intermediaries

We also offer individual and group products through intermediaries. Our distribution channels are primarily comprised of non-dedicated agencies located in approximately 89,00087,000 outlets of commercial banks, post offices and savings cooperatives, as well as insurance agencies and insurance brokerage companies.

Bancassurance

We have bancassurance arrangements with major banks, savings cooperatives and banking operations of post offices in China, and currently generate a significant portion of our total sales through bancassurance. Bancassurance is a fast growing channel, and we will continue to dedicate substantial resources, through our intermediarybancassurance department, to develop our bancassurance business, with a focus on key cities. We are dedicated to explorehave established strategic alliances with one or moreseveral banks. We intend to improve the attractiveness of our products by providing products and services tailored to each major bank and providing training and integrated systems support to our banking partners.

Other non-dedicated agencies

In addition to bancassurance, we also sell short-term insurance products through other non-dedicated agencies. Currently, we have non-dedicated agencies operating at outlets of travel agencies, hotels and airline sales counters. We expect non-dedicated agencies to become an increasingly important distribution channel for individual products.

Other intermediaries

We also market group products through dedicated insurance agencies and insurance brokerage companies. Dedicated insurance agencies and insurance brokerage companies work with companies primarily to select group insurance providers and group products and services in return for commission fees.

Currently, the market of dedicated insurance agencies and insurance brokerage companies in China remains generally underdeveloped. We expect the dedicated insurance agencies and insurance brokerage companies to become more effective distribution channels in the medium term. In the long run, we expect other channels, such as direct mail, direct telephone and the Internet, to become valuable distribution channels for our products.

Competition

Our nearest competitors are Ping An and China Pacific Life.

 

In the individual life insurance market, Ping An, China Pacific Life and we collectively represented 81%78% of total individual life insurance premiums in 2004.2005. We primarily compete based on the nationwide reach of our sales network and the level of services we provide, as well as our strong brand name.

 

In the group life insurance market, Ping An, China Pacific Life and we collectively represented 84%57% of total group life insurance premiums in 2004.2005. We primarily compete based on the nationwide reach of our sales network and the services we provide, as well as our relationships and reputation among large companies and institutions in China.

In the accident insurance market, Ping An, China Pacific Life and we collectively represented 89%87% of total accident premiums in 2004.2005. We primarily compete based on the nationwide reach of our sales network and the services we provide and our strong brand name, as well as our cooperative arrangements with other companies and institutions.

 

In the health insurance market, Ping An, China Pacific Life and we collectively represented 79% of total health premiums in 2004.2005. We primarily compete based on the nationwide reach of our sales network, the services we provide, our multi-layered managed care scheme and systems of policy review and claim management, as well as our strong brand name.

The following table sets forth market share information for the year ended December 31, 2004,2005, the most recent year for which official market information is available, in all segments of the life insurance market in which we do business.

 

   Individual
life
premiums
market share
  Group life
premiums
market share
  Accident
premiums
market share
  Health
premiums
market share
  Total
premiums
market share
 

China Life

  53% 47% 59% 34% 51%

Ping An Insurance Company of China, Ltd.

  17% 16% 16% 41% 19%

China Pacific Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

  11% 21% 14% 4% 12%

New China Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

  7% 5% 2% 9% 6%

Tai Kang Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

  6% 7% 3% 5% 6%

Others(1)

  6% 4% 6% 7% 6%

Total

  100% 100% 100% 100% 100%
                

   

Individual

life

premiums

market share

  

Group life

premiums

market share

  

Accident

premiums

market share

  

Health

premiums

market share

  

Total

premiums

market share

 

China Life

  51% 37% 54% 31% 47%

Ping An Insurance Company of China, Ltd.

  16% 9% 16% 45% 17%

China Pacific Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

  11% 11% 17% 3% 11%

New China Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

  7% 5% 2% 7% 6%

Tai Kang Life Insurance Co. Ltd.

  6% 3% 3% 5% 5%

Others(1)

  9% 35% 8% 9% 14%

Total

  100% 100% 100% 100% 100%

(1)

Others include Taiping Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Minsheng Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Sino Life Insurance Co., Ltd., PICC Life Insurance Co., Ltd., PICC Health Insurance Co., Ltd., Hua Tai Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Union Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Greatwall Life Insurance Co., Ltd., National Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Manulife-Sinochem Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Pacific-Antai Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Allianz-Dazhong Life Insurance Co. Ltd., AXA-Minmetals

Assurance Co., Ltd., China Life-CMGCMG Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Citic-Prudential Life Insurance Co., Ltd., John Hancock-Tianan Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Generali China Life Insurance Co. Ltd., Sun Life Everbright Life Insurance Co. Ltd., ING Capital Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Haier New York Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Aviva-COFCO Life Insurance Co., Ltd., AEGON-CNOOC Life Insurance Co., Ltd., CIGNA and CMC Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Nissay-SVA Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Heng An Standard Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Skandia-BSM Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Sino-US Metlife Insurance Co., Ltd. and American International Assurance Co., Ltd., Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beijing, Suzhou, Dongguan and Jiangmen branches.branches, Cathay Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Met Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Allianz China Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Samsung Air China life Insurance Co., Ltd.

Source: China Insurance Yearbook 20052006

We face competition not only from domestic life insurance companies, but also from non-life insurance companies and foreign-invested life insurers. The number of life insurance companies licensed in China has been growing steadily, which we believe will lead to greater competition in the life insurance industry. There were 3235 licensed life insurance companies in China as of December 31, 2003, 35 as of December 31, 2004, and 43 as of December 31, 2005.2005 and 45 as of December 31, 2006. It was reported that due to several large group annuity policies underwritten by Sino-foreign insurance joint ventures for their Chinese investors, the market shares of foreign invested insurance companies increased substantially in 2005. Property and casualty insurers were allowed to sell accident and short-term health insurance products with regulatory approval starting from January 2003, which we believe will lead to greater competition in the accident and health insurance sectors, especially in the group accident and group health insurance products. In addition, we believe that the recent elimination of geographic limitations on foreign-invested insurance companies will further increase competition in China’s life insurance market.

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the PRC Life Insurance Industry—We expect competition in the Chinese insurance industry to increase, which may materially and adversely affect the growth of our business”.

We face competition from other financial services providers, primarily licensed mutual fund companies, trust companies and brokerage houses licensed to manage separate accounts. These financial services providers may be permitted to manage employer-sponsored defined contribution pension plans, which we believe will compete directly with our group annuity products. We also face competition in the sale of our individual participating policies and annuities from financial institutions which offer investment products to the public.

Asset Management Business

On November 23, 2003 we established an asset management joint venture, AMC, with our predecessor, CLIC, in connection with the restructuring for the purpose of operating the asset management business more professionally in a separate entity and to better attract and retain qualified investment management professionals. The joint ventureAMC manages our investment assets and, separately, substantially all of those of CLIC. For a description of our investment assets, see “—Investments”.

The asset management joint ventureAMC is our subsidiary, with us owning 60% and CLIC owning the remaining 40%. Members of the board of directors are Miao Jianmin, Zhuang Zuojin, Liu Jiade, Wan Feng, Lin Huimin and Lin Huimin.Shi Yucheng. Directors of the asset management joint ventureAMC are appointed by the shareholders in general meeting. Accordingly, we, as the controlling shareholder, effectively control the composition of its board of directors.

Property and Casualty Business and Pension Insurance Business

We will form a property and casualty joint venture with CLIC and a professional pension insurance company with CLIC and the asset management joint venture. We have entered into a share subscription agreement in respect of theon March 13, 2006 and a promoters agreement with CLIC on October 23, 2006 to establish a property and casualty company, China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited, with us owning 40% and CLIC owning the remaining 60%. The property and casualty company obtained its business license on December 30, 2006.

Pension Insurance Business

We entered into a promoters agreement in respectwith CLIC and AMC on March 21, 2006 to establish a pension insurance joint venture, China Life Pension Company Limited. The pension insurance company obtained its business license on January 15, 2007, with us owning 55%, CLIC owning 25% and AMC owning the remaining 20%. We are the controlling shareholder of the pension insurance company. See “Item 7. Major Shareholderscompany as we directly own 55% of the share capital and Related Party Transaction—Related Party Transactions” for details of these two agreements.AMC, which is 60% owned by us, owns 20%.

Customer Support Management

We seek to provide quality services to our customers and potential customers and to be responsive to their needs, both before and after a sale, through an extensive customer support network. Our customer service network is managed by a specialized customer service department, which is responsible for setting uniform standards and procedures for providing policy-related services to customers, handling inquiries and complaints from customers and training customer services personnel.

We deliver customer services primarily through customer service units operating in our branch offices and in field offices throughout China and a sophisticated telephone call center network. We provide customer support to more remote areas by mail and other means. We also take advantage of alternative customer services channels, such as wireless telephone networkscellphone messages and the Internet, complementing the customer services provided by our customer service units and the call center network. We also established a specialized customer service department in 2006 to further refine our customer services. The customer service department’s role is to provide service to our customers and supervise the quality of service provided by our customer service units.

Customer service units

We provide customer support through approximately 3,7003,000 customer service units nationwide. We provide more than 40approximately 50 different types of policy-related services to our customers, which include collecting regular premiums, renewing policies, purchasing supplemental policies, reinstating lapsed policies, processing surrenders, increasing insured amounts, processing policy loans, paying benefits and updating information regarding holders and beneficiaries of policies. We require our customer service units to provide these policy-related services in accordance with procedures and standards that we

implement on a nationwide basis, helping to ensure the quality of the services we provide. We implemented uniform service standards for customer service units nationwide in 2005.

Telephone call service center network

Our telephone call centers allow customers to make product and service inquiries, file complaints, report claims and losses, make appointments and update the information regarding holders and beneficiaries of policies. They also provide call-back and greeting message services to customers. We intend to broaden over time the services we offer through these call centers. With our dedicated, nationwide inquiry line, “95519”, our customers can reach us on a “24 hours/7 days” basis in key cities. The call centers are supported by our web-based “95519” Support System based on Internet protocol technology, which contains customer and service information.basis.

We believe our call centers have become popular with our customers because of the quality of services they provide. We were awarded the best call center in China in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2006,2007 by the Professional Committee for the Promotion and Alliance of Customer Relationship Management of Information under the Ministry of Information Industry, and have obtained the authentication of Chinese national call center operating performance standards. We seekwere also awarded “2006 Top 10 Service Brands in China” by China Call Center of CRM Association in December 2006. We will continue to ensure that we have a sufficient number of lines and staff to service the increasing utilization of our call centers.

We have established system-wide standards for our call centers, which we monitor periodically through test calls to the call centers.

Wireless telephoneCellphone message services

We utilize wireless telephone services to make instant contact with our agents and customers. Through special service codes (70095519 for China Unicom and 6295519 for China Mobile), we may send short messages to our customers all over China, conveying such information as birthday and holiday greetings, premium payment notices and premium payment confirmations. We have installed, and completed the implementation of, this wireless telephone service system in all of our branch offices at the provincial level.

Internet-based services

Our customers can also utilize our Internet-based services for inquiries, complaints and service requests through our website (www.e-chinalife.com).

Reserves of Long-term Traditional Insurance Contracts

For all of our product lines, we establish, and carry as liabilities, actuarially determined amounts that are calculated to meet our obligations under our insurance policies and annuity contracts.

Financial statement reserves

In accordance with HKFRS, our reserves for financial reporting purposes are based on actuarially recognized methods for estimating future policy benefits and claims. We expect these reserve amounts, along with future premiums to be received on policies and contracts and investment earnings on these amounts, to be sufficient to meet our insurance policy and contract obligations.

We establish the liabilities for obligations for future policy benefits and claims based on assumptions that are uncertain when made. Our assumptions include assumptions for mortality, morbidity, persistency, expenses, and investment returns, as well as macroeconomic factors such as

inflation. These assumptions may deviate from our actual experiences and, as a result, we cannot determine precisely the amounts which we will ultimately pay to settle these liabilities or when these payments will need to be made. These amounts may vary from the estimated amounts, particularly when those payments may not occur until well into the future. We evaluate our liabilities periodically, based on changes in the assumptions used to establish the liabilities, as well as our actual policy benefits and claims experience. We expense changes in our liabilities in the period the liabilities are established or re-estimated. To the extent that trends in actual claims results are less favorable than our underlying assumptions used in establishing these liabilities, and these trends are expected to continue in the future, we may be required to increase our liabilities. This increase could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and, if significant, our financial condition. Any material impairment in our solvency levelmargin could change our customers’ or business partners’ perception of our financial health, which in turn could affect our sales, earnings and operations.

Statutory reserves

We are required under China’s insurance law to report policy reserves for regulatory purposes. The minimum levels of these reserves are based on methodologies and assumptions mandated by the CIRC. We also maintain assets in excess of policy reserves to meet the solvency requirements under CIRC regulations.

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Differences in future actual claims results from the assumptions used in pricing and establishing reserves for our insurance and annuity products may materially and adversely affect our earnings”.

Business Management

Underwriting and Pricing

Our individual and group insurance underwriting involves the evaluation of applications for life, accident and health insurance products by a professional staff of underwriters and actuaries, who determine the type and the amount of risk that we are willing to accept. We have established qualification requirements and review procedures for our underwriting professionals. We employ detailed underwriting policies, guidelines and procedures designed to assist our underwriters to assess and quantify risks before issuing a policy to qualified applicants.

Our underwriters generally evaluate the risk characteristics of each prospective insured. Requests for coverage are reviewed on their merits, and generally a policy is not issued unless the particular risk or group has been examined and approved for underwriting.

We have different authorization limits and procedures depending on the amount of the claim. We also have authorization limits for personnel depending on their level of qualifications.

In order to maintain high standards of underwriting quality and consistency, we engage in a multilevel series of ongoing internal underwriting audits, and our reinsured business is subject to external audits by our reinsurers.

Individual and group product pricing reflects our insurance underwriting standards. Product pricing on insurance products is based on the expected payout of benefits, calculated through the use of assumptions for mortality, morbidity, persistency, expenses and investment returns, as well as certain macroeconomic factors such as inflation. Those assumptions include a margin for expected profitability and are based on our own experience and published data from other Chinese life insurance companies.

For more information on regulation of insurance products, see “—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation”.

We primarily offer products denominated in RMB.

Claims Management

We manage the claims we receive from policyholders through our claims management staff located in our headquarters and branch offices. Typically, claims are received by our employees or agents, who make a preliminary examination and forward them to our claims settlement team for further verification. If the claim is verified, the amount payable is calculated and, once approved, is distributed to the policyholder.

We manage claims management risk through organizational controls and computer systems controls. Our organizational controls include specified authorization limits for various operating levels, periodic andad hoc inspections at all levels of our organization, expense mechanisms linking payout ratios with expenses for short-term life insurance policies and requirements that, except for some health insurance claims under a certain amount, each claims examination be performed by two staff members. We also impose stringent requirements on the qualification and employment of claims management staff. Our claims management control procedures are supported by a computer processing system which is used for the verification and processing of claims.

Reinsurance

Statutory reinsurance

Under China’s insurance law and CIRC regulations, our predecessor was required to reinsure 20% of our insurance risks, other than those arising from life insurance products, with China Reinsurance (Group) Company, formerly known as China Reinsurance Company, as statutory reinsurer. The statutory reinsurance requirement is now being phased out. At the beginning of 2003, the percentage of accident and health insurance risks that our predecessor had to reinsure decreased by 5%, from 20% to 15%, and it is scheduled to decrease by a further 5% per year until it was phased out completely at the beginning of 2006.

Commercial reinsurance

In addition to our statutory reinsurance requirements since 1997 we have entered into various reinsurance agreements with China Life Reinsurance Company Limited, or China Life Re, formerly known as China Reinsurance Company, for the reinsurance of individual death risks, group risks and defined blocks of business. In general, death risks are primarily reinsured on a surplus basis, in which we are reinsured for losses above a specified amount. Under our internal reinsurance policy, we reinsure risks over RMB 1 million per person for life insurance, RMB 1 million per person for accident insurance and RMB 0.3 million per person for health insurance. Our group risks are reinsured on a percentage basis, and we decide which group policies are to be reinsured on a case by case basis. In general, our reinsurance agreements with China Life Re do not have a definite term, but may be terminated by either party at the end of a calendar year with advance notice of three to six months.

These reinsurance agreements spread the risk and reduce the effect on us of potential losses. Under the terms of the reinsurance agreements, the reinsurer agrees to reimburse us for the insured, or ceded, amount in the event the claim is paid. However, we remain liable to our policyholders for the ceded amount if the reinsurer fails to meet the obligations assumed by it.

As part of our life insurance business we also assume policies issued by other insurers. We have entered into three reinsurance agreements with three affiliated branches of a United States life insurance company in China that cover individual life insurance risks and risks of death and disability from accidental injuries.

Investments

As of December 31, 2005,2006, we had RMB 494,356686,804 million (US$61,25788,006 million) of investment assets. As required by China’s insurance laws and regulations, we invest insurance premiums, deposits and other funds we receive primarily in bank term deposits and structured term deposits; fixed maturity securities, including government securities, bonds issued by state-owned policy banks of the Chinese government, corporate bonds, bonds issued by financial institutions, convertible bonds and certain subordinated bonds and indebtedness; and policy loans andloans; securities investment funds primarily invested in equity securities issued by Chinese companies and traded on China’s securities exchanges, as well asexchanges; shares of companies listed on China’s stock markets, which are denominated and traded in Renminbi.Renminbi, as well as shares of Chinese companies listed on specified overseas stock exchanges. We also participate in bond repurchase activities through inter-bank repurchase markets and repurchase exchange markets. We were recently authorized to indirectly invest in domestic infrastructure projects and are currently in the processequity interest of applying for approval ofnon-listed Chinese commercial banks, and were authorized to make overseas investmentinvestments in qualified term deposits and debt securities and shares of Chinese companies listed on specified overseas stock exchanges.securities. We are prohibited from making other investments without the CIRC’s approval.

We direct and monitor our investment activities through the application of investment guidelines. Our investment guidelines include: (1) performance goals for the investment fund; (2) specified asset allocations and investment scope based on regulatory provisions, level of indebtedness and market forecasts; (3) specified goals for investment duration and asset-liability matching requirements based on asset-liability matching strategies; (4) specified authorization levels required for approval of significant investment projects; and (5) specified risk management policies and prohibitions. The investment guidelines are reviewed and approved by the investment decision committee annually.

Investment proposals typically originate from our investment management department, which is in charge of all of our investment assets. Investment proposals are reviewed by our risk management department for risk assessment and submitted to the investment decision committee for final approval.

TheAMC, the asset management joint venture established by us and our predecessor, CLIC, manages substantially all of our Renminbi investments following the restructuring and, separately, substantially all of the investments retained by CLIC. See “—Asset Management Business”. In connection with the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us a portion of its investment assets and specified other assets, and retained the remaining investment and other assets. See “—History and Development of the Company” and “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions”.

We own 60% of the asset management joint venture,AMC, with CLIC owning the remaining 40%. The board comprises fivesix members, including Miao Jianmin, Zhuang Zuojin, Liu Jiade, Wan Feng, Liu Huimin and Liu Huimin.Shi Yucheng.

The following table summarizes information concerning our investment assets as of December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2005.2006.

 

  As of December 31,   As of December 31, 
  2003 2004 2005   2004 2005 2006 
  

Carrying

value

  % of
total
 Carrying
value
  % of
total
 Carrying
value
  % of
total
   Carrying
value
  % of
total
 Carrying
value
  % of
total
 Carrying
value
  % of
total
 
  (RMB in millions, except as otherwise indicated)   (RMB in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Cash and cash equivalents

  42,616  15.3% 27,217  7.3% 28,051  5.7%  27,217  7.3% 28,051  5.7% 50,213  7.3%

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

  137,192  49.1% 170,698  45.5% 160,067  32.4%  170,698  45.5% 160,067  32.4% 170,830  24.9%

Structured deposits

  —    —    4,800  1.3% 4,802  1.0%  4,800  1.3% 4,802  1.0% 4,646  0.7%

Statutory deposits—restricted

  4,000  1.4% 4,000  1.1% 5,353  1.1%  4,000  1.1% 5,353  1.1% 5,353  0.8%

Debt securities, held-to-maturity

  —    —    79,603  21.2% 146,297  29.6%  79,603  21.2% 146,297  29.6% 176,559  25.7%

Debt Securities, available-for-sale

  —    —    —    —    96,425  19.5%  —    —    96,425  19.5% 176,868  25.8%

Debt securities, non-trading

  70,604  25.3% 69,791  18.6% —    —     69,791  18.6% —    —    —    —   

Debt securities, financial assets at fair value through income

  —    —    —    —    12,832  2.6%

Debt securities, financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  —    —    12,832  2.6% 4,471  0.6%

Debt securities, trading

     840  0.2% —    —     840  0.2% —    —    —    —   
                                      

Debt securities

  70,604  25.3% 150,234  40.0% 255,554  51.7%  150,234  40.0% 255,554  51.7% 357,898  52.1%
                                      

Policy loans

  116  0.0% 391  0.1% 981  0.2%  391  0.1% 981  0.2% 2,371  0.3%

Equity securities, available for sale

  —    —    —    —    26,261  5.3%  —    —    26,261  5.3% 62,595  9.1%

Equity securities, non-trading

  5,550  2.0% 12,597  3.4% —    —     12,597  3.4% —    —    —    —   

Equity securities, financial assets at fair value through income

  —    —    —    —    13,287  2.7%

Equity securities, financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  —    —    13,287  2.7% 32,898  4.8%

Equity securities, trading

  5,168  1.9% 4,674  1.2% —    —     4,674  1.2% —    —    —    —   
                                      

Equity securities

  10,718  3.9% 17,217  4.7% 39,548  8.0%  17,217  4.7% 39,548  8.0% 95,493  13.9%
                                      

Repurchase agreements

  14,002  5.0% 279  0.1% —    —     279  0.1% —    —    —    —   

Total investment assets

  279,248  100% 374,890  100% 494,356  100%  374,890  100% 494,356  100% 686,804  100%
                                      

Average cash and investment assets balance

  272,856   327,069   434,623    327,069   434,623   590,580  

Risk management

Our primary investment objective is to pursue optimal investment yields while considering macroeconomic factors, risk control and regulatory requirements. We are exposed to fourfive primary sources of investment risk:

 

interest rate risk, relating to the market price and cash flow variability associated with changes in interest rates;

 

credit risk, relating to the uncertainty associated with the continued ability of a given obligor to make timely payments of principal and interest;

 

market valuation risk, relating to the changes in market value for our investments, particularly our securities investment fund holdings and shares listed on the Chinese securities exchange, which are denominated and traded in Renminbi;

 

liquidity risk, relating to the lack of liquidity in many of the debt securities markets we invest in, due to contractual restrictions on transfer or the size of our investments in relation to the overall market; and

 

Currency

currency exchange risk, relating to the impact of changes in the value of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar and other currencies on the value of our investments.

Our investment assets are principally comprised of term deposits and fixed income securities and term deposits, and therefore changes in interest rates have a significant impact on the rate of our investment return. We manage interest rate risk through adjustments to our portfolio mix and terms, and by managing, to the extent possible, the average duration and maturity of our assets and liabilities. However, because of the general lack of long-term fixed income securities in the Chinese financial markets and the restrictions on

the types of investments we may make, the duration of some of our assets is lower than our liabilities. We believe that with the development of China’s financial markets and the gradual easing of our investment restrictions, our ability to match our assets to our liabilities will improve. Chinese financial markets currently do not provide an effective means for us to hedge our interest rate risk.

Because we are limited in the types of investments we may make, we believe we have relatively low credit risk. We monitor our credit risk through in-house fundamental analysis of the Chinese economy and the underlying obligors and transaction structures.

We are subject to market valuation risk, particularly because of the relative lack of stability of China’s bond and stock markets. We manage valuation risk through industry and issuer diversification and asset allocation.

Since substantially all of our investments are made in China, including term deposits with Chinese banks, debt securities, securities investment funds and shares listed on the Chinese securities exchange, which are denominated and traded in Renminbi, we are exposed to the effect of changes in the Chinese economy and other factors which affect the Chinese banking industry and securities markets.

We are also subject to market liquidity risk for many of the debt securities investments we make, due to the size of our investments in relation to the overall market. We manage liquidity risk through selection of liquid assets and through asset diversification. In addition, we view fundraising through repurchase agreements as a way of managing our short-term liquidity risk.

Our ability to manage our investment risks is limited by the investment restrictions placed on us and the lack of sophisticated investment vehicles in China’s capital markets. We understand that the CIRC is considering opening other investment channels to insurance companies, including mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities and infrastructure project financings.securities. We will consider these alternative ways of investing once they become available to us.

Our assets held in foreign currencies are subject to foreign exchange risks resulting from the fluctuations of the value of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar and other foreign currencies. We are seeking methods to reduce the foreign exchange risks.

Under China’s existing foreign exchange control regulations, the conversion of foreign currencies into the Renminbi requires approval of relevant government agencies. We obtained an approval to settle a portion of our assets held in foreign currencies into the Renminbi in 2005, which partially reduced the foreign exchange risks we are expose to. We did not obtain approval to settle any portion of our assets held in foreign currencies into the Renminbi in 2006 and there is no guarantee that we will be able to obtain any such approval in the future. If we do not obtain such approval, our ability to manage our foreign exchange risks may be limited. There are few financial products available in China to hedge foreign exchange risks, which substantially limits our ability to manage our foreign exchange risks.

The investment rates of return from foreign financial markets are expected to be comparatively higher than from the investments in Chinese markets. IfAs we are approved by the CIRC to invest our assets held in foreign currencies in overseas financial markets, the return from overseas investments could, to certain extent, reduce the foreign exchange risks we are exposed to.

For further information on our management of interest rate risk and market valuation risk, see “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk”.

Investment results

In the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us investment assets with a book value of RMB 212,452 million as of June 30, 2003. To the greatest extent practicable, investment assets

were divided in such a manner that the separated pools of assets and liabilities have the same portfolio composition and maturity characteristics. See “—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring—Transfer of Insurance Policies and Related Assets—Investment assets”.

Our investment yields for the years ended December 31,2005,31, 2006, 2005 and 2004 were 4.3%, 3.9% and 2003, which includes the investment yield for investments held by CLIC through September 30, 2003, was 3.9%3.5%, 3.5% and 3.4%.respectively.

The following table sets forth the yields on average assets for each component of our investment portfolios for the periods indicated.

 

  As of or for the years ended December 31,   As of or for the years ended December 31, 
  2003(1) 2004 2005   2004 2005 2006 
  Yield (2) Amount Yield (3) Amount Yield (3) Amount   Yield (1) Amount Yield (1) Amount Yield (1) Amount 
  (RMB in millions, except as otherwise indicated)   (RMB in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Cash, cash equivalents and term deposits:

              

Investment income

  3.6% 5,543  3.5% 6,744  3.9% 7,903   3.5% 6,744  3.9% 7,903  3.8% 8,207 

Ending assets: cash and cash equivalents

   42,616   27,217   28,051    27,217   28,051   50,213 

Ending assets: statutory deposits—restricted

   4,000   4,000   5,353    4,000   5,353   5,353 

Ending assets: term deposits

   137,192   175,498   164,869    175,498   164,869   175,476 
                          

Ending assets

   183,808   206,715   198,273    206,715   198,273   231,042 

Debt securities:

              

Investment income

  3.5% 2,793  3.4% 3,720  4.2% 8,429   3.4% 3,720  4.2% 8,429  4.0% 12,384 

Net realized gains/(losses)

   550   (317)  61    (317)  61   (6)
                          

Total

   3,343   3,403   8,490    3,403   8,490   12,378 

Ending assets

   70,604   150,234   255,554    150,234   255,554   375,898 

Policy loans:

              

Investment income

  4.4% 4  4.3% 11  3.2% 22   4.3% 11  3.2% 22  4.8% 80 

Ending assets

   116   391   981    391   981   2,371 

Equity securities:

              

Investment income

  2.4% 312  4.6% 646  1.7% 494   4.6% 646  1.7% 494  9.3% 4,662 

Net realized gains/(losses)

   318   80   (571)   80   (571)  1,601 
                          

Total

   630   726   (77)   726   (77)  6,263 

Ending assets

   10,718   17,271   39,548    17,271   39,548   95,493 

Resale and repurchase agreements:

              

Resale agreements:

              

Investment income

  2.6% 1,121  3.5% 253  2.2% 3   3.5% 253  2.2% 3  N/A  23 

Net realized gains/(losses)

   —     —     —      —     —     —   
                          

Total

   1,121   253   3    253   3   23 

Ending assets

   14,002   279   —      279   —     —   

Repurchase agreements:

              

Total

   (7)  (10)  (70)   (10)  (70)  (270)

Ending assets

   6,448   —     4,731    —     4,731   8,227 

Investments in associates(4):

       

Investments in associates:

       

Investment income/(losses)

  1.6% 16  —    —    —    —     —    —    —    —    —    —   

Ending assets

   —     —     —      —     —     6,071 

Investment properties(4)(5):

       

Investment income

  4.0% 58  —    —    —    —   

Ending assets

   —     —     —   

Other investments(4):

       

Investment income

  4.5% 10  —    —    —    —   

Ending assets

   —     —     —   

Total investments:

              

Net investment income(5)

  3.4% 9,825  3.5% 11,317  3.9% 16,685 

Net investment income

  3.5% 11,317  3.9% 16,685  4.3% 24,942 

Net realized gains/(losses)

   868   (237)  (510)   (237)  (510)  1,595 

(1)Includes the investments held by CLIC through September 30, 2003.

(2)

Yields for 2003 are calculated as the weighted average (weighted according to the amount of investment income for the relevant periods) of the yields for the first three quarters of CLIC (without giving effect to the restructuring) and the fourth quarter of China Life of 2003. The yields for such periods were calculated by dividing the investment income of CLIC or

China Life for the relevant nine or three-month period by the average of the ending balances for that nine or three-month period and the previous nine or three-month period.

(3)Yields for 2004, 2005, and 20052006 are calculated by dividing the investment income for that year by the average of the ending balances of that year and the previous year.

(4)Investments made by CLIC pursuant to special approval of the State Council or by CLIC’s predecessor prior to the enactment of the PRC insurance law in 1995 and which CLIC was allowed to retain. These investments are not now permitted under the PRC insurance law and were retained by CLIC following the restructuring.

(5)Investment properties are not booked as a part of investment assets, but as a part of fixed assets. Income derived from investment properties is recorded as investment income.

Term deposits

Term deposits consist principally of term deposits with Chinese commercial banking institutions and represented 25.5% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2006, 33.4% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2005, and 46.8% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2004, and 49.1% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2003.2004.

We generally make term deposits with state-owned commercial banks and large joint stock commercial banks. The terms of the term deposits vary. Substantially all of them carry variable interest rates which are linked to deposit rates set by the People’s Bank of China from time to time, thus providing us with a measure of protection against rising interest rates and, for a significant portion of them, the variable interest rates also cannot fall below a fixed guaranteed rate. They typically allow us to renegotiate terms with the banks upon prepayment, including calculations methods for accrued interest, if any. Term deposits must be greater than RMB 30 million and have a deposit period of longer than five years. We make term deposits to obtain higher yields than can ordinarily be obtained with regular deposits.

The following table sets forth term deposits and structured term deposits by contractual maturity dates, as of the dates indicated.

 

  As of December 31,  As of December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2004  2005  2006
  Amortized
cost
  Amortized
cost
  Amortized
cost
  

Amortized

cost

  

Amortized

cost

  

Amortized

cost

  (RMB in millions)  (RMB in millions)

Due in one year or less

  2,349  7,805  10,563  7,805  10,563  57,930

Due after one year and through five years

  121,443  146,293  147,504  146,293  147,504  111,901

Due after five years and through ten years

  12,400  17,503  3,502  17,503  3,502  3,421

Due after ten years

  1,000  3,897  3,300  3,897  3,300  2,224
                  

Total term deposits and structured term deposits

  137,192  175,498  164,869  175,498  164,869  175,476
                  

The following table sets forth term deposits and structured term deposits outstanding to Chinese banking institutions as of the dates indicated.

 

   As of December 31,
   2003  2004  2005
   Amortized
cost
  Amortized
cost
  Amortized
cost
   (RMB in millions)

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China

  23,121  24,076  23,416

Agriculture Bank of China

  8,927  10,833  11,278

Bank of China

  20,304  19,817  19,964

China Construction Bank

  5,945  3,087  2,148

Other banks

  78,895  117,685  108,063
         

Total term deposits and structured term deposits

  137,192  175,498  164,869
         

   As of December 31,
   2004  2005  2006
   

Amortized

cost

  

Amortized

cost

  

Amortized

cost

   (RMB in millions)

Industrial & Commercial Bank of China

  24,076  23,416  24,093

Agriculture Bank of China

  10,833  11,278  18,079

Bank of China

  19,817  19,964  17,519

China Construction Bank

  3,087  2,148  1,845

Other banks

  117,685  108,063  113,940
         

Total term deposits and structured term deposits

  175,498  164,869  175,476
         

We started to make structured deposits in foreign currencies with commercial banks in 2004. Structured deposits represented 1.0%0.7% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2005.2006.

A structured deposit is a term deposit combined with an opportunity of enhanced returns, which is usually linked to a certain financial market index. The bank providing this service has the right to terminate the structured deposit at its discretion.

Debt securities

Debt securities consist of Chinese government bonds, Chinese government agency bonds, Chinese corporate bonds issued by Chinese commercial banks and subordinated bonds and indebtedness, and represented 52.1% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2006, 51.7% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2005, and 40.0% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2004, and 25.3% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2003.2004.

Based on estimated fair value, Chinese government bonds, Chinese government agency bonds, Chinese corporate bonds and subordinated bonds/debts comprised 34.1%, 44.5%, 17.4% and 4.0% of our total available-for-sale debt securities as of December 31, 2006, respectively, 51.8%, 31.8%, 11.7% and 4.7% of our total available for-saleavailable-for-sale debt securities as of December 31, 2005, respectively, and 56.7%, 37.9%, 5.4% and nil of our total non-trading debt securities as of December 31, 2004, respectively, and 55.9%, 38.0%, 6.1% and nil of our total non-trading debt securities as of December 31, 2003, respectively,respectively. Except for a few series of our debt securities, which collectively had a carrying value of RMB 4,07226,208 million (US$505 3,358 million) as of December 31, 2005,2006, most of our debt securities are publicly traded on stock exchange or in the over-the-counter market in China.

The government bonds are sovereign debt of the Chinese government. The government agency bonds are bonds issued by Chinese policy banks. We invest in bonds issued by Chinese commercial banks as well as corporate bonds rated AA or above by the rating agencies recognized by the CIRC, such as China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd and Dadong Global Credit Rating Agency. Subordinated bonds and indebtedness we invest in are mainly the subordinated bonds and indebtedness issued by Chinese commercial banks.

Chengxin International was created by a consortium of companies including Fitch Ratings and International Finance Company. Chengxin International provides ratings on both companies and securities, including insurance companies, securities firms, commercial banks and corporate bonds. AAA is the highest of ten rating categories. Dagong provides ratings on both companies and securities, including insurance companies, commercial banks, mutual funds and long-term and short-term debts.

AAA is the highest of nine rating categories. China has other approved rating agencies, such as China Lianhe and Shanghai Far East, both of which have similar rating structures. Ratings given by these entities are not directly comparable to ratings given by U.S. rating agencies.

The following table sets forth the amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities, as of the dates indicated.

 

  As of December 31,   As of December 31, 
  2003 2004 2005   2004 2005 2006 
  Amortized
cost
  % of
total
 Estimated
fair value
  % of
total
 Amortized
cost
  % of
total
 Estimated
fair value
  % of
total
 Amortized
cost
  % of
total
 Estimated
fair value
  % of
total
   Amortized
cost
  % of
total
 

Estimated

fair value

  

% of

total

 Amortized
cost
  % of
total
 Estimated
fair value
  % of
total
 Amortized
cost
  % of
total
 Estimated
fair value
  % of
total
 
  (RMB in millions)   (RMB in millions) 

Debt securities, available –for-sale/non-trading:

                                      

Government bonds

  40,449  56.0% 39,477  55.9% 43,871  28.2% 39,612  26.3% 49,180  19.3% 49,922  18.7%  43,871  28.2% 39,612  26.3% 49,180  19.3% 49,922  18.7% 60,058  16.8% 60,352  16.3%

Government agency bonds

  27,234  37.7% 26,817  38.0% 26,645  17.2% 26,438  17.6% 30,776  12.1% 30,662  11.5%  26,645  17.2% 26,438  17.6% 30,776  12.1% 30,662  11.5% 78,300  21.9% 78,721  21.3%
                         

Corporate bonds

  4,508  6.3% 4,310  6.1% 4,292  2.8% 3,741  2.5% 10,806  4.2% 11,315  4.2%  4,292  2.8% 3,741  2.5% 10,806  4.2% 11,315  4.2% 31,001  8.7% 30,752  8.3%
                                     

Subordinated bonds/debts

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    4,458  1.8% 4,526  1.7%  —    —    —    —    4,458  1.8% 4,526  1.7% 7,068  2.0% 7,043  1.9%
                                                                          

Total debt securities, available-for-sale/ non-trading

  72,191  100.0% 70,604  100.0% 74,808  48.2% 69,791  46.4% 95,220  37.4% 96,425  36.1%  74,808  48.2% 69,791  46.4% 95,220  37.4% 96,425  36.1% 176,427  49.4% 176,868  47.8%
                                     

Debt securities, held to maturity:

                                      

Government bonds

  —    —    —    —    52,512  33.9% 52,434  34.8% 90,067  35.4% 98,706  37.0%  52,512  33.9% 52,434  34.8% 90,067  35.4% 98,706  37.0% 94,999  26.6% 102,764  27.9%

Government agency bonds

  —    —    —    —    4,942  3.2% 4,888  3.3% 28,609  11.2% 30,247  11.3%  4,942  3.2% 4,888  3.3% 28,609  11.2% 30,247  11.3% 53,935  15.1% 56,333  15.2%
                         

Corporate bonds

  —    —    —    —    2,714  1.7% 2,782  1.9% 3,257  1.3% 3,567  1.3%  2,714  1.7% 2,782  1.9% 3,257  1.3% 3,567  1.3% 3,257  0.9% 3,553  1.0%

Subordinated bonds/debts

  —    —    —    —    19,435  12.5% 19,616  13.0% 24,364  9.6% 25,265  9.5%  19,435  12.5% 19,616  13.0% 24,364  9.6% 25,265  9.5% 24,368  6.8% 25,642  6.9%
                                                                          

Total debt securities, held to maturity

  —    —    —    —    79,603  51.3% 79,720  53.0% 146,297  57.5% 157,785  59.1%  79,603  51.3% 79,720  53.0% 146,297  57.5% 157,785  59.1% 176,559  49.4% 188,292  51.0%
                                                                          

Debt securities, financial assets at fair value through income/trading

                   

Debt securities, financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)/trading

                   

Government bonds

  —    —    —    —    829  0.5% 840  0.6% 3,229  1.3% 3,229  1.2%  829  0.5% 840  0.6% 3,229  1.3% 3,229  1.2% 148  0.0% 148  0.0%

Government agency bonds

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    7,116  2.8% 7,116  2.7%  —    —    —    —    7,116  2.8% 7,116  2.7% 1,915  0.5% 1,915  0.5%

Corporate bonds

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    1,759  0.7% 1,759  0.7%  —    —    —    —    1,759  0.7% 1,759  0.7% 2,083  0.6% 2,083  0.6%

Subordinated bonds/debts

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    728  0.3% 728  0.2%  —    —    —    —    728  0.3% 728  0.2% 325  0.1% 325  0.1%
                                                                          

Total debt securities, financial assets at fair value through income/trading

  —    —    —    —    829  0.5% 840  0.6% 12,832  5.1% 12,832  4.8%

Total debt securities, financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)/trading

  829  0.5% 840  0.6% 12,832  5.1% 12,832  4.8% 4,471  1.2% 4,471  1.2%
                                                                          

Total debt securities

  72,191  100% 70,604  100% 155,240  100% 150,351  100% 254,349  100% 267,042  100%  155,240  100% 150,351  100% 254,349  100% 267,042  100% 357,457  100% 369,631  100%
                                                                          

The following table shows the amortized cost and estimated fair value of debt securities excluding financial assets at fair value through income/tradingincome (held-for-trading/trading) securities by contractual maturity dates, as of the dates indicated.

 

  As of December 31,  As of December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2004  2005  2006
  Amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  (RMB in millions)  (RMB in millions)

Due in one year or less

  1,652  1,642  1,145  1,147  2,715  2,737  1,145  1,147  2,715  2,737  7,518  7,569

Due after one year and through five years

  12,949  13,087  51,487  51,183  50,918  53,251  51,487  51,183  50,918  53,251  78,147  81,361

Due after five years and through ten years

  36,874  36,460  75,755  73,868  91,642  97,249  75,755  73,868  91,642  97,249  97,556  100,274

Due after ten years

  20,716  19,415  26,024  23,313  96,242  100,973  26,024  23,313  96,242  100,973  169,765  175,956
                                    

Total debt securities

  72,191  70,604  154,411  149,511  241,517  254,210  154,411  149,511  241,517  254,210  352,986  365,160
                                    

Under the CIRC’s regulations, our investments in each of corporate bonds, including short-term financing debts and convertible bonds, as well as financial bonds and subordinated bonds issued by commercial banks, at any given time may not exceed 30% of our total assets as of the end of the preceding quarter, respectively. We diversify our corporate bonds by industry and issuer. Our corporate bond portfolio does not have significant exposure to a single industry or issuer.

Problem and restructured debt securities

We monitor debt securities to identify investments that management considers to be problems. We also monitor investments that have been restructured.

We define problem securities in the debt securities category as securities to which principal or interest payments are in default or are to be restructured pursuant to commenced negotiations, or as securities issued by a debtor that has subsequently entered liquidation.

We define restructured securities in the debt securities category as securities to which we have granted a concession that we would not have otherwise considered but for the financial difficulties of the obligor or issuer.

None of our debt securities is classified as either a problem security or a restructured security.

Policy loans

We offer interest-bearing policy loans to our policyholders, who may borrow from us at total amounts up to 70% of the cash surrender values of their policies. In general, the loans are secured by the policyholders’ rights under the policies. As of December 31, 2005,2006, the total amount of our policy loans was RMB 9812,371 million (US$122304 million), and represented 0.2%0.3% of our total investment assets as of that date.

Securities investment funds

Securities investment funds consist of Chinese domestic investment funds that primarily invest in securities that are issued by Chinese companies and traded on China’s securities exchanges, and represented 6.8%6.6% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2005.2006.

We invest in both “closed-end” securities investment funds, in which the number of shares is fixed and the share value depends on the trading value, and “open-end” securities investment funds, in which the number of shares issued by the fund fluctuates and the share value is set by the value of the assets held by the fund. Under the CIRC’s regulations, investment holdings in securities investment funds during any given month, based on the cost of investment, may not exceed 15% of the total assets of an insurance company as of the end of the proceeding month. In addition, investment holdings in a single securities investment fund during any given month may not exceed 3% of total assets of the company as of the end of the proceeding month, and no investment in any single “closed-end” securities investment fund may exceed 10% of that fund. Our holdings in securities investment funds comply with those restrictions.

The following table presents the carrying values of investments in open-end and closed-end securities investment funds as of the dates indicated.

   As of December 31, 
   2003  2004  2005 
   Carrying
value
  % of
total
  Carrying
value
  % of
total
  Carrying
value
  % of
total
 
   (RMB in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Open-end

  5,168  48.2% 12,597  72.9% 25,114  74.9%

Closed-end

  5,550  51.8% 4,674  27.1% 8,408  25.1%
                   

Total

  10,718  100% 17,271  100% 33,522  100%
                   

We recorded an impairment charge of RMB 651 million (US$81 million)in 2005 in respect of certain open-ended investment funds we purchased in previous years at a higher price.

   As of December 31, 
   2004  2005  2006 
   Carrying
value
  % of
total
  Carrying
value
  % of
total
  Carrying
value
  % of
total
 
   (RMB in millions, except as otherwise indicated) 

Open-end

  12,597  72.9% 25,114  74.9% 33,006  72.9%

Closed-end

  4,674  27.1% 8,408  25.1% 12,245  27.1%
                   

Total

  17,271  100% 33,522  100% 45,251  100%
                   

Stocks

In March 2005, we were approved by the CIRC to invest in publicly offered and listed equity securities that are denominated and traded in Renminbi. We may hold no more than 10% of the total

public portion or 5% of the total equity, whichever is lower, in any one listed company, and may not invest in a listed company or any of its affiliates if the listed company holds directly or indirectly 10% or more of our shares. See “—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Regulation of investments”. As of December 31, 2005,2006, the total amount of our investment in common stocks was RMB 6,02250,185 million (US$7466,431 million), and represented 1.2%7.3% of our total investment assets as of that date. We invested approximately US$250 million in H shares of China Construction Bank Corporation at its initial public offering in 2005.2005, a portion of which was sold early 2006. We have also agreed to subscribe for such number ofinvested approximately HK$1.175 billion in H shares of Bank of China Limited that may be purchased for approximately HK$1,163 million duringin its initial public offering atin May 2006, approximately RMB 3,252 million (US$417 million) in the targeted offering price.of CITIC Securities Co., Ltd. in June 2006, approximately HK$2 billion in H shares of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited in its initial public offering in October 2006 and approximately US$433 million and RMB 2,282 million (US$292 million) in Guangdong Development Bank in December 2006.

Repurchase and resale agreements

We enter into repurchase and resale agreements, which consist of securities repurchase and resell activities in repurchase and resell markets. Securities purchased under agreements to resell represented 0.1% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2004. We did not have securities purchased under agreements to resell as of December 31, 2005. Securities purchased under agreements to resell represented 0.1%2005 and 5.0% of our total investment assets as of December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively.2006.

Information Technology

Our information technology systems provide support to many aspects of our businesses, including product development, sales and marketing, business management, cost control and risk control. Our information technology systems are comprised ofinclude a core operation system, a data services platform, an actuarial system, a sales management system, a marketing support system, an intermediary business processing system, an e-commerce system, a core operation system, an agent management information system, a customer service system, an accounting and financial management system, a risk management system, an investment management system and an office automation, or OA, system. We plan to further improve our back-up systems to reduce the risk of system failures and the impacts these failures may have on our business. Our information technology systems are supported by approximately 1,600 experienced engineers, technicians and specialists, which we believe is the largest professional staff in the Chinese life insurance industry.

In 2005,2006, we continued to consolidateincrease our investment in information technology, raising the establishmentstandards of the information technology applications and promotionservices. In the course of our core operatingupgrading the effectiveness and steadiness of the information technology application system, China Life Core Operating System, and we implemented the CBPS8 version of our business processing system at our branches of provincial level. We also initiatedcompleted the development of the corporate annuity system, re-insurance system, health and short-term accident insurance system, internet sales system and corporate annuitysales agent management system, business grant audit system, assets and liabilities assessment system, investment and risk management system, and continued to refine the financial management system and customer service system. In addition, we devoted substantial efforts to our data concentration project. Our operation maintenance platform was further improved in order to standardize our operation maintenance system. In order to gradually build up a flexible IT infrastructure framework, we enhanced our infrastructure facilities, network and security elements. In 2005, we also expanded cooperation with international reputable IT entities and entered into an IT strategic cooperation agreement with Microsoft for the formation of strategic partnership relationship.

We continued to constructcentralize the value-addeddatabase and completed the promotion of CBPS8 version, enabling the centralization of data service platformat provincial level, and work towards data centralization in the headquarter. We plan to provide better supportestablish in Shanghai a data processing center which will contain and process all the data relating to our management decision making.core business. We have selected the location for this center and completed the signing of the relevant project contracts. We also plan to establish in Beijing a research and development center for researching our information technology systems and have selected the location for this center. We expect the center to be established in the next two years.

In 2007, we became a member of the Association for Cooperative Operations Research and Development (“ACORD”), which is a global and non-profit insurance association whose mission is to facilitate the development and use of standards for the insurance, reinsurance and related financial services industries. We will work with ACORD to improve and upgrade our information technology systems to achieve the standards established by ACORD.

Trademarks

We conduct our business under the “China Life” brand name (in English and Chinese), the “ball” logos and other business related slogans and logos. One of the “ball” logoCLIC owns these trademarks and has been registered in the PRC and CLIC has filed applications to register the trademarks in the “China Life” name (in English and Chinese), the other “ball” logo and other business related slogans and logosthem with the Trademark Office underof the SAIC. CLIC has entered into a trademark license agreement with us, under which CLIC has agreed to grant us a royalty-free license to use these trademarks. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions—Trademark License Agreement”.

Regulatory and Related Matters

Development of regulatory framework

The PRC insurance law was enacted in 1995. It provided the initial framework for regulating the domestic insurance industry. Among the steps taken under the 1995 insurance law were the following:

 

  

Licensing of insurance companies and insurance intermediaries, such as agents and brokers. The 1995 insurance law established requirements for minimum registered capital levels, form of organization, qualification of senior management and the adequacy of the information systems for insurance companies and insurance agencies and brokers.

 

  

Separation of property and casualty insurance businesses and life insurance businesses. The 1995 insurance law classified insurance between property, casualty, liability and credit insurance businesses, on the one hand, and life, accident and health insurance businesses on the other, and prohibited companies from engaging in both types of businesses.

 

  

Regulation of market conduct by participants. The 1995 insurance law prohibited fraudulent and other unlawful conduct by insurance companies, agencies and brokers.

 

  

Substantive regulation of insurance products. The 1995 insurance law gave insurance regulators the authority to approve the policy terms and premium rates for certain insurance products.

 

  

Financial condition and performance of insurance companies. The 1995 insurance law established reserve and solvency standards for insurance companies, imposed restrictions on investment powers and established mandatory reinsurance requirements, and put in place a reporting regime to facilitate monitoring by insurance regulators.

  

Supervisory and enforcement powers of the principal regulatory authority.The principal regulatory authority, then the People’s Bank of China, was given broad powers under the 1995 insurance law to regulate the insurance industry.

Establishment of the China Insurance Regulatory Commission and 2002 amendments to insurance law

China’s insurance regulatory regime was strengthened further with the establishment of the CIRC in 1998. The CIRC was given the mandate to implement reform in the insurance industry, minimize insolvency risk for Chinese insurers and promote the development of the insurance market. The PRC insurance law was also significantly amended in 2002.

Since its establishment, the CIRC has promulgated a series of regulations indicating a gradual shift in the regulatory approach to a more transparent regulatory process and a convergent movement toward international standards. Significant changes include:

 

more stringent reserve and solvency requirements and their disclosure;

 

the increase in the level of disclosures required to be made to the CIRC by insurance companies;

greater freedom for insurance companies to develop products to meet market needs, with a significant reduction in the items which require the CIRC’s approval;

 

broader investment powers for insurance companies, including allowing insurers to make equity investments in insurance-related enterprises, such as asset management companies;

 

tightening of market conduct regulation and increased penalties for violations;

 

phasing out of mandatory reinsurance by the beginning of 2006; and

 

reduction of barriers to entry, including allowing property and casualty insurers to enter the accident and short-term health insurance business.

Insurance Company Regulation

The CIRC.The CIRC has extensive supervisory authority over insurance companies, including:

 

promulgation of regulations applicable to the insurance industry;

 

examination of insurance companies;

 

establishment of investment regulations;

 

approving the policy terms and premium rates for certain insurance products;

 

setting of standards for measuring the financial soundness of insurance companies;

requiring insurance companies to submit reports concerning their business operations and condition of assets; and

 

ordering the suspension of all or part of an insurance company’s business.

Licensing requirements.requirements. An insurance company is required to obtain a license from the CIRC in order to engage in an insurance business. In general, a license will be granted only if the company can meet prescribed registered capital requirements and other specified requirements, including requirements relating to its form of organization, the qualifications of its senior management and actuarial staff, the adequacy of its information systems and specifications relating to the insurance products to be offered. Our headquarters and all of our branch offices have obtained the requisite insurance licenses.

The CIRC may grant a life insurer a license to offer all or part of the following products: accident insurance, term life insurance, whole life insurance, annuities, short-term and long-term health insurance, endowment insurance (for individuals only) and other personal insurance approved by the CIRC, as well as reinsurance relating to any of the foregoing.

An insurance company may seek approval for establishing branch offices to meet its business needs so long as it meets minimum capital and other requirements. Our headquarters and substantially all of our branch offices have obtained business licenses.

Minimum capital requirements. Under newly implemented insurance company regulations, the minimum paid-in capital for an insurance company is RMB 200 million. For an insurance company

whose registered capital is RMB 200 million, the minimum incremental capital for each first branch office in a province other than the province where it is located is RMB 20 million. No additional capital will be required when the paid-in capital has reached RMB 500 million, and the insurer’s solvency levelmargin is sound.

Restriction of ownership in joint stock insurance companies. Any acquisition of shares which results in the acquirer owning 10% or more of the registered capital of a joint stock insurance company, whether or not listed, requires the approval of the CIRC. A filing with the CIRC is needed with respect to a change of equity interest of less than 10% in an insurance company, unless it is a listed insurance company. Except for insurance holding companies or insurance companies otherwise approved by the CIRC, an individual entity, including its affiliates, may not hold more than a 20% equity interest in an insurance company including any company which issues shares to the public and lists in China. The combined equity interests held by foreign investors may not exceed 25% of the total equity of a single insurance company, unless the investee company is a listed company. An insurance company must provide a written report to the CIRC specifying whether there is any known affiliated relationship between its shareholders. In addition, except for listed companies, when the equity of an insurance company collectively owned by foreign entities exceeds 25%, the company shall be governed by regulations governing foreign-invested insurance companies. Except in the context of a public offering or as otherwise permitted by law or with the prior approval of the State Council inof China, no bank or securities company may invest in an insurance company.

Fundamental changes. Prior approval must be obtained from the CIRC before specified fundamental changes relating to a Chinese insurance company may occur. These include:

 

a change of organizational form and change in registered capital;

 

a merger or spin-off;

a transfer of a 10% or more equity interest in the company;

 

a termination of branch offices; and

 

a dissolution or bankruptcy of the company.

In addition, certain other changes relating to the insurance company must be reviewed by or filed with the CIRC.

Directors and senior management qualification requirements.Directors and senior management of an insurance company are subject to a set of qualification requirements implemented by the CIRC in September 2006. Prior to an appointment of a director or a member of senior management, an application has to be submitted to the CIRC for the CIRC to verify such person’s qualifications. Appointment of managers of sub-branches and field offices must be reported to the CIRC. Any appointment of directors and senior management without being verified by the CIRC as required is void.

Regulation of insurance and annuity products generally.The 1995 insurance law provided that the basic terms and premiums of the principal commercial insurance and annuity products offered by an insurance company will be set by a governmental authority (which today is the CIRC).

The 2002 amendment to the insurance law changed the manner in which insurance products were regulated, giving insurance companies greater freedom to develop products to meet market needs. Under the 2002 amendment, the terms and the rates for premiums and policy fees of non-traditional life insurance and annuity products, insurance products that affect social and public welfare and insurance products that are mandatorily required by statute, are required to be submitted to the CIRC for approval. In determining whether or not to approve a product, the CIRC is required to consider whether the product adequately provides for the protection of social and public welfare and whether it will lead to inappropriate competition. Other insurance products are required to be filed with the CIRC. In general, the CIRC requires insurance companies to price their products based on mortality rate, interest rate and policy expense and commission assumptions. The assumed mortality rates are based on experience tables

applicable to the PRC life insurance industry. The assumed interest rates represent the insurance company’s expectation of its investment returns, subject to CIRC regulations, and the assumed policy expenses and commissions are based on its assessment of its operating and sales expenses, which is also subject to CIRC regulations.

Regulation of participating products. A participating product is one which the policyholder or annuitant is entitled to share in the distributable earnings of the insurer through “policy dividends”. The participation dividend may be in the form of a cash payment or an increase in the insured amount. Not less than 70% of the distributable earnings is required to be distributed as dividends. Participating products may not be sold or modified without the prior approval of the CIRC. Policyholders and annuitants purchasing participating products must be given, prior to purchase, an explanatory statement that explains the nature and special characteristics of the products, any fees due under the products, the method for allocating dividends under the product policy and the risks to the policyholder or annuitant from holding the product. Insurance companies are required to present in their sales promotional materials three scenarios covering high, medium and low returns for illustration. They are prohibited from making public announcements about the returns of their participating products and from making comparisons with participating, universal or investment-linked products offered by other insurance companies. If cash dividends are to be paid on participating products, the insurance company may not use rates of return or like ratios to describe the dividend.

An insurance company that offers participating products is required to have a computer system that can support these kinds of products, and the agents who sell these products are required to complete a training course designed specially for these products. Investment accounts for participating products are required to be segregated from those of non-participating products as well as from those of supplemental insurance that is added to the participating products.

Insurance companies offering participating products are required to file an annual report with the CIRC. The insurance company is also required to provide a performance report to the holders of its participating products at least once a year, setting forth specified financial and other information regarding the products.

Regulation of investment-linked products. An investment-linked product is one which insures the policyholder or annuitant against one or more separate risks and at the same time gives the policyholder or annuitant an interest in one or more separate investment accounts. Investment-linked products may not be sold or amended without the prior approval of the CIRC.

Persons purchasing an investment-linked product must be given, prior to purchase, an explanatory statement that explains the nature and special characteristics of the policy, the risks to the purchaser of holding the product, the investment strategy of the separate investment account, the investment account’s performance for the past ten years (or, if shorter, since the date of inception), the applicable fees payable under the product policy and how they are determined, the method of valuation of the assets in the investment account and the future policy or contract value which may accrue from the investment account. Insurance companies are required to present three scenarios covering high, medium and low returns for illustration.

The establishment of separate investment accounts is subject to the CIRC’s approval. Transactions between a separate investment account and any other account of the insurance company, other than a transfer of cash to pay for operating expenses of the separate investment account, are prohibited.

The insurance law prohibits investment managers of a separate investment account from engaging in an investment management business similar in nature to the management of the investment account, enter into transactions with the investment account or take any action which adversely affects the investment account. Agents who sell investment-linked products are required to pass a training course designed specially for these products.

An insurance company offering products with separate investment accounts is required to evaluate monthly the unit value of each investment account and publish a semi-annual notice which includes the financial condition of each investment account, the investment returns in the past five years (or, if shorter, since the date of inception), the investment portfolio as of the date of the report, the management fees charged in the report period and any change in the investment strategy or policy during the period. The insurance company is required to provide an annual report to the holders setting forth information regarding the product.

An insurance company offering products with separate investment accounts is required to submit to the CIRC annual financial reports regarding the investment accounts. In addition, the insurance company must notify the CIRC if on any day the net redemptions from an investment account exceed 1% or more of the total value of the account on the previous day. If the cumulative redemptions since the beginning of a fiscal year reach or exceed 30% of the value of the account at the beginning of the year, or if there have been sustained losses which the investment manager believes to be irreversible or will probably cause serious harm to the interests of policyholders, the insurance company may seek the approval of the CIRC to close the investment account.

Regulation of insurance companies as trustees of enterprise pension funds. Under newlytrial measures implemented trial measuresin 2004 on the management of enterprise pension funds, insurance companies that meet certain specified standards may be approved by the CIRC and the Ministry of Labor and Social Security to serve as trustees of pension funds established by qualified enterprises. To qualify as a trustee, the insurance company must maintain a net asset value of not less than RMB150 million at all times. The trustee may also serve as account manager or investment manager for the same fund, provided that it has relevant qualifications and can maintain the independence of these different functions. A trustee must regularly report to the relevant regulators on matters relating to the management of the enterprise pension fund. The trustee must also submit quarterly and annual fund management reports containing audited financial reports to the enterprise.

Regulation of health insurance. Pursuant to the newly implemented health insurance rules issued by the CIRC in August 2006, life insurance companies and health insurance companies established in accordance with applicable laws may, subject to verification by the CIRC, engage in health insurance business. Other insurance companies may, subject to verification by the CIRC, engage in short-term health insurance business.

From January 1, 2007, sale of health insurance products which fail to comply with the specified product requirements set forth in the newly implemented health insurance rules is prohibited. In addition, insurance companies engaged in health insurance business must establish actuarial, accounting calculation, underwriting and other required internal systems by January 1, 2008.

Insurance companies engaged in health insurance business are required to submit an actuarial report or reserve assessment report for the preceding year in accordance with the relevant provisions of the CIRC. Insurance companies must also submit a pricing review report to the CIRC before March 15 of each year regarding the short-term health insurance products, as well as the claims and payments for the short-term health insurance products available for sale for more than one year in the preceding year.

Foreign exchange denominated insurance. Insurance companies may seek approval from the CIRC and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange to engage in foreign exchange denominated insurance and reinsurance businesses. This will allow life insurance companies to offer products to non-Chinese policyholders or for non-Chinese beneficiaries, as well as policies covering accidents and illnesses which occur outside China, together with related reinsurance.

Reporting and disclosure requirements. Within the prescribed time period following the end of a fiscal year, an insurance company must submit to the CIRC, among other disclosures, an annual report with audited financial statements and an annual report setting forth its solvency levelmargin as of the end of the fiscal year, and other regulatory monitoring items. When the insurance company’s solvency levelmargin falls below the minimum solvency requirement, the CIRC also may require the insurance company to file a corrective plan to bring it into compliance with the requirement.

Internal Control Assessment.In January 2006, the CIRC issued tentative rules on internal control assessment of life insurance companies in order to facilitate and supervise the companies in order to improve their awareness of, and strengthen their controls over, matters such as corporate governance in management, internal controls, regulatory compliance in operations and risk management.

Under these rules, the internal control assessments shall include a self-assessment by the life insurance companies as well as an independent assessment by the CIRC. Life insurance companies must submit to the CIRC an internal control assessment form and an

annual internal control assessment report by March 15 each year. The CIRC will assess the internal control of life insurance companies within every three years, covering at least one third of the life insurance companies each year.

We are among the companies expected to bewere reviewed by the CIRC in 2006.2006 and were found to be in general compliance with the rules and regulation of CIRC, other than a small number of breaches by our branches which resulted in us being sanctioned by way of fines, none of which were material. The breaches mainly included the improper handling of certain premiums received, which violated relevant CIRC rules and regulations. The fines imposed by CIRC ranged from RMB 20,000 (US$2,563) to RMB 500,000 (US$64,069). All the fines have been paid in full.

Statutory reinsurance. All insurance companies were required to reinsure 5% of the risks insured under insurance policies, other than life insurance products, underwritten by them. This requirement began to be phased out beginning in 2003 and was abolished entirely at the beginning of 2006. Insurance companies are required to reinsure, for any single risk, the excess of the maximum potential liability over an amount equal to 10% of the sum of paid-in capital and capital reserves.

Regulation of issuance of subordinated indebtedness. Beginning in September 2004, insurance companies that meet a series of qualification tests and are approved by the CIRC may issue subordinated indebtedness with a fixed term of at least five years to certain qualified Chinese legal persons and foreign investors. The audited net asset value of the issuer must be at least RMB500 million as of the end of the prior year and the total amount of the unpaid indebtedness at any given point after the issuance, including both principal and interest, must not exceed the issuer’s net asset value as of the end of the prior year. The issuer must fulfill a set of disclosure obligations both at the time of the issuance and during the term of the indebtedness. The issuer may repay the indebtedness only if its solvency ratio remains at least 100% after the repayment of both principal and the interest.

Regulation of establishment of overseas insurance institutions. An insurance company may apply to the CIRC for approval for the establishment of overseas branches, overseas insurance companies and overseas insurance intermediaries, or the acquisition of overseas insurance companies or intermediaries. In order to submit such an application, an insurance company must have an operating history of no less than two years, total assets of no less than RMB 5 billion at the end of preceding year and foreign exchange funds of no less than USD 15 million or its equivalent in other freely convertible currencies as at the end of the preceding year. The applicant insurance company must also comply with applicable solvency, risk management and other requirements as stipulated by the CIRC.

Regulation of investments. The 1995 insurance law requires insurance companies to invest their funds in a sound and prudent manner with the dual objective of seeking a return and preservation of capital. It significantly restricts the investments life insurance companies are allowed to make. Insurance funds may be invested only in bank deposits, Chinese government bonds, government agency bonds issued by quasi-sovereign policy banks of the Chinese government, as well as other investment vehicles approved by the State Council, such as bonds of specified large state-owned enterprises. The 1995 insurance law specifically prohibits insurance companies from establishing any entity engaged in the securities businesses and from investing in enterprises.

Since 1999, the CIRC has implemented a gradual but deliberate regulatory expansion of insurance company investment powers.

Beginning in August 1999, insurance companies which were authorized to become members of the inter-bank market were permitted to engage in purchases and sales of Chinese government bonds and government agency bonds in that market. Beginning in October 1999, insurance companies were allowed to invest in qualified domestic securities investment funds. The amount of investment assets that may be so invested by an insurance company may not exceed a percentage of its total assets as of the end of

the prior year as prescribed by the CIRC. The investment in any one fund on a cost basis may not exceed 20% of the maximum amount that may be invested in securities investment funds, and that investment may not account for more than 10% of the fund. These quantitative restrictions were relaxed in January 2003. Since then, the amounts of investment assets that may be so invested by an insurance company may not exceed 15% of its total assets as of the end of the prior month. The investment in any one fund on a cost basis may not exceed 3% of the insurance total assets as of the end of the prior month. The investment in any one closed-end fund may not account for more than 10% of the fund. Notwithstanding the foregoing, insurance companies may invest up to 100% of the assets of one of the investment accounts relating to investment-linked products, up to 80% of the assets of the investment accounts relating to

universal life products and up to 15% of the investment assets relating to participating products as of the prior month in qualified domestic securities investment funds.

In October 1999, insurance companies were authorized to make deposits in commercial banks at negotiated rates, provided that the deposits have terms longer than five years and are in amounts of not less than RMB 30 million. The “jumbo” deposits generally bear more attractive interest rates than interest rates on “regular” deposits, which are subject to regulation by the central bank.

The 2002 amendment of the insurance law allows insurance companies to invest in insurance companies, asset management companies (restricted to managing insurance company assets) and other insurance-related enterprises upon receipt of regulatory approval from the CIRC. The general prohibition against investing in securities businesses and enterprises other than insurance-related enterprises remains in effect.

Prior to June 2003, insurance companies were only allowed to invest in corporate bonds issued by four types of government enterprises: railway development, the Three Gorges Dam construction project and enterprises in the telecommunications and power generation sectors. Furthermore, the total amount of these investments was limited to no more than 10% of an insurer’s total assets, and the total investment in any single issue of these four categories of bonds could not exceed 2% of the total assets of the insurer or 10% of the issue, whichever is lower. In June 2003, insurance companies were authorized to invest in any corporate bond provided that the bond has a rating AA or higher from China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd., Dagong Global Credit Rating Agency, China Lianhe Credit Rating Co., Ltd., Shanghai Far East Credit Rating Co., Ltd. or other credit rating agencies approved by the CIRC, and its issuance has been authorized by the PRC securities regulators. Beginning in July 2004, insurance companies have been further allowed to invest in convertible bonds issued by qualified listed companies and certain key state-owned enterprises, which have been approved by the PRC securities regulators. An insurer’s total investment in all corporate bonds, including convertible bonds, on a cost basis may not exceed 20% of its total assets as of the end of the prior month. Furthermore, the total investment in any single issue of corporate bonds may not exceed the lower of 2% of the total assets of the insurer as of the end of the prior month and 15% of the issue. Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to 100% of the assets of one of the investment accounts relating to investment-linked products and up to 80% of the assets of the investment accounts relating to universal life products may be invested in approved corporate bonds. Up to 20% of the investment assets relating to participating and other separately accounted products as of the end of the prior month may be invested in approved corporate bonds.

In March 2004, insurance companies were allowed to invest in subordinated indebtedness issued by wholly state-owned commercial banks and national joint-stock commercial banks which have fixed terms of five to six years.years or less. An insurer’s total investment in bank subordinated indebtedness on a cost basis may not exceed 8% (and 2% in any single bank) of its total assets as of the end of the prior month, and the total investment in any single issue of such bank subordinated indebtedness may not exceed 20% of the issue.

Beginning in June 2004, insurance companies have been further allowed to invest in subordinated bonds issued by any commercial bank in connection with either a public offering or a private placement which has been approved by the China Banking Regulatory Commission and the People’s Bank of China. An insurer’s total investment in bank subordinated bonds on a cost basis may not exceed 15% (and 3% in any single bank) of its total assets as of the end of the prior month, and the total investment in any single issue may not exceed 20% of the issue.

Concurrently with the authorized issuance of subordinated indebtedness by insurance companies, insurance companies have also been permitted to invest in subordinated indebtedness issued by other insurance companies, beginning in September 2004. An insurer’s total investment in insurance company

subordinated indebtedness on a cost basis may not exceed 20% (and 4% in any single issuer) of its totalnet assets as of the end of the prior month, and the total investment in any single issue may not exceed 20% of the issue.

On August 17, 2005, the CIRC issued tentative rules on investments in debt securities by insurance companies to consolidate and further loosen the restrictions on the investments in debt securities by insurance companies.

Chinese Government Bonds, Government Agency Bonds and Subordinated Bonds and RMB-dominated bonds issued by International Development Institutions.Insurance companies may invest in Chinese government bonds, government agency bonds and subordinated bonds, as well as RMB-dominated bonds issued by international development institutions. There are no CIRC prescribed maximum percentage of investments by insurance companies in these bonds.

Financial Bonds and Subordinated Bonds issued by Commercial Banks.Insurance companies may invest in financial bonds and subordinated bonds issued by any qualified commercial bank in connection with either a public offering or a private placement. An insurer’s total investment in bank financial bonds and subordinated bonds on a cost basis may not exceed 30% (and 10% in any single bank) of its total assets as of the end of the prior quarter. The total investment in any single issue by a commercial bank with a rating of AA or above may not exceed 20% of the issue, and the balance of such investment may not exceed 5% of the total assets of such insurer as of previous quarter. The total investment in any single issue by a commercial bank with a rating of A or above may not exceed 10% of the issue, and the balance of such investment may not exceed 3% of the total assets of such insurer as of previous quarter.

Subordinated Indebtedness issued by Commercial Banks and Insurance Companies.Insurance companies may invest in subordinated indebtedness issued by wholly state-owned commercial banks and national joint stockjoint-stock commercial banks which have fixed terms of six years or less. An insurer’s total investment in bank subordinated indebtedness on a cost basis may not exceed 8% (and 5% in any single bank) of its total assets as of the end of the prior quarter. The total investment in any single issue of such bank subordinated indebtedness may not exceed 10% of the issue and the balance of such investment may not exceed 3% of its total assets as of the end of the previous quarter.

Insurance companies may also invest in subordinated indebtedness issued by other insurance companies that are not controlling, controlled by or under common control with, the investing insurance companies. An insurer’s total investment in insurance company subordinated indebtedness on a cost basis may not exceed 20% (and 4% in any single issuer) of its net assets as of the end of the previous quarter. The total investment in any single issue may not exceed 20% of the issue, and the balance of such investment may not exceed 1% of its net assets as of the end of the previous quarter.

Corporate Bonds, Convertible Bonds and Shot-term Financing Bonds.Insurance companies may invest in corporate bonds issued by qualified enterprises with long-term rating of AA or above. The total amount of investments in all corporate bonds on a cost basis may not exceed 30% (and 10% in any single issuer) of an insurer’s total assets as of the previous quarter. An insurer’s total investment in any single issue may not exceed, if with irrevocable guarantees by qualified guarantors, 20% of the issue and the balance of such investment may not exceed 5% of its total assets as of the end of the previous quarter, and, if without such guarantees, 10% and 3%, respectively.

Insurance companies may also invest in convertible bonds issued by qualified listed companies and certain key state-owned enterprises, which have been approved by the PRC securities regulators. An insurer’s total investment in all such corporate bonds, including convertible bonds, on a cost basis may

not exceed 30% (and 10% in any single issuer, among which 5% attributable to convertible bonds) of its total assets as of the end of the previous quarter. An insurer’s total investment in any single issue may not exceed, if with irrevocable guarantees by qualified guarantors, 20% of the issue, and the balance of such investment may not exceed 3% of its total assets as of the end of the previous quarter, and, if without such guarantees, 10% and 1%, respectively.

Insurance companies may invest in short-term financial bonds issued by qualified non-financial institutions. An insurer’s total investment in all such corporate bonds, including short-term financial bonds, on a cost basis may not exceed 30% (and 10% in any single issuer, among which 3% attributable to short-term financial bonds) of its total assets as of the end of the previous quarter. An insurer’s total investment in any single issue may not exceed the lower of 10% of the issue, and the balance of such investment may not exceed 3% of its total assets as of the end of the previous quarter.

The total amount of investments on a cost basis by an insurance companies in various debt securities, excluding government bonds and government agency bonds and subordinated bonds, issued or guaranteed by any single institution, may not exceed 20% of its total assets as of the end of previous quarter.

Up to 100% of the assets of one of the investment accounts relating to investment-linked products and up to 80% of the assets of the investment accounts relating to universal life products may be invested in approved financial bonds and subordinated bonds issued by commercial banks and corporate bonds.

In January 2007, the CIRC issued a set of guidelines for credit rating of debt securities investment by insurers, requiring the insurance companies to conduct an internal credit rating of all types of debt securities invested in, except for investments in Chinese government bonds, central bank notes and other bonds as recognized by the CIRC. Insurers are also required to establish and develop an internal credit rating system and file the same with the CIRC in a timely manner. The credit rating department of an insurer shall comprise of at least two professionals with financial knowledge and capabilities. The credit rating reports produced shall be submitted to relevant departments for use and the risk management department shall supervise the use of such credit rating results.

Beginning in August 2004, a qualified life insurance company may invest abroad its foreign currency denominated insurance funds in the following categories and in the following manner: deposits at foreign branches of Chinese commercial banks or foreign banks that have a long term credit rating of A or higher from an internationally accredited credit rating agency, provided that the deposit at one single bank, excluding the balance of any foreign currency settlement account, does not exceed 30% of the annual quota set by the state foreign exchange regulator; debt securities issued by foreign governments, international financial institutions or foreign corporations that have a rating of A or higher from an internationally accredited credit rating agency; debt securities issued overseas by the Chinese government or enterprises with a rating of BBB or higher; money market products including bank notes and

negotiable instruments with a rating of AAA or equivalent; and other investment vehicles prescribed by the CIRC. The total amount of such overseas investments may not exceed the annual quota approved by the state foreign exchange regulator, and may not exceed 80% of the balance of the total foreign currency funds as of the end of the prior year, or the combined amount of such year-end balance and any increase to the annual quote that is separately approved by the state foreign exchange regulator. Up to 30% of the total approved quota may be allocated for investment in debt securities with a rating of A, and up to 70% for debt securities with a rating of below AA, both at a cost basis. This limitation does not apply to debt securities issued overseas by the Chinese government and enterprises. Total investments in debt securities issued by any single corporation or enterprise may not exceed on a cost basis 10% of the total approved quota. The overseas investment of the foreign currency funds may be managed by an insurance company itself or through a qualified professional management company. In any event an insurance company shall appoint a commercial bank located in China as custodian with respect to its foreign currency funds, and the custodian bank may select an overseas agent who satisfies the conditions set forth in the custody agreement. In June 2005, the CIRC further broadened the permitted overseas investments to include shares of Chinese companies listed on the stock exchanges in New York, London, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong. The total amount of overseas investments in shares of Chinese companies may not exceed 10% of an insurance company’s total approved quota, and the investments in a single Chinese company by an insurance company may not exceed 5% of the its total shares issued and

outstanding. In January 2005, we submitted an application to allow us to make such overseas investments which is pending theand obtained such approval of the competent authorities.in November 2006.

In October 2004, the CIRC issued a new regulation further authorizing insurance companies to invest their insurance funds in publicly offered and listed equity securities which are denominated and traded in Renminbi and other stock market investments. Such stock market investments may be made by an insurer directly or through an insurance asset management company, and may be made at primary market offering stage or through secondary market trading. An insurer may not invest in a listed company or any of its affiliates if the listed company holds directly or indirectly 10% or more of the equity interest of the insurer.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, up to 100% of the assets of an investment account relating to investment-linked products, up to 80% of the assets of an investment account relating to universal life products, and up to 5% of the maximum amount of the total assets that may be invested in the stock market as of the end of the prior year, excluding assets relating to Investment-linkedinvestment-linked and universal life products, all at cost basis, may be accounted for stock market investments.

In addition, the total investment in listed companies with fewer than 100 million public shares may not exceed 20% of the maximum amount that may be invested in the stock market, including such amount relating to investment-linked and universal life products. Investment in the public shares of any one listed company may not exceed 5% of the maximum amount that may be invested in stock market on a cost basis, including such amount relating to participating and universal life products, and may not exceed 10% of the total public portion or 5% of the total equity, whichever is lower, of the listed company. The calculation of the above percentages shall take into consideration the number of common shares as a result of the conversion of the convertible bonds.

An insurer is prohibited from investing in any problematic securities that have been identified by the CIRC and is prohibited from engaging in insider trading and other manipulative and illegal activities. Life insurance companies must strictly follow a set of risk control measures prescribed by the CIRC in making such stock market investment.

Beginning in March 2006, insurance companies were allowed to invest, indirectly, in infrastructure projects. Insurance funds must be entrusted to trustee companies and invested in accordance with the instructions of the insurance companies and by and in

the names of the trustee companies. A life insurance company may invest in infrastructure projects, on cost basis, up to 5% of its total assets as of the previous quarter. The amount of the investment, on a cost basis, by a life insurance company in each infrastructure project may not exceed 20% of the total budget of such project. We were recently

In October 2006, the CIRC further expanded the scope of permitted investments to include equity interests in non-listed commercial banks, including state-owned commercial banks, joint stock commercial banks and city commercial banks in China. Such investments are either categorized as “ordinary investment”, for the investments less than 5% of the bank’s share capital or paid-in capital, or as “material investment”, for investments exceeding 5% of the bank’s share capital or paid-in capital. For purposes of such investment, an insurer may use its corporate capital, liability reserves with a liability term of over 10 years, as well as other funds as recognized by the CIRC. Such liability reserves exclude the funds invested in investment-linked and universal life products and other financial management type insurance products. An insurance asset management company may be entrusted to make investments in commercial banks.

The aggregate of ordinary and material investments in the banks may not exceed 3% of an insurer’s total assets at the end of the previous year. The balance of ordinary investments in a single bank may not exceed 1% of an insurer’s total assets at the end of the previous year. In addition, the balance of other material investments should be submitted to the CIRC for approval and the balance of corporate capital applied to material investments may not exceed 40% of the insurer’s paid-in capital as at the end of the previous year, minus accumulated losses. Insurers intending to invest in commercial banks using financing facilities must be approved by the CIRC.

The insurers must also satisfy certain requirements, such as good corporate governance, effective risk control, profitability, solvency and compliance requirements, before they can make investments in banks. For material investments, the insurers are further required to be able to accurately assess the performance and risks of the target bank. If an insurer wishes to purchase a 5%—10% stake in a commercial bank, the insurer must have total assets at the end of the previous year of no less than RMB 20 billion (in the case of an insurance holding company) or RMB 100 billion (in the case of an insurance operating company). For investments greater than 10%, the applicable minimum assets test increases to RMB 30 billion (in the case of an insurance holding company) or RMB 150 billion respectively (in the case of an insurance operating company). We are qualified under these rules to make investments for more than 10% ownership in a commercial bank.

In principle, an insurer may not make material investment in more than two commercial banks.

To exit an investment in a commercial bank, an insurer is required to file with the CIRC for the transfer of an ordinary investment and to investobtain CIRC approval for a transfer of a material investment. In case the bank equity owned by an insurer is converted into tradable shares, the cost for acquiring such bank equity is to be booked as part of the insurer’s stock market investment, which needs to comply with CIRC rules in infrastructure projects.respect thereof. If the specified stock investment percentage is exceeded, an insurer must make necessary adjustment within a specified time period to observe the regulatory restrictions in case of an ordinary investment. For material investments, the CIRC will issue separate provisions therefor.

Solvency requirements. In March 2003, the CIRC introduced a new standard, the solvency ratio, to measure the financial soundness of life insurance companies to provide better policyholder protection under a system of corrective regulatory action. The solvency ratio of an insurance company is a measure of capital adequacy, which is calculated by dividing the actual solvency of the company (which is its admissible assets less admissible liabilities determined in accordance with PRC GAAP and relevant rules) by the minimum solvency it is required to meet.

The minimum solvency of a life insurance company is the sum of its minimum solvency for its short-term business (policies having a term of one year or less from the date of issuance) and the minimum solvency for its long-term business (policies having a term of more than one year from the date of issuance).

The minimum solvency for a life insurance company’s short-term business is the higher of:

 

18% of the portion of net premium, deposits and policy fees received in the most recent fiscal year net of business tax and other surcharges which are not in excess of RMB 100 million, plus 16% of the portion which are in excess of RMB 100 million; and

 

26% of the portion of the average annual claims payments during the most recent three fiscal years which is not in excess of RMB 70 million, plus 23% of the portion which is in excess of RMB 70 million.

The minimum solvency for its long-term business is the sum of:

 

1% of reserves for its investment-linked insurance business;

 

4% of reserves for its other insurance businesses;

 

0.1% of the total sums at risk under term life policies, the coverage period of which expires within three years;

 

0.15% of the total sums at risk under term life policies, the coverage period of which expires within three to five years;

 

0.3% of the total sums at risk under term life policies, the coverage period of which will not expire within five years;

 

0.3% of the total sums at risk under whole life policies; and

 

0.3% of the sums at risk of all other insurance and annuity products with a coverage period longer than one year.

An insurance company with a solvency ratio below 100% may be subject to a range of regulatory actions by the CIRC. If the solvency ratio is above 70%, the CIRC will have the right to require the insurance company to submit and implement a corrective plan. If the insurer fails to come into compliance with the solvency requirement within the prescribed time period, the CIRC may require the insurance company, among other things, to raise additional share capital, to seek reinsurance of its insurance obligations, to stoprestrict paying dividends on its shares or to restrict the acquisition of fixed assets or business operations or the establishment of branch offices.

If the solvency ratio of an insurance company falls to or below 70% but stays at or above 30%, in addition to the right to take the above-mentioned measures, the CIRC may also order the insurance company to sell its non-performing assets, transfer its insurance business to others, limit the remuneration and expense accounts of its senior management, restrict its advertising activities or cease any new business development.

If the solvency ratio falls below 30%, in addition to the right to take the regulatory actions described above, the CIRC will also have the right to put the insurer into receivership.

Insurance companies are required to calculate and report annually to the CIRC their solvency levelmargin and twelve additional financial ratios to assist it in monitoring the financial condition of insurers. A “usual range” of results for each of the twelve ratios is used as a benchmark. The departure from the “usual range” on four or more of the ratios can lead to regulatory actions being taken by the CIRC.

The report is required to be submitted on or prior to April 30 of each year, based on audited financial information for the prior year. For the financial year of 2005,2006, among the twelve financial ratios, eleven financial ratios were within their usual ranges and our surrenderactual solvency ratio was slightly outside ofhigher than the usual range provided by the CIRC. Our solvency levelmargin as of December 31, 20052006 was approximately 2.733.5 times the minimum regulatory requirement.

Registered capital deposit. Insurance companies in China are required to deposit an amount equal to 20% of their registered capital with a bank designated by the CIRC. These funds may not be used for any purpose other than to pay off debts during a liquidation proceeding.

Statutory insurance fund. Chinese life insurance companies are required to contribute to an insurance guarantee fund 1% of their netretained premiums from accident and short-term health insurance, including policies assumed through reinsurance.insurance. Prior to January 1, 2005, contributions were not required for life insurance and long-term health insurance. Beginning January 1, 2005, life insurance companies are required to contribute 0.15% of netretained premiums from long-term life insurance and long-term health insurance with guaranteed return rates, and 0.05% of the netretained premiums from long-term life insurance with no guaranteed return rates. Contributions are not required once the total amount in the fund reaches 1% of the insurance company’s assets, and shall resume automatically when such amount falls below the 1% threshold. The purpose of the insurance guarantee fund is to provide financial subsidy to a life insurer assuming policy obligations of another life insurer as a result of the dissolution or bankruptcy of the latter. The CIRC is also authorized to use the fund when the insurance industry is facing a severe crisis that is likely to cause serious threat to public interest and national financial security.

The CIRC has opened a special bank account at China Industrial and Commerce Bank to accept deposits of the contributions by life insurance companies, including pension companies, health insurance companies and life reinsurance companies. Insurance companies are required to deposit, by March 31, 2005, 50% of the total accumulated amount of contributions as of the end of 2004, and the balance by the end of 2005 into such account. Thereafter, the contributions will be made quarterly each year, with each payment equaling 25% of the total contributions made in the prior year, and necessary adjustments will be made at the end of the year to reflect the actual amount required to be contributed for that year.

Statutory reserves. In addition to the statutory deposit and the statutory insurance fund, insurance companies are required to provide for the following statutory reserves in accordance with regulations established by the CIRC:

 

reserves for future benefits and claims; and

 

reserves for pending payments based on insurance claims already made and claims not yet made but for which an insured event has occurred.

These reserves are recorded as liabilities for purposes of determining an insurance company’s actual solvency. In May 2003, the CIRC issued a regulation, effective as of January 1, 2004, which affected the calculation of statutory reserves for certain insurance products. It has the general effect of increasing the reserves a life insurance company is required to make, thereby affecting its solvency as well as its income under PRC GAAP.

In January 2005 CIRC issued a new regulation requiring all life insurance companies to submit to the CIRC a new statutory actuarial report, on an annual basis, with respect to the operational results of their insurance business for the previous year. The most significant part of the new regulation is that a

life insurance company will be required to provide, in the actuarial report, their assessment of the sufficiency of their statutory reserves.

Appointment of actuaries. Insurance companies are required to appoint one or more actuarial professionals, certified by the CIRC, and must establish a system for actuarial reporting.

Market conduct. Insurance companies are required to take steps to ensure that sales promotional materials used by their sales representatives and agents are objective, true and correct, with no material omissions or misleading information, contain no forecasts of benefits that are not guaranteed under the insurance or annuity product and do not exaggerate the benefits provided under the insurance or annuity product. The sales promotional materials must also highlight in an appropriate fashion any exclusions of coverage or liability in their products, as well as terms providing for policy or annuity surrenders and return of premiums.

Insurance companies are subject to extensive regulation against anti-competitive behavior. They may not pay insurance agents, the insured or the beneficiary any rebates or other illegal payments, nor may they pay their agents commissions over and above the industry norm.

Compliance with regulatory requirements. Our management confirms that, except as set out in the sections entitled “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the PRC Life Insurance Industry—All of our agents are required to be qualified and to be registered as business entities. If these qualification and registration requirements are enforced or result in policyholders canceling their policies, our business may be materially and adversely affected” and “—Licensing requirements” above, we have complied in all material respects with all applicable regulatory requirements set out above.

Regulation of Foreign-Invested Insurance Companies

China acceded to the WTO on December 11, 2001. As a result of China’s commitments in connection with the accession, the Chinese insurance market is gradually opening up to foreign insurers and insurance-related service providers. A foreign life insurer with total assets of not less than US$5,000 million and 30 years of industry experience in any WTO member country, and which has had a representative office for two years in China, is permitted to form a life insurance joint venture with a domestic partner of its choice. Foreign life insurers may own up to one-half of the joint venture. In addition, the geographic limitation on foreign life insurers, which were permitted to operate only in specified cities, have been lifted since December 11, 2004. Accordingly, foreign life insurers have been permitted to provide group life insurance, health insurance and annuity and other pension-like products since December 11, 2004. In addition, since December 11, 2006, foreign insurance brokers have been permitted to set up wholly owned subsidiaries in China.

Foreign-invested insurance companies, including Sino-foreign equity joint ventures, wholly foreign-owned insurance companies and branches of foreign insurance companies, are generally regulated in the same manner as domestic insurance companies. Foreign-invested insurance companies may not, without the approval of the CIRC, engage in transactions with their affiliates, including reinsurance transactions and purchases and sales of assets. In addition, where the foreign-invested insurance company is a branch

of a foreign insurance company, it is required to notify the CIRC of fundamental events relating to the foreign insurance company within ten days following the occurrence of the event. Reportable events include: (1) a change of name, senior management or jurisdiction of incorporation of the foreign insurance company, (2) a change in the foreign insurance company’s share capital, (3) a change in any person beneficially owning 10% or more of the foreign insurance company’s shares, (4) a change in business scope, (5) the imposition of administrative sanctions by any applicable regulatory authority, (6) a material loss incurred by the foreign insurance company, (7) a spin-off, merger, dissolution, revocation of corporate franchise or bankruptcy involving the foreign insurance company and

(8) other events specified by the CIRC. If the foreign insurance company is dissolved, or its corporate franchise is revoked or it is declared bankrupt, the Chinese branch of the foreign insurance company will be prohibited from conducting any new business.

Regulation of Insurance Asset Management Companies

An insurance asset management company is a limited liability company or joint stock company that manages insurance funds on behalf of others. Insurance asset management companies are regulated by the CIRC.

Minimum capital requirements.The registered capital of an insurance asset management company may not be lower than the greater of (1) RMB 30 million in cash and (2) 0.1% of the insurance funds it manages, provided that the minimum capital is not required to exceed RMB 500 million.

Business operations.In accordance with newly implementedthe tentative regulations of insurance asset management companies implemented in June 2004, an insurance asset management company may conduct the following businesses:

 

managing and operating insurance funds entrusted by its shareholders;

 

managing and operating insurance funds entrusted by another insurance company controlled by its shareholders;

 

managing and operating its own insurance funds; and

 

other businesses otherwise approved by the CIRC or other departments of the State Council.

The investments of the insurance funds by insurance asset management companies are subject to the same requirements and limitations applicable to the investments by the insurance companies themselves. With the regulatory expansion of insurance company investment powers, the investment powers of insurance asset management companies over their own funds have been expanded as well to cover subordinated indebtedness issued by banks and insurance companies and bank subordinated bonds and stock market investment.bonds.

In connection with the funds being managed by an insurance asset management company, a custodian is required to be appointed. The custodian must be an independent commercial bank or financial institution satisfying applicable CIRC requirements.

Shareholding restrictions. At least 75% of the shares of an insurance asset management company must be owned by domestic insurance companies, and at least one of the shareholders of an insurance asset management company must be an insurance company or insurance holding company satisfying specified requirements.

Management of Pension Funds.Funds. According to the trial measures on management of enterprise pension funds, subject to relevant regulatory approvals, insurance companies can become the trustee of, and insurance asset management companies can become the investment managers for, enterprise pension funds.

Investment risk control.Both insurance companies and asset management companies must establish structures, arrangements and measures to recognize, assess, manage and control investment

risks. Members of senior management may not be responsible for the management of departments in charge of investment decisions, investment transactions and risk controls at the same time. Branches of insurance companies may not manage insurance funds. Insurance asset management companies must arrange for separate investment managers to manage their own funds and the insurance funds from other insurance companies, as well as insurance funds from an insurance company that are of a different nature.

Regulation of Insurance Agencies, Insurance Brokers and Other Intermediaries

Insurance agents are business entities or individuals which or who act on behalf of an insurance company in respect of insurance matters. An insurance company is prohibited from using any agent not licensed by the CIRC to market its insurance products, and is responsible for the acts of its agents when the acts are within the scope of their agency. Licensed insurance agencies fall into three groups: dedicated agencies, non-dedicated agencies and individual agents.

A dedicated agency is a partnership or company organized under the PRC company law whose principal business is to act as an agent of insurance companies. Dedicated agencies are subject to minimum capital and other requirements, and their business is generally limited to insurance-related activities.

A non-dedicated agency is a business entity whose principal business is other than as an insurance agency. To receive a license, the agency business must have a direct relationship with its principal business, which the CIRC has interpreted as permitting banks and banking operations of post offices to act as non-dedicated insurance agencies.

An individual agent is an individual acting as agent for an insurer. To receive a license from the CIRC, the individual is required to hold a CIRC qualification certificate issued by the CIRC. An individual agent is also required to register with and obtain a business license from the agent’s local bureau of industry and commerce. In addition, the individual must not have committed any criminal offense or violation of any financial or insurance law or regulation and must be engaged in the insurance agency business full time. An individual insurance agent is permitted to act on behalf of only one life insurance company.

Essentially none of our exclusive agents qualifies as an “individual agent” within the meaning of the insurance law because they do not meet the dual requirements of holding a CIRC qualification certificate and a business license from the local bureau of the SAIC. We believe this situation is shared by all major life insurance companies in China. Approximately 79%96.4% of our exclusive agents hold a CIRC qualification certificate, and essentially none has a business license. In May 2004, the CIRC issued a circular requiring insurance companies to take effective measures in carrying out the qualification certification requirement. Furthermore, no insurance company may issue a company certificate to any person, identifying that person as its sales representative, if the person does not have a CIRC qualification certificate. Pursuant to the circular, we are also required to take appropriate measures to improve both participation of our agents taking the qualification examination and their success rate, and to report to the CIRC on a quarterly basis the percentage of our agents holding a CIRC qualification certificate. In April 2006, the CIRC issued regulations on the administration of individual agents, to be effective on July 1, 2006, in order to further strengthen the administration of individual agents.

Pursuant to these regulations, insurance companies that retain individual agents without CIRC qualification certificates and underwriting certificates to engage in insurance sales activities will be warned and fined up to RMB 30,000, and the responsible members of senior management of such insurance companies will also be warned and fined up to RMB 10,000. In serious circumstances, the CIRC may order the insurance companies to remove the responsible member of senior management from office and reject the application of setting up branch offices by such insurance companies.

We are working with our agents who are not yet CIRC-qualified to obtain the CIRC qualification certificate. It is our understanding that the SAIC does not have procedures in place to effect the registration and licensing of individual insurance agents. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the PRC Life Insurance Industry—All of our agents are required to be qualified and to be registered as business entities. If these qualification and registration requirements are enforced or result in policyholders canceling their policies, our business may be materially and adversely affected”.

All insurance agencies and agents are required to enter into agency agreements that specify the duration of the agency; the amount of the agency fee and the method of payment; the scope of the agency, including the insurance products to be marketed; and other relevant matters. Absent specific CIRC approval, insurance agents are prohibited from signing insurance and annuity products on behalf of the insurance companies they represent. None of our agents is authorized to sign insurance policies or annuity contracts for us.

Insurance agencies are required to open special accounts for the handling of funds that they hold or collect for the insurance companies they represent. They may not engage in the following activities: dealing with unauthorized insurers or insurance intermediaries, engaging in activities beyond their authorized business scope or geographical area, causing injury to the rights of the insurance companies they represent, spreading rumors or otherwise injuring the reputation of others in the insurance industry, misappropriating the funds of the insurance companies they represent, defrauding insurance customers through false or misleading representations or material omissions, using undue influence to induce insurance customers to purchase insurance, or defrauding the insurance companies they represent through collusion with the insured or the insurance beneficiary. In addition, dedicated insurance agencies are subject to various reporting requirements, including submission of annual financial reports, and are subject to supervision and examination by the CIRC.

Insurance brokers, who represent individuals and companies purchasing insurance, and other intermediaries are subject to similar regulatory requirements regarding their activities. Among other things, they are subject to supervision and examination by the CIRC, and fundamental corporate changes must be approved by the CIRC. Only companies organized under the PRC company law and meeting the requirements set by the CIRC are authorized to act as insurance brokers.

Regulation of PRC Listed Companies

Our A shares have been listed on the SSE since January 9, 2007. As a result, we are subject to regulation by the PRC securities regulatory authorities with respect to our compliance with PRC securities laws and regulations. We are also subject to the rules of the SSE.

ORGANIZATIONORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

LOGO

LOGO


(1)Incorporated on January 15, 2007 pursuant to be established under a promoters agreement among China Life, CLIC and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited
(2)Incorporated on December 30, 2006 pursuant to be established under a share subscription agreement and a promoters agreement between China Life and CLIC
(3)Formerly known as China Life Asset Management (Hong Kong) Company Limited

List of Significant Subsidiaries

 

Name of Subsidiary

 

Jurisdiction of Incorporation

 

Proportion of Ownership Interest

Owned by China Life

LOGO

China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited

 The People’s Republic of China 60%
LOGO

LOGO

China Life Insurance Asset

Management (Hong Kong) CorporationCompany Limited

 Hong Kong 

60%

(indirectly through affiliate)

LOGO

LOGO

China Life PensionFranklin Asset

Management Company Limited(1)

 The People’s Republic of China 

67%

75%(3)

LOGO(directly and indirectly through affiliate)

LOGO

Property and Casualty Insurance Joint StockChina Life Pension Company Limited(2)

 The People’s Republic of China 40%

(1)Formerly known as China Life Asset Management (Hong Kong) Company Limited
(2)Incorporated on January 15, 2007 pursuant to be established under a promoters agreement among China Life, CLIC and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited
(2)(3)to be established under a share subscription agreement between China LifeWe own 55% and CLICAMC, which is 60% owned by us, owns 20%

PROPERTY, PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT

As of December 31, 2005,2006, we owned and leased 4,0183,056 and 3,2384,380 properties respectively, and had 106198 properties under construction. 1895 properties owned by us are leased to independent third parties. The remaining properties are mainly occupied by us as office premises.

Under a renewed property leasing agreement entered into between CLIC and us, CLIC agreed to lease to us over 9001,100 properties owned by CLIC, its subsidiaries and affiliates, which we refer to as the CLIC owned properties. CLIC does not have the legal title to certain number of these CLIC owned properties and is in the process of completing the legal procedures in order to obtain the legal title to these CLIC owned properties. CLIC has undertaken to us 1) to have the building ownership certificates in respect of these properties registered under its name as soon as possible; 2) to be responsible for all costs, expenses and claims incurred and 3) to indemnify us against all losses, claims, charges arising from our occupation of these properties.

We are in the process of purchasing new office buildings for our headquarter in Beijing. We have entered into the relevant contracts for the purchase of the new office buildings and RMB 1,176 million (US$151 million), 60% of the purchase price, has been paid. The remaining 40% of the purchase price will be paid according to the terms as agreed.

 

ITEM 4A.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

 

ITEM 5.OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS.

You should read the following discussion and analysis in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included elsewhere in this annual report. For purposes of the following discussion, references to our “predecessor” mean CLIC, as our predecessor company prior to the restructuring, for the periods in question.In general, the financial results discussed in this section relate to historical consolidated financial data, including both the transferred policies and the non-transferred policies. When financial results discussed in this section relate to the transferred and new policies only, specific reference is made to that fact.

Overview

Restructuring

We were formed in connection with CLIC’s restructuring. In connection with the restructuring, CLIC transferred to us (1) all long-term insurance policies (policies having a term of more than one year from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999, having policy terms approved by or filed with the CIRC on or after June 10, 1999 and either (i) recorded as a long-term insurance policy as of June 30, 2003 in a database attached to the restructuring agreement as an annex or (ii) having policy terms for group supplemental medical insurance (fund type), (2) stand-alone short-term policies (policies having a term of one year or less from the date of issuance) issued on or after June 10, 1999 and (3) all riders supplemental to the policies described in clauses (1) and (2) above, together with the reinsurance contracts specified in an annex to the restructuring agreement. We refer to these policies as the “transferred policies”. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring”. All other insurance policies as of June 30, 2003 were retained by CLIC. We refer to these policies as the “non-transferred policies”. We refer to the insurance policies issued by us following the restructuring as the “new policies”.

The restructuring was effected through a restructuring agreement entered into with CLIC on September 30, 2003, with retroactive effect to June 30, 2003. Pursuant to PRC law and the restructuring

agreement, the transferred policies were transferred to us as of June 30, 2003; however, for accounting purposes the restructuring is treated as having occurred on September 30, 2003. As of June 30, 2003, we assumed all obligations and liabilities of CLIC under the transferred policies. CLIC continues to be responsible for its liabilities and obligations under the non-transferred policies following the restructuring. The business constituted by the policies and assets transferred to us and the obligations and liabilities assumed by us and the business constituted by the policies, assets, obligations and liabilities retained by CLIC were, prior to the restructuring, under common management from a number of significant aspects. Therefore, our consolidated balance sheet data and income statement data as of and for the year ended December 31, 2003 reflect the restructuring as having occurred on September 30, 2003.

Immediately following the restructuring, CLIC became our sole shareholder. Following our global offering in December 2003, CLIC became and remains our controlling shareholder, holding approximately 72.2% of our voting shares. Following our A share offering in December 2006, CLIC now holds approximately 68.4% of our voting shares as of April 30, 2007. We have been providing management and other services to CLIC, including the administration of the run-off of the non-transferred policies, the management of the investment assets retained by CLIC (through our asset management joint venture described below)AMC) and various other services for CLIC, for which we are paid fees. For a description of the restructuring and the other arrangements entered into in connection with the restructuring, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring” and “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions”.

Overview of our Business

We are the leading life insurance company in China. We provide a broad range of insurance products, including individual life insurance, group life insurance, accident insurance and health insurance products. We had nearly 7090 million individual and group life insurance policies, annuity contracts and long-term health insurance policies in force as of December 31, 2005.2006. We also offer accident and short-term health insurance policies to individuals and groups.

We report our financial results according to the following three principal business segments:

 

  

Individual life insurance, which offers participating and non-participating life insurance and annuities to individuals. The financial results of our individual long-term health insurance business are also reflected in our individual life insurance business segment. Our individual life insurance business comprises long-term products, including long-term health and accident insurance products, meaning products having a term of more than one year at the date of their issuance.

 

  

Group life insurance, which offers participating and non-participating life insurance and annuities products to companies and institutions. The financial results of our group long-term health insurance business are also reflected in our group life insurance business segment. Our group life insurance business comprises long-term products.

 

  

Accident and health insurance, which offers short-term accident insurance and health insurance to individuals and groups. Our accident and health insurance businesses comprises short-term products, meaning products having a term of one year or less at the date of their execution.

In addition, AMC, an asset management joint venture established by us and CLIC, manages our investment assets and, separately, substantially all of those of CLIC, pursuant to two asset management agreements, one with us and one with CLIC. See “Item 4. Key Information on the Company—Company — Business Overview—Overview — Asset Management Business”. We own 60% of the joint venture, with CLIC owning the

remaining 40%. We will formformed a property and casualty joint venture with CLIC, on December 30, 2006, with us owning 40% and CLIC owning the remaining 60%. See “Item 4. Information on the Company — Business Overview — Property and Casualty Business”. We formed a professional pension insurance company with CLIC and AMC on January 15, 2007, with us owning 55%, CLIC owning 25% and AMC owning the asset management joint venture. We have entered into a share subscription agreement in respect of the property and casualty company and a promoters agreement in respect of the pension insurance company.remaining 20%. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transaction—Related Party Transactions” for details of these two agreements.4. Information on the Company — Business Overview — Pension Insurance Business”.

Financial Overview of our Business

The historical financial statements included beginning on page F-1 of this annual report represent the consolidated results of CLIC and its subsidiaries (including both the transferred policies and the non-transferred policies) through September 30, 2003, the date on which the restructuring is deemed to have occurred for accounting purposes.

We had total gross written premiums and policy fees of RMB 81,02299,417 million (US$10,04012,739 million) and net profit attributed to our shareholders of RMB 9,30619,956 million (US$1,1532,557 million) for the year ended December 31, 2005.2006. Our principal business segments had the following results:

 

  

Individual life insurance had total gross written premiums and policy fees of RMB 68,88886,587 million (US$8,53611,095 million) in 2005,2006, principally reflecting an increaseincreases in sales of endowment products and whole life products. These were offset in part by a reduction inrenewal premiums, policy fees as a result of the adjustment of our product selling strategy to concentrate more on risk-type products and regular premium products.new policy premiums.

 

  

Group life insurance had total gross written premiums and policy fees of RMB 1,2671,740 million (US$157223 million) in 2005,2006, principally reflecting an increase in sales of investment-type products, which led to a growth in policy fees, and an increaseincreases in sales of whole life insurance products.products and an increase in policy fees.

 

  

Accident and health insurance had total gross written premiums of RMB 10,86711,090 million (US$1,3471,421 million) ended in 2005,2006, principally reflecting our increaseincreased sales efforts for short-term products, as well as an increaseaccident insurance business but offset in part by our adjustment of our sales strategies for health insurance business to reduce our sales of our long-termcertain health products with short-term accident and health riders.relatively higher risks.

Our business and the business of CLIC, our predecessor, has been characterized by rapid growth of premium income over the past several years, particularly due to increased sales of participating risk-type products. Our historical results, which present the historical results of our predecessor for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, the date on which the restructuring is treated as having occurred for accounting purposes, reflect the continuing performance of policies that were issued prior to June 10, 1999. Many of these policies paid guaranteed rates of return that, due to declining interest rates, came to be significantly higher than the rates of return on investment assets. This created a “negative spread”, where the investment return fell below the rate our predecessor had committed to pay on those policies. The policies issued by our predecessor on or after June 10, 1999, which have been transferred to us in the restructuring, were priced at significantly lower guaranteed rates, in line with the 2.50% cap established by the CIRC. We and CLIC have not incurred negative spread on these policies and the new policies issued on or after our establishment, as the average investment returns we and CLIC have been able to generate have been higher than the guaranteed rates. Asrates.As of December 31, 2005,2006, the average guaranteed rate of return of our products was 2.23%2.35%.

Our predecessor did not prepare financial information in accordance with international accounting standards, as applicable in Hong Kong, or H.K. GAAP, or recently adopted HKFRS, prior to the financial year ended December 31, 2000. Accordingly, we first prepared financial information in accordance with H.K. GAAP

as of January 1, 2000. As of this date, all assets and liabilities were measured in accordance with the requirements of H.K. GAAP, except that, as explained in Note 2.5 to the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report, certain property on hand as of that date was stated on the basis of a valuation performed as of January 1, 2000.

H.K. GAAP did not have specific guidance on the accounting treatment of long-term traditional insurance contracts, long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features. Accordingly, we adopted U.S. GAAP in this regard in the preparation of the financial information prior to December 31, 2005. Starting with the financial year ending December 31, 2005, H.K. GAAP was revised to include certain revisions adopted by the International Accounting Standards Board. The revised standards, called HKFRS, include a first phase of financial reporting standard for insurance contracts, HKFRS 4. All financial information included in this annual report has been restated as necessary to comply fully with the new/revised HKFRS. Note that HKFRS permits the continued use of existing accounting policies for all contracts deemed to be insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation feature under HKFRS.

Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations

Revenues, Expenses and Profitability

We earn our revenues primarily from:

 

insurance premiums from the sale of life insurance policies and annuity contracts, including participating and non-participating policies and annuity contracts with life contingencies, as well as accident and health insurance products. Net premiums earned accounted for 75.3%62.3% of total revenues in 2005.2006.

 

policy fees for long-term investment–type insurance contracts and investment contracts (collectively, investment-type contracts). Policy fees accounted for 6.2%4.8% of total revenues in 2005.2006.

 

investment income and realized and, in some cases, unrealized gains and losses from our investment assets. Net investment income and net realized and unrealized gains and losses accounted for 16.7%31.6% of total revenues in 2005.2006.

In addition, following the restructuring, we receive service fees for policy management services we provide to CLIC and, prior to incorporation of theCLIC. AMC, our asset management joint venture we receivedwith CLIC also receives asset management fees for asset management services we provided to CLIC. Since incorporation of the asset management joint venture in November 2003, CLIC has paid asset management fees to the asset management joint venture, which is a subsidiary of ours. See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions”.

Our operating expenses primarily include:

 

insurance benefits provided to our policyholders, accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses;

 

increases in long-term traditional insurance contract liabilities;

 

amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs;

underwriting and policy acquisition costs;

 

policyholder dividends and participation in profits;

 

interests credited to long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts;

 

increases in deferred income; and

 

administrative and other expenses.

In addition, following the restructuring, we pay rent to CLIC on the properties we lease from it.

Our profitability depends principally on our ability to price and manage risk on insurance and annuity products, our ability to maximize the return on investment assets, our ability to attract and retain customers, and our ability to manage expenses. In particular, factors affecting our profitability include:

 

our ability to design and distribute products and services and to introduce new products which gain market acceptance on a timely basis;

our ability to price our insurance and investment products at levels that enable us to earn a margin over the costs of providing benefits and the expense of acquiring customers and administering those products;

 

our returns on investment assets;

 

our mortality and morbidity experience;

 

our lapse experience, which affects our ability to recover the cost of acquiring new business over the lives of the contracts;

 

our cost of administering insurance contracts and providing customer services;

 

our ability to manage liquidity and credit risk in our investment portfolio and to manage duration risk in our asset and policy portfolios through asset-liability management; and

 

changes in regulations.

In addition, other factors, such as competition, taxes, securities market conditions and general economic conditions, affect our profitability.

Interest Rates

For many of our long-term life insurance and annuity products, we are obligated to pay a minimum interest or crediting rate to our policyholders or annuitants. These products expose us to the risk that changes in interest rates may reduce our “spread”, or the difference between the rate of return we are able to earn on our investments intended to support our insurance obligations and the amounts that we are required to pay under the policies. The minimum rate we pay is established when the product is priced, subject to a cap set by the CIRC and which may be adjusted from time to time. Currently, the CIRC cap is 2.50%. If the rates of return on our investments fall below the minimum rates we guarantee, our profitability would be adversely affected. In October 2004, the interest rate on one-year term deposits, a

key benchmark rate, was raised from 1.98% to 2.25%. In August 2006 and March 2007, the interest rate on one-year term deposits was further raised from 2.25% to 2.52% and 2.52% to 2.79%, respectively. Due to China’s recent fast growing economy, the Chinese government may take certain measures, including further raising interest rates, in an effort to ensure sustainable economic growth. If the interest rates were to be further increased, but the CIRC did not raise the cap, sales of some of our products, including our non-participating investment-type products, could be adversely impacted. An increase in guaranteed rates caused by a rise in the CIRC cap may lead to an increase in surrenders and withdrawals of our existing products which offer rates lower than the new rates. We believe that the increase in interest rates offered by alternative products had an impact in our lapse rates in 2005. See “—Financial Overview of Our Business”. As of December 31, 2005,2006, the average guaranteed rate of return of our products was 2.23%2.35%.

Interest rates also affect our returns on investment assets, a large proportion of which is held in negotiated bank deposits and debt securities. In a declining interest rate environment, interest rate changes expose us to reinvestment risks. In a rising interest rate environment, higher rates may yield greater interest income but also may generate unrealized capital losses for debt securities designated as trading, causing us to incur realized capital losses for securities we reinvest or requiring us to take an impairment if the market value of debt securities declines for an extended period.

Sustained levels of high or low interest rates also may affect the relative popularity of our various products. For example, the recent popularity of our participating products is partially driven by the protracted comparatively low interest rate environment in China and the 2.50% cap set by the CIRC on the guaranteed rates of return we may apply. The investment nature of the product, including the enhanced yield by means of dividends, has proven to be attractive to China’s insurance buyers.

Investments

As an insurance company, we are limited by Chinese law and regulations in the types of assets in which we may invest policyholder funds. As prescribed by China’s insurance law, we are limited to investing insurance premiums, deposits and other funds we receive primarily in term deposits; fixed maturity securities, including Chinese treasury bonds, Chinese government agency bonds and corporate bonds issued by Chinese companies and meeting specified criteria; and securities investment funds primarily invested in equity securities issued by Chinese companies and traded on China’s securities exchanges. We also may participate in bond repurchase activities through domestic inter-bank repurchase markets and repurchase exchange markets. Since 2004, we have been allowed to invest in convertible bonds, certain subordinated indebtedness and bonds, shares listed on China’s stock markets, which are denominated and traded in Renminbi and infrastructure projects, and are nowprojects. We received the CIRC’s approval in the application process for2006 to make overseas investments in qualified term deposits, fixed maturity securities and shares of Chinese companies listed on specified stock exchanges. We currently are prohibited from investing in other securities without the CIRC’s approval. However, we understand that the CIRC is considering further easing these restrictions in the future. If the CIRC does so, this may permit us to invest in additional asset classes such as mortgage-backed securities and infrastructure project financings.securities. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Regulation of investments”. Our only material concentration risk relates to our investments in Chinese government securities.

The limitations on the types of investments we are permitted to make affect the investment returns we are able to generate and subject us to various risks that we would not, or to a lesser extent, be subject to if we were able to invest in a wider array of investments. In particular, the limited availability of long-duration investment assets in the markets in which we invest has resulted in the duration of our assets being shorter than that of our liabilities. We believe that with the gradual easing of the investment restrictions imposed on insurance companies in China, such as the permission of overseas investments in qualified term deposits, debt securities and shares of Chinese companies listed on specified stock

exchanges, as well as investments in domestic infrastructure projects, our ability to match the duration of our assets to that of our liabilities will improve. We also seek to reduce the risk of duration mismatch by focusing on product offerings whose maturity profiles are in line with the duration of investments available to us in the prevailing investment environment.

Our results can be materially affected by investment impairments. The following table sets forth impairment charges, which are included in net realized gains and losses, for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2005.2006.

 

  For the year ended
December 31,
   For the year ended
December 31,
  2003 2004 2005   2004 2005 2006
  (RMB in millions)   (RMB in millions)

Debt securities

  (7) (320) (92)  (320) (92) —  

Equity securities

  —    —    (651)  —    (651) —  
                   

Total

  (7) (320) (743)  (320) (743) —  
                   

Impairments relating to the bonds entrusted with Min Fa Security Company Limited that encountered financial difficulties in 2004, resulted in an impairment change of RMB 92 million and RMB 320 million for 2005 and 2004, respectively. See Note 20 (i)21 of the notes to the financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. Impairments in 2005 relating to certain open-ended investment funds we purchased in previous years at a higher price, resulted in an impairment charge of RMB 651 million (US$81 million).million. See Note 20(ii)21 of the notes to the financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. There were no impairment charges in 2006.

Available-for-sale/non-trading securities were comprised of the following asset classes as of December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2005.2006.

 

  As of December 31,  As of December 31,
  2003  2004  2005  2004  2005  2006
  Cost or
amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Cost or
amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  Cost or
amortized
cost
  Estimated
fair value
  

Cost or

amortized

cost

  

Estimated

fair value

  

Cost or

amortized

cost

  

Estimated

fair value

  

Cost or

amortized

cost

  

Estimated

fair value

  (RMB in millions)  (RMB in millions)

Debt securities

                        

Government bonds

  40,449  39,477  43,871  39,612  49,180  49,922  43,871  39,612  49,180  49,922  60,058  60,352

Government agency bonds

  27,234  26,817  26,645  26,438  30,776  30,662  26,645  26,438  30,776  30,662  78,300  78,721

Corporate bonds

  4,508  4,310  4,292  3,741  10,806  11,315  4,292  3,741  10,806  11,315  31,001  30,752

Subordinated bonds/debts

  —    —    —    —    4,458  4,526  —    —    4,458  4,526  7,068  7,043
                                    

Subtotal

  72,191  70,604  74,808  69,791  95,220  96,425  74,808  69,791  95,220  96,425  176,427  176,868
                                    

Equity securities

                        

Funds

  5,422  5,550  13,243  12,597  24,845  25,114  13,243  12,597  24,845  25,114  20,535  32,869

Common stocks,

  —    —    —    —    1,009  1,147

Common stocks

  —    —    1,009  1,147  15,876  29,725

Warrants

  —    —    —    —    —    1
                                    

Subtotal

  5,422  5,550  13,243  12,597  25,854  26,261  13,243  12,597  25,854  26,261  36,411  62,595
                                    

Total

  77,613  76,154  88,051  82,388  121,074  122,686  88,051  82,388  121,074  122,686  212,838  239,463
                                    

We had gross net fair valueunrealized gains on assets at fair value through incomeof RMB 28,097 million (US$3,600 million) and gross unrealized losses of RMB 1,472 million (US$189 million) as of December 31, 2006. We had gross unrealized gains of RMB 2,674 million and gross net fair valueunrealized losses on assets at fair value through income of RMB 1,062 million (US$132 million) as of December 31, 2005. We had gross unrealized gains of RMB 365 million and RMB 608

million and gross unrealized losses of RMB 6,028 million and RMB 2,067 million as of December 31, 2004 and 2003.2004. The total unrealized losses as of December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004 were 0.6%, 0.9% and 2003 were 0.9%, 7.3% and 2.7% of total available-for-sale/non-trading securities. The unrealized losses as of December 31, 2006 related primarily to mark to market adjustments to bonds and securities investment funds. These unrealized losses as of December 31, 2005 2004 and 20032004 related primarily to mark to market adjustments to government and government agency bonds. Mark to market adjustments to securities investment funds also contributed substantially to the unrealized losses as of December 31, 2004 due to a deep fall in securities market in 2004. The Shanghai Stock ExchangeSSE Index, a major stock exchange index in China, dropped to 1,266 points on December 31, 2004 from 1,497 points on December 31, 2003. The index was 1,161 points on December 31, 2005, a further decrease from 2004. The index was 2,675 points on December 31, 2006, which was a 130.4% increase from 2005. This resulted in a significant decrease in total unrealized losses. We made substantially all of the revaluation adjustments on the basis of quoted market prices at of the relevant balance sheet dates.

The following tables set forth the length of time that each class of available-for-sale/non-trading securities has continuously been in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2006, 2005 2004 and 2003.2004.

As of December 31, 2005

  0-6
months
  7-12
months
  12-24
months
  Total 
   (RMB in millions) 

Debt securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (647) (1) (261) (909)

Carrying amounts

  29,235  17  9,520  38,772 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  2.21% 5.88% 2.74% 2.34%

Equity securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (58) (95) —    (153)

Carrying amounts

  3,267  1,696  —    4,963 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  1.78% 5.60% —    3.08%

Total

     

Total unrealized losses

  (705) (96) (261) (1,062)

Total carrying amounts

  32,502  1,713  9,520  43,735 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  2.17% 5.60% 2.74% 2.43%

As of December 31, 2004

  0-6
months
  7-12
months
  12-24
months
  Total 
   (RMB in millions) 

Debt securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (858) (542) (3,960) (5,360)

Carrying amounts

  21,017  9,783  26,173  56,973 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  4.08% 5.54% 15.13% 9.41%

Equity securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (291) (377) —    (668)

Carrying amounts

  7,802  2,726  —    10,528 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  3.73% 13.83%  6.34%

Total

     

Total unrealized losses

  (1,149) (919) (3,960) (6,028)

Total carrying amounts

  28,819  12,509  26,173  67,501 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  3.99% 7.35% 15.13% 8.93%

As of December 31, 2003

  0-6
months
 7-12
months
 12-24
months
  Total 

As of December 31, 2006

  

0-6

months

 

7-12

months

 

More than 12

months

 Total 
  (RMB in millions)   (RMB in millions) 

Debt securities

           

Unrealized losses

  (1,935) (125) —    (2,060)  (819) (290) (227) (1,336)

Carrying amounts

  48,116  2,297  —    50,413   53,352  9,068  9,212  71,632 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  4.02% 5.44% —    4.08%  1.54% 3.20% 2.46% 1.87%

Equity securities

           

Unrealized losses

  (5) (2) —    (7)  (136) —    —    (136)

Carrying amounts

  895  421  —    1,316   1,273  —    —    1,273 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  0.56% 0.48% —    0.53%  10.68% —    —    10.68%

Total

           

Total unrealized losses

  (1,940) (127) —    (2,067)  (955) (290) (227) (1,472)

Total carrying amounts

  49,011  2,718  —    51,729   54,625  9,068  9,212  72,905 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  3.96% 4.67% —    4.00%  1.75% 3.20% 2.46% 2.02%

As of December 31, 2005

  

0-6

months

 

7-12

months

 

More than 12

months

 Total 
  (RMB in millions) 

Debt securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (647) (1) (261) (909)

Carrying amounts

  29,235  17  9,520  38,772 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  2.21% 5.88% 2.74% 2.34%

Equity securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (58) (95) —    (153)

Carrying amounts

  3,267  1,696  —    4,963 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  1.78% 5.60% —    3.08%

Total

     

Total unrealized losses

  (705) (96) (261) (1,062)

Total carrying amounts

  32,502  1,713  9,520  43,735 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  2.17% 5.60% 2.74% 2.43%

As of December 31, 2004

  

0-6

months

 

7-12

months

 

More than 12

months

 Total 
  (RMB in millions) 

Debt securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (858) (542) (3,960) (5,360)

Carrying amounts

  21,017  9,783  26,173  56,973 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  4.08% 5.54% 15.13% 9.41%

Equity securities

     

Unrealized losses

  (291) (377) —    (668)

Carrying amounts

  7,802  2,726  —    10,528 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  3.73% 13.83% —    6.34%

Total

     

Total unrealized losses

  (1,149) (919) (3,960) (6,028)

Total carrying amounts

  28,819  12,509  26,173  67,501 

Unrealized losses as a percentage of carrying amounts

  3.99% 7.35% 15.13% 8.93%

In determining whether a decline in value of an available-for-sale/non-trading or held-to-maturity security is other-than-temporary and an impairment charge should be recorded in the income statement, our management considers a range of factors about the security issuer and uses its best judgment in evaluating the cause of the decline in the estimated fair value of the securities and in assessing the

prospects for near term recovery. Inherent in the evaluation are assumptions and estimates about the operations of the issuer and its future earnings potential. The actual results may differ from the assumptions and estimates. We principally consider the following factors in making an evaluation about impairment:

 

the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been below amortized cost;

 

the potential for impairments of securities when the issuer is experiencing significant financial difficulties; and

 

considerations specific to an industry sector.

Should we conclude that an unrealized loss is other-than-temporary, the loss is recorded in the income statement but there is no impact on total shareholders’ equity as the securities are accounted for at estimated fair value, with unrealized losses included in reserves until they are realized or determined to be other-than-temporary. See “—Critical Accounting Policies”.

As of December 31, 2006, our total investment assets were RMB 686,804 million (US$88,006 million) and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2006 was 4.27%. The investment yield primarily reflected increased investments in debt and equity securities, favorable capital market conditions in 2006 compared to 2005, particularly in the PRC securities market, as well as systematic adjustment of our investment strategies and expanded investment channels for insurance companies. As of December 31, 2005, our total investment assets were RMB 494,356 million (US$61,257 million) and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2005 was 3.86%. The investment yield for the period primarily reflected increased proportion of our investments in debt securities and decreased proportion of our investments in term deposits among our investment assets, favorable capital market conditions in 2005 compared to 2004, as well as disciplined application of our investment policies and expanded investment channels for insurance companies. As of December 31, 2004, our total investment assets were RMB 374,890 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2004 was 3.5%. The investment yield for this period primarily reflected an increase in interest income from floating rate negotiated deposits and higher yields from newly purchased bonds and subordinated bonds, as a resulted of an increase in benchmark deposit rate by Chinese central bank in 2004. As of December 31, 2003, our total investment assets were RMB 279,248 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2003 was 3.4%. The investment yield for this period (which includes the investment yield for investments held by CLIC through September 30, 2003) primarily reflected a relatively higher

level of investments in lower-yielding resale agreements and bank deposits due to limited market capacity.

For 2004, 2005 and 2005,2006, we calculated the investment yields for a given year by dividing the net investment income for that year by the average of the ending balance of that year and the previous year. Yields for 2003 were calculated as the weighted average (weighted according to the amount of investment income for the relevant periods) of the yields for the first three quarters of CLIC (without giving effect to the restructuring) and the fourth quarter China Life of 2003. The yields for such periods were calculated by dividing the investment income of CLIC or China Life for the relevant nine or three-month period by the average of the ending balances for that nine or three-month period and the previous nine or three-month period.

Mix of Products

The following table sets forth, for the transferred and new policies, premium and deposit information as of or for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 20052006 by type of product in our individual life insurance business, group life insurance business and accident and health insurance business.

  As of or for the year ended
December 31,
  Compound
annual
growth rate
   As of or for the year ended
December 31,
  

Compound

annual

growth rate

 
  2003  2004  2005  2005  (2003-2005)   2004  2005  2006  2006  (2004-2006) 
  RMB  RMB  RMB  US$     RMB  RMB  RMB  US$   
  (in millions)     (in millions) 

Individual life insurance business(1)

                    

Whole life and term life insurance:

                    

Gross written premiums

  16,292  19,812  23,494  2,911  20.09%  19,812  23,494  28,257  3,621  19.43%

Endowment:

                    

Gross written premiums

  16,998  26,511  35,480  4,396  44.48%  26,511  35,480  43,582  5,585  28.22%

Deposits

  75,619  65,569  60,310  7,473  (10.69)%  65,569  60,310  69,583  8,916  3.02%

Annuities:

                    

Gross written premiums

  3,618  3,790  4,231  524  8.14%  3,790  4,231  8,247  1,057  47.51%

Deposits

  1,700  1,412  2,173  269  13.06%  1,412  2,173  772  99  (26.06)%

Group life insurance business(1)

                    

Whole life and term life insurance:

                    

Gross written premiums

  255  344  698  86  65.45%  344  698  912  117  62.82%

Deposits

  —    98  101  13  —     98  101  169  22  31.32%

Annuities:

                    

Gross written premiums

  —    —    169  21  —     —    169  232  30  —   

Deposits

  10,117  21,105  21,528  2,668  45.87%  21,105  21,528  18,411  2,359  (6.6)%

Endowment:

                    

Premiums

  —    —    —    —    —     —    —    —    —    —   

Deposits

  —    553  1,834  227  —     553  1,834  2,506  321  112.88%

Accident and health insurance business(2)

                    

Accident gross written insurance premiums

  4,880  4,977  5,135  636  2.58%  4,977  5,135  5,148  660  1.70%

Health gross written insurance premiums

  5,325  5,629  5,732  710  3.75%  5,629  5,732  5,942  761  2.74%

(1)including long-term health and accident products

(2)including short-term health and accident products only

Our revenues and profitability are affected by changes in the mix of products we offer. In recent years the Chinese insurance market has been moving away from insurance policies offering fixed rates of return in favor of participating and investment-related products, and we expect these trends to continue. Consistent with these trends, participating life insurance and annuity products, have been our fastest-growing individual life insurance products.

Participating products tend to present us with less market risk, since we have more flexibility to set the level of dividends and because participating products are subject to guaranteed rates which are lower than those of non-participating products. In addition, changes in interest rates have less of an impact on their surrender rates than on those of non-participating policies. Conversely, participating products tend to be less profitable for us than non-participating products, largely because the terms of these contracts effectively commit us to sharing a portion of our earnings from participating products with our policyholders. Pursuant to guidelines issued by the CIRC, we are required to pay to our participating policyholders dividends which are no less than 70% of the distributable investment earnings and mortality gains on participating products. However, participating products still provide us with attractive profit contributions given the growing level of sales volume they produce.

Products classified as investment-type products also affect our revenues, since only a portion of the payments we receive under them are recorded in our consolidated income statement as policy fees, while the majority of the payments are recorded as deposit liabilities on our balance sheet. For the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, total deposits were RMB 91,441 million (US$11,717 million), an increase of 6.4% from RMB 85,946 million (US$10,650 million), a decrease of 3.1% from RMB 88,737 million in 2004.2005. Although deposits are a measure of business volume and contribute to our profitability, they are not reflected in our revenues. Since the fourth quarter of 2003, we have adjusted our product selling strategy to concentrate more on risk-type products, which contribute more to our revenues as premium income.

Another factor affecting our revenue is the fact that a substantial amount of the premiums we receive on many individual and group life insurance products are made in single payments, rather than over the course of the policy. For the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005 2004 and 2003,2004, 9.3%, 13.8%9.3% and 34%13.8% of our total first-year gross written premiums were from single premium products. We believe that the popularity of single premium products is in line with purchasing patterns and demand in China. We have, however, adjusted our premium structure to focus more on sales of products with regular premiums, especially products with regular premiums for ten years or more, which has reduced the proportion of single written premiums of our total first-year gross written premiums in 2005 and 2004. We believe that such strategy could contribute to a more steady development of our business and enhance the retention rate of our sales agent force.

Reinsurance

The amounts presented in the historical consolidated statements of income for revenues and policyholder benefits are net of amounts ceded to reinsurers. Under the PRC insurance law and CIRC’s regulations, prior to 2003, life insurance companies in China were required to reinsure 20% of its accident and health insurance risks with China Reinsurance (Group) Company, as statutory reinsurer. The statutory reinsurance requirement is now beingwas phased out. Atout beginning in 2003 and from the beginning of 2003, the percentage of

accident and health insurance risks that our predecessor had to reinsure decreased by 5%, from 20% to 15%, and it was scheduled to decrease by a further 5% per year until it was phased out completely at the beginning of 2006.2006 there is no such statutory requirement. We are also party to various reinsurance agreements with China Life Re for the reinsurance of individual risks, group risks and defined blocks of business. As of December 31, 2005,2006, substantially all of our ceded premiums had been ceded to China Reinsurance (Group) Company and China Life Re.

Regulation

We operate in a highly regulated industry. Changes in regulation can have a significant impact on our revenues, expenses and profitability. China’s insurance regulatory regime is undergoing significant changes toward a more transparent regulatory process and a convergent movement toward international standards. Among other things, recent changes to permitted investment channels for insurance companies have impacted our investment portfolio and returns. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters”.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with HKFRS requires us to adopt accounting policies and make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements. In applying these accounting policies, we make subjective and complex judgments that frequently require estimates about matters that are inherently uncertain. Many of these policies, estimates and related judgments are common in the insurance and financial services industries; others are specific to our businesses and operations. The following sections discuss the accounting policies applied in preparing our financial statements that we believe are most dependent on the application of these judgments and estimates.

Reserves for Long-term Traditional Insurance Contracts, Long-term Investment Type Insurance Contracts and Investment Contracts with and without Discretionary Participation Feature

Long-term Traditional Insurance Contracts.Long-term traditional insurance contracts include whole life and term life insurance, endowment insurance and annuities policies with significant life or morbidity contingency risk. Premiums are recognized as revenue when due from policyholders. Benefits and expenses are provided against such revenue to recognize profits over the estimated life

of the policies. Hence, for single premium and limited pay contracts, premiums are recorded as income when due with the percent-of-premium profit margin deferred and recognized in income in a constant relationship to the amount of insurance in-force for life insurance contracts and the amount of expected benefit payments for annuities. Liabilities arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts comprise a policyholder reserve based on the net level premium valuation method and actuarial assumptions as to mortality, persistency, expenses, withdrawals and investment return including, where appropriate, a provision for adverse deviation and a deferred profit liability for the deferred percent-of- premium profit margin, as described in Note 2.9 to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report. The assumptions are established at policy issue and remain unchanged unless adverse experience causes a deficiency in liability adequacy test, as described in Note 2.8.1.c2.8.1.b to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in the annual report.

The determination of the liabilities under long-term traditional insurance contracts is dependent on estimates made by us. For the long-term traditional insurance contracts, estimates are made in two stages. Assumptions about mortality rates, morbidity rates, lapse rates, investment returns and administration and claim settlement expenses are made at inception of the contract. These assumptions are described below. A provision for adverse deviation in experience is added to the assumptions, where

appropriate. Assumptions are “locked in” for the duration of the contract. New estimates are made each subsequent year in order to determine whether the previous liabilities are adequate in the light of these latest estimates. If the liabilities are considered adequate, the assumptions are not altered. If they are not adequate, the assumptions are altered, or “unlocked”, first by reducing the provision for adverse deviation and then by reflecting current best estimate assumptions. A key feature of the adequacy testing for these contracts is that the effects of changes in the assumptions on the measurement of the liabilities and related assets are not symmetrical. Any improvements in experience will have no impact on the value of the liabilities and related assets until the liabilities are derecognized. However, a significant deterioration in experience can lead to an immediate increase in the liabilities.

We establish liabilities for long-term traditional insurance contracts based on the following assumptions:

 

Interest rates assumptions are based upon estimates of future yields on our investments. For policies issued prior to 2003, we use discount rates which increase annually from 3.8% for the year of issuance to 5.0% for year 2012 and the years thereafter, with a provision for adverse deviation ranging from 0.25% to 0.50%, as applicable. In determining our interest rate assumptions, we consider past investment experience, the current and future mix of our investment portfolio and trends in yields. Based on a review of our investment performance and market conditions, we revisedestablished the discount rates for policies issued in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, such that they increase annually from 4.00%4.0%, 3.7% and 3.65% for the year of issuance to 5.20%5.2% for the year of 2013 and the years thereafter,after, 5.17% for the year 2013 and the years thereafter and 5.0% for the year 2012 and the years thereafter, with a provision for adverse deviation ranging from 0.25% to 0.5%, as applicable. Actual investment yieldsWe established the discount rate for policies issued in 2006, such that it is 5.0% for the year of 2006 and increases annually from 4.6% for the year of 2007 to 5.4% for the year 2013 and the years ended December 31, 2003, 2004 and 2005 were 3.4%thereafter, with a provision for adverse deviation ranging from 0.25% to 0.6%, 3.5% and 3.9%, respectively.as applicable. The interest rates we assume for future years reflect increased investment in higher yielding securities, including corporate bonds, longer duration securities and equity securities.

Our assumptions for mortality and morbidity rates vary by age of the insured, and lapse rates vary by contract type. They are based on expected experience at date of contract issue plus, where applicable, a margin for adverse deviation. We review our assumptions for mortality, morbidity and lapse rates periodically, and adjust the assumption rates, where appropriate, for the policies to be issued in the subsequent year. The lapse rates of our policies in 2006 did not change significantly compared with 2005. The lapse rates of certain types of policies were higher in 2005 than in 2004 and higher in 2004 than in 2003, which we believe was primarily due to an increase in alternative investment channels available to policyholders offering a more competitive yield, surrenders of relatively larger policies by certain state-owned companies following their restructuring, which resulted in changes of insurance planning strategies of these state-owned enterprises,competition and the continued impact of governmental regulations prohibiting enterprises and other organizations from using their funds to purchase commercial group policies for individuals, as well as the commencement of preferential income tax treatments for enterprise annuity plans in certain provinces in the second half of 2005. The lapse rates of certain types of our policies were higher in 2004 than in 2003, which we believe was primarily due to the prohibition of government agencies from purchasing certain types of commercial insurance polices for individuals, increased competition, as well as the increase in interest rates available from banks and other intermediaries in 2004.individuals. In setting the mortality assumption, mortality experience was compared to and expressed as a percentage of the “CL” series of life tables. These tables were compiled by the People’s Insurance Company of China in 1994 and 1995 and issued by the People’s Bank of China, which was the principal regulatory authority of the insurance industry at the time. The tables are based on policy samples drawn from 43 subsidiaries and branches and the mortality experience of these sample policies during the period January 1, 1990 to December 31, 1993 were studied. The CIRC recently issued new series of life tables, as well as relevant rules on the application of these new tables, effective as of January 1, 2006, which require all life insurance companies in China to use these new tables for the calculation of minimum statutory reserves under the PRC GAAP. In addition, commencing from January 1, 2006, Chinese life insurance companies are no longer required to use designated life tables for product pricing.

based on policy samples drawn from 43 subsidiaries and branches and the mortality experience of these sample policies during the period January 1, 1990 to December 31, 1993 were studied. The CIRC recently issued new series of life tables, as well as relevant rules on the application of these new tables, effective as of January 1, 2006, which require all life insurance companies in China to use these new tables for the calculation of minimum statutory reserves under the PRC GAAP. In addition, commencing from January 1, 2006, Chinese life insurance companies are no longer required to use designated life tables for product pricing.

 

Our assumptions for policy administration expenses are based on an analysis of actual experience and are expressed as unit costs plus, where applicable, a margin for adverse deviation.experience. We have estimated the percentage of premiums costs used for year 1999 through 2002 to be 2% of premiums for 2002 and years prior thereto,thereto; 1.75% of premiums for 2003, 1.65-2.55% of premiums for individual life products, and 1.65% of premiums for group life products, for 2004, and2004; 1.50-1.80% of premiums for individual life products, and 1.30% of premiums for group life products, for 2005,2005; and 1.60%-1.85% of premiums for individual life products and 1.50% of premiums for group life products, for 2006, in each case plus a fixed per-policy expense.

Contracts in loss recognition use best-estimate assumptions of investment returns, mortality, lapse and policy administration expenses, without provision for adverse deviation. Mortality, morbidity, lapse and policy administration costs assumptions are the same as for policies issued since June 1999, except that there is no provision for adverse deviation so as not to create future profits. A level 3.8% interest rate comprises the best estimate of future investment returns on this business. All contracts in loss recognition were retained by CLIC pursuant to the restructuring.

Long-term Investment Type Insurance Contracts and Investment Contracts with Discretionary Participation Feature.Long-term investment type insurance contracts include life insurance and annuity contracts with significant investment features but with sufficiently significant insurance risk to still be considered insurance contracts under HKFRS4.

HKFRS4 permits the existing accounting policies to be applied to all contracts deemed to be insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features under HKFRS4. As a result, these long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation featurefeatures continue to be accounted for as follows: revenue from these contracts consists of various charges, including policy fees, handling fees, management fees and surrender charges, made against the

contract for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrender. Excess first year charges are deferred as an unearned revenue liability and are recognized in income over the life of the contracts in a constant relationship to estimated gross profits. To the extent unrealized gains or losses from available-for-sale securities affect the estimated gross profits, shadow adjustments are recognized in equity. Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expenses include benefit claims incurred in the year in excess of related contract balances and interest credited to these contracts.

The liability for long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features are equal to the policy account value. The account value consists of an accumulation of gross premium payments less policy loadings for expenses, mortality and profit plus credited interest less withdrawals and other exits.

For participating business (long-term traditional insurance contracts, long term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation features), we determine annually the amount of distributable surplus that must ultimately be paid to the participating

policyholders in the form of policyholder dividends. Distributable surplus includes the life policyholders’ share of net investment income, unrealized appreciation of certain investments and mortality gains associated with the participating business. This share is specified by the insurance contract or by local insurance regulations. Each year, management determines how much of the total distributable surplus is to be paid in the form of policyholder dividends during the following fiscal year.

Investment contracts without discretionary feature.Investment contracts without discretionary participation feature are not considered to be insurance contracts and are accounted for as a financial liability. The liability for investment contracts without discretionary participation feature represents the accumulation of premium received less charges.

Revenue from these contracts consists of various charges, including policy fees, handling fees, management fees and surrender charges, made against the contract for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrender. Excess first year charges are deferred as an unearned revenue liability and are recognized in income over the life of the contracts in a constant relationship to estimated gross profits. Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expenses include benefit claims incurred in the year in excess of related contract balances and interest credited to these contracts.

Deferred Income.Deferred income includes the deferred profit liability arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts and the unearned revenue liability arising from long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation feature.contracts. Both deferred income amounts will be released to income statement over the remaining lifetime of the business. These amounts were previously included in the liability for future life policyholder benefits.

Valuation of Investments

Debt securities that we have the ability and intent to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity. These investments are carried at amortized cost. Debt securities and equity securities that we purchase with the intention to resell in the near term are classified as trading.financial assets at fair value through income. Debt securities and equity securities other than those classified as held-to-maturity or tradingfinancial assets at fair value through income are classified as available-for-sale securities/non-trading securities. We regularly review the carrying value of our investments. If there is objective evidence of other-than-temporary impairment and if the carrying value of an investment is greater than the recoverable amount, the carrying value is reduced through a charge to income statement. The following are the policies used:

Financial assets at fair value through income/trading securities.income. Financial assets at fair value through income/tradingincome securities are carried at fair value. At each balance sheet date, the net unrealized gains or losses arising from the changes in fair value of trading securitiesfinancial assets at fair value

through income are recognized in the income statement. Profits or losses on disposal of trading securities,financial assets at fair value through income, representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amounts, are recognized in the income statement as they arise.

Held-to-maturity securities. Held-to-maturity securities are stated in the balance sheet at cost plus any discount or less any premium amortized to date. The discount or premium is amortized over the period to maturity and included as interest income or expense in the income statement.

Available-for-sale/securities/non-tradingAvailable-for-sale securities. Investments which are either designated in this category or not classified in either of the other categories are stated in the balance sheet at fair value at the balance sheet date. Changes in the fair value of individual securities are credited or debited to the investment revaluation reserve in equity until the security is sold, or is determined to be impaired. Upon disposal, the cumulative gains or losses representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the

carrying amount of the relevant securities, together with any surplus or deficit transferred from the investment revaluation reserve, is reflected in the income statement.

Financial assets other than those accounted as at fair value through income are adjusted for impairments, where there are declines in value that are considered to be other than temporary. In evaluating whether a decline in value is other than temporary, we consider several factors including, but not limited to the following: (a) the extent and duration of the decline; (b) the financial condition, and near-term prospects, of the issuer; and (c) our ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time to allow for a recovery of value. When the decline in value is considered other than temporary, relevant financial assets are written down to their net realized value, and the charge is recorded in “Net realized gains/(losses) on financial assets” in the period the impairment is recognized. The impairment loss is reversed through the income statement if in a subsequent period the fair value of a debt security increases and the increase can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized through income statement.

The fair value of our debt securities and equity securities is determined as follows:

Debt securitiessecurities.. The fair values of debt securities are generally based on current bid prices. Where current bid prices are not readily available, fair values are estimated using either prices observed in recent transactions, values obtained from current bid prices of comparable investments and valuation techniques when the market is not active.

Equity securitiessecurities.. The fair values of equity securities are based on current bid prices.

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits) and securities purchased or sold under agreements to resell or repurchase.The carryingfair values of term deposits (excluding structured deposits) and securities purchased or sold under agreements to resell or repurchase areapproximate the carrying amounts of these assets in the balance sheet.

Structured deposits. As the market for structured deposits is not active, we establishedestablish fair value by using discounted cash flow analysis and option pricing models as the valuation technique. We use the U.S. dollar swap rate, the benchmark rate, to determine the fair value of financial instrument. Due to the complexity of the structured deposits, significant judgment and estimates are involved in the absence of quoted market values. These estimates are based on valuation methodologies and assumptions deemed appropriate in the circumstances.

Valuation of Fixed Assets

In general, property, plant and equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment loss. However, some property, plant and equipment on hand as of January 1, 1997 was acquired by our predecessor as a result of the prior restructuring in 1996 of People’s Insurance Company of China, a state-owned enterprise. Our predecessor is unable to obtain historical cost information for assets which were transferred to it in that restructuring. As a result, this property, plant and equipment has been stated at deemed cost based on a valuation performed as of January 1, 2000, rather than at historical cost less depreciation, which is the method required by U.S. GAAP. We have not been able to quantify the effect of the difference in accounting treatment because we do not have available to us sufficiently detailed historical cost records relating to these assets. The fair market value recorded in the opening balance sheet as of January 1, 2000 has been carried forward as the deemed acquisition cost relating to these assets, for purposes of HKFRS and U.S. GAAP.

Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

The costs of acquiring new and renewal business including commissions, underwriting and policy issue expenses, which vary with and are primarily related to the production of new and renewal business, are deferred. Deferred policy acquisition costs are subject to recoverability testing at the time of policy issue and at the end of each accounting period. Future investment income is taken into account in assessing recoverability.

Deferred policy acquisition costs for long-term traditional insurance contracts are amortized over the premium paying period as a constant percentage of expected premiums. Expected premiums are based upon assumptions defined at the date of policy issue. These assumptions are consistently applied throughout the premium paying period unless adverse experience causes a deficiency in liability adequacy test.

Deferred policy acquisition costs for long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation feature are amortized over the expected life of the contracts as a constant ratepercent of the present value of estimated gross profits expected to be realized over the life of the contract. To the extent unrealized gains or losses from available-for-sale securities affect the estimated gross profits, shadow adjustments are recognized in the shareholders’ equity. Estimated gross profits include expected amounts to be assessed for mortality, administration, investment and surrender less benefit claims in excess of policyholder balances, administrative expenses and interest credited. Estimated gross profits are revised regularly and the future interest rate used to compute the present value of revised estimates of expected gross profits is the latest revised rate applied to the remaining benefit periods. Deviations of actual results from estimated experience are reflected in the income statement.

Revenue Recognition

Premium and policy feesPremiums from long-term traditional life insurance contracts are recognized as revenue when due from the policyholders. Revenue from long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts consists of policy fees, handling fees, management fees and surrender charges assessed for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrenders during the year which are recognized when due.

Premiums from the sale of short-term accident and health insurance contracts are recorded when written and are accreted to earnings on a pro-rata basis over the term of the related policy coverage. Contracts for which the period of risk differs significantly from the contract period recognize premiums over the period of risk in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided.

Net investment incomeNet investment income is comprised of interest income from term deposits, cash and cash equivalents, debt securities, securities purchased under agreements to resell, policy loans, and dividend income from equity securities less interest expense from securities sold under agreements to repurchase and investment expenses. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis using the effective interest rate method. Dividend income is recognized when the right to receive a dividend payment is established.

Deferred taxation

Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Currently enacted tax rates are used in the determination of deferred income tax.

Deferred income tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be recognized.

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In MayOn September 19, 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”)AICPA issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No.154 “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections”. SFAS No.154 replaces APB Opinion No.20, Accounting Changes, and FASB Statement No.3, Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements, and changes the requirements for the accounting for and reporting of a change in accounting principle. The statement establishes, unless impracticable, retrospective application as the required method for reporting a change in accounting principle in the absence of explicit transition requirements specific to the newly adopted accounting principle. Effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. We are required to adopt SFAS No.154 in the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2006. We believe that the effects of adoption SFAS No.154 will not have material impact on our financial statements.

In September 2005, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee (“AcSEC”) of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”) issued Statement of Position (“SOP”) 05-1, “Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection Withwith Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts.”Contracts” (SOP 05-1). SOP 05-1 provides guidance on accounting by insurance enterprises for deferred acquisition costsDAC on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in SFAS No.FAS 97. The SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights, or coveragescoverage that occurs by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. This SOP 05-1 is effective for internal replacements occurring in fiscal years beginning afteryear ending December 15, 2006. We will adopt SOP 05-1 on January 1,31, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact of SOP 05-1SOP05-1 on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

On February 16, 2006, the FASB issued FAS 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments” (FAS 155), an amendment of FAS 140 and FAS 133. FAS 155 allows us to include changes in fair value in earnings on an instrument-by-instrument basis for any hybrid financial instrument that contains an embedded derivative that would otherwise be required to be bifurcated and accounted for separately under FAS 133. FAS 155 is effective for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2007. We have considered the effects of adopting FAS 155 and do not expect it to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

On July 13, 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (FIN 48), which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income tax positions. FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attributable for the financial statement recognition and measurement of an income tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, and additional disclosures. The cumulative effect of adopting FIN 48 is to be recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption. FIN 48 is effective for the Group’s fiscal year ending December 31, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact of FIN 48 on the Group’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In September 2006, the FASB issued FAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (FAS 157). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for accounting periods beginning on or after November 15, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact of FAS 157 on our consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In November 2005,February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) SFAS No.115-1/124-1,FAS 159, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary impairmentFair Value Option for Financial Assets and Its ApplicationFinancial Liabilities” (FAS 159). FAS 159 permits entities to Certain Investments”. The FSP nullifieschoose to measure at fair value many financial instruments and certain other items that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. Subsequent changes in fair value for designated items will be required to be reported in earnings in the accounting guidance relating to the recognition of investment portfolio other-than-temporary impairments of EITF 03-01, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairmentcurrent period. FAS 159 also establishes presentation and Its Application to Certain Investments”; carries forward the disclosure requirements included in the EITF 03-01for similar types of assets and references existing other-than-temporary impairment guidance including SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities. The FSPliabilities measured at fair value. FAS 159 is effective for financial statements issued for accounting periods beginning on January 1, 2006 and is not expected to have a materialor after November 15, 2007. We are currently assessing the impact of FAS 159 on our consolidated financial statements.position and results of operations.

Inflation

In recent years, China has not experienced significant inflation, and thus inflation has not had a significant effect on our business during the past three years. According to the China Statistical Bureau, China’s overall national inflation rates, as represented by the general consumer price index, were approximately 1.8%1.5%, 1.8% and 3.9% in 2006, 2005 and 1.2% in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively.

Foreign Currency Fluctuation Impact

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the People’s Republic of China—Government control of currency conversion and the fluctuation of the Renminbi may materially and adversely affect our operations and financial results” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk—Foreign Exchange Risk”.

Recent DevelopmentsClass Action Litigation

Class Action Litigations

Between March 16, 2004China Life and May 14, 2004,certain of its former directors (the “defendants”) have been named in nine putative class action lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against China Lifebetween March 16, 2004 and certain of its officers and directors. TheseMay 14, 2004. The lawsuits were brought on behalf of a class of purchasers of the publicly traded securities of China Life and allege that the defendants named therein violated Section 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (“Exchange Act Claims”), and Sections 11 and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 by, among other things, omittinghave been ordered to disclose in the prospectus filed in connection with the Company’s December 2003 initial public offering of its stock that the National Audit Office of China was conducting an audit of the predecessor of China Life’s parent, CLIC. The Court ordered that the nine actions be consolidated and restyledIn re China Life Insurance Company Limited Securities Litigation, No.NO. 04 CV 2112 (TPG), and that a consolidated amended complaint be filed.. Plaintiffs filed a consolidated amended complaint on January 19, 2005, which namednames China Life, Wang Xianzhang (former director), Miao Fuchun (former director) and Wu Yan (former director) as defendants. The consolidated amended complaint alleges that the defendants named therein violated Sections 10(b) and asserts only20(a) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act Claims. Defendantsof 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. China Life has engaged U.S. counsel to contest vigorously on the lawsuits. The defendants jointly moved to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint on March 21, 2005. Plaintiffs then further amended their complaint. Defendants moved to dismiss the second amended complaint on November 18, 2005. That motion has been fully briefed and is pending before the Court.

SEC Informal Inquiry

On April 27, 2004, we received The likelihood of an informal inquiry, dated April 26, 2004, from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) requesting usunfavorable outcome is still uncertain. No provision has been made with respect to produce documents and other relevant information on certain matters. The SEC has advised us that the informal inquiry should not be construed as an indication by the SEC or its staff that any violations of law have occurred, or as a reflection upon any person, entity or security. We are continuing to fully cooperate with the SEC’s inquiry.these lawsuits.

OPERATING RESULTS

As discussed elsewhere in this annual report, the restructuring of our predecessor CLIC was legally effective under PRC law and the restructuring on June 30, 2003; for accounting purposes, however, the restructuring is deemed to have occurred as of September 30, 2003. Accordingly, our historical consolidated income statement data for 2003 includes data for our predecessor through September 30, 2003 and data for China Life from October 1, 2003 throughYear Ended December 31, 2003. As described more fully below, the year-on-year changes for many of the line items discussed below reflect the effect of the restructuring. For example,2006 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2005

Net Premiums Earned and Policy Fees

Net premiums earned and policy fees increased by RMB 18,809 million, or 23.5%, to RMB 98,847 million in 2006 from RMB 80,038 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to increases in net premiums earned and policy fees from the individual life insurance and group life insurance businesses. Net premiums earned from participating products of long-term traditional insurance contracts were RMB 41,001 million in 2006, an increase of RMB 9,985 million, or 32.2%, from RMB 31,016 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increased market demand, as well as our increased sales efforts, for 2004 and for the time period from October 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003 does not include anyparticipating endowment products. Of total net premiums earned in 2006, RMB 2,205 million was attributable to single premium products and RMB 78,952 million was attributable to regular premium products (including both first-year and renewal premiums). Of total net premiums earned in 2005, RMB 1,896 million was attributable to single premium products and RMB 62,027 million was attributable to regular premium products.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Net premiums earned and policy fees attributablefrom the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 17,770 million, or 25.8%, to RMB 86,519 million in 2006 from RMB 68,749 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to increases in renewal premiums, policy fees and new policy premiums.

Group Life Insurance Business

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the non-transferred policies which were retainedgroup life insurance business increased by CLIC. Likewise,RMB 478 million, or 38.0%, to RMB 1,735 million in 2006 from RMB 1,257 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to increases in sales of whole-life insurance products and an increase in policy fees.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Net premiums earned from the investment assets retained by CLIC are not included in our balance sheet as of December 31, 2003 and the income from such retained investment assets attributable to the period from October 1, 2003 through December 31, 2003 and for 2004, both realized and unrealized, is not included in our income statement. The impact of the restructuring on accident and health insurance business (both of which comprise short-term products) increased by RMB 561 million, or 5.6%, to RMB 10,593 million in 2006 from RMB 10,032 million in 2005. Gross written premiums from the accident insurance business increased by RMB 13 million, or 0.3%, to RMB 5,148 million in 2006 from RMB 5,135 million in 2005 and gross written premiums from the health insurance business increased by RMB 210 million, or 3.7%, to RMB 5,942 million in 2006 from RMB 5,732 million in 2005. These increases were primarily due to our increased sales efforts for accident insurance business but offset in part by our adjustment of our sales strategies for health insurance business to reduce our sales of certain health products with relatively higher risks.

Net Investment Income

Net investment income increased by RMB 8,257 million, or 49.5%, to RMB 24,942 million in 2006 from RMB 16,685 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the growth in investment assets during 2006 and an increase in investment yield.

As of December 31, 2006, total investment assets were RMB 686,804 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2006 was 4.27%. As of December 31, 2005, total investment assets were RMB 494,356 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2005 was 3.86%. This increase was primarily due to increased investments in debt and equity securities, favorable adjustment of our investment portfolio, favorable capital market conditions and expanded investment channels for insurance companies. Our investment income is less significant than thataffected by many factors, including the volatility of the securities markets in China. Changes in the PRC capital markets and volatilities in the PRC securities markets in the future could have an impact on our net investment income, and accordingly an adverse impact on our net profit.

Net Realized Gains/(Losses) on Financial Assets

Net realized gains on financial assets increased by RMB 2,105 million to RMB 1,595 million in 2006 from net losses of RMB 510 million in 2005. The results in 2006 reflected net realized losses of RMB 6 million on debt securities and net realized gains of RMB 1,601 million on equity securities, which was primarily due to the favorable China stock market in 2006.

Net Fair Value Gains on Assets at Fair Value Through Income (Held-for-Trading)

We reflect net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading) in current year income. Our net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading) increased by 19,784 million, to RMB 20,044 million in 2006 from RMB 260 million in 2005. The results in 2006 reflected net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading) of RMB 305 million on debt securities, resulting from favorable conditions in debt securities markets in 2006 and increased investments in debt securities. Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading) of RMB 19,739 million on equity securities, resulting from extremely favorable conditions in equity securities markets and increased investments in equity securities.

Other Income

Other income increased by RMB 144 million, or 8.3%, to RMB 1,883 million in 2006 from RMB 1,739 million in 2005. This was primarily due to the fee income received from CLIC as the reward for assisting CLIC to mitigate its business risk arising from non-transferred policies.

Deposits and Policy Fees

Deposits are gross additions to long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts (collectively, investment-type contracts). Total deposits increased by RMB 5,495 million, or 6.4%, to RMB 91,441 million in 2006 from RMB 85,946 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume. Policy fees increased by RMB 1,014 million, or 16.7%, to RMB 7,097 million in 2006 from RMB 6,083 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the proportion of investment-type products with higher policy fee charges. Total deposits from participating products increased by RMB 5,785 million, or 7.6%, to RMB 81,749 million in 2006 from RMB 75,964 million in 2005. Total policy fees from participating products increased by RMB 917 million, or 21.4%, to RMB 5,193 million in 2006 from RMB 4,276 million in 2005.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Deposits in the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 7,872 million, or 12.6%, to RMB 70,355 million in 2006 from RMB 62,483 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the sales of investment-type contracts. Policy fees from the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 818 million, or 14.4%, to RMB 6,501 million in 2006 from RMB 5,683 million in 2005. These increases were primarily due to an increase of the proportion of investment-type contracts with higher policy fee charges.

Group Life Insurance Business

Deposits in the group life insurance business decreased by RMB 2,377 million, or 10.1%, to RMB 21,086 million in 2006 from RMB 23,463 million in 2005. Policy fees from the group life insurance business increased by RMB 196 million, or 49.0%, to RMB 596 million in 2006 from RMB 400 million in 2005. These changes were primarily due to an increase of the proportion of investment-type contracts with higher policy fee charges.

Accident and group businesses, since a greater portion ofHealth Insurance Business

There are no deposits in our accident and health insurance business.

Insurance Benefits and Claims

Insurance benefits and claims, net of amounts ceded through reinsurance, increased by RMB 14,391 million, or 26.6%, to RMB 68,420 million in 2006 from RMB 54,029 million in 2005. This increase was due to an increase in insurance benefits and claims of individual life insurance business as a result of an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 2,486 million, or 29.9%, to RMB 10,797 million in 2006 from RMB 8,311 million in 2005. This increase was principally due to an increase in the number of policies are comprisedin force and the accumulation of transferred policies.liabilities. Life insurance death and other benefits as a percentage of gross written premiums and policy fees were 10.9% and 10.3% in 2006 and 2005 respectively. Interest credited to long-term investment-type insurance contracts increased by RMB 1,492 million, or 30.5%, to RMB 6,386 million in 2006 from RMB 4,894 million in 2005. This increase primarily reflected an increase in the total policyholder account balance.

Insurance benefits and claims, net of amounts ceded through reinsurance, attributable to participating products increased by RMB 8,545 million, or 34.2%, to RMB 33,551 million in 2006 from RMB 25,006 million in 2005. Of these insurance benefits and claims attributable to participating products, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 599 million, or 14.8%, to RMB 4,652 million in 2006 from RMB 4,053 million in 2005, the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 6,501 million, or 38.6%, to RMB 23,345 million in 2006 from RMB 16,844 million in 2005, and the interest credited to long-term investment-type insurance contacts increased by RMB 1,445 million, or 35.2%, to RMB 5,554 million in 2006 from RMB 4,109 million in 2005.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 14,244 million, or 30.9%, to RMB 60,405 million in 2006 from RMB 46,161 million in 2005. This increase was due to an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 2,381 million, or 30.7%, to RMB 10,125 million in 2006 from RMB 7,744 million in 2005 and the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 10,365 million, or 30.9%, to RMB 43,915 million in 2006 from RMB 33,550 million in 2005. The increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts was primarily due to an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities.

CertainGroup Life Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the group life insurance business decreased by RMB 5 million, or 0.5%, to RMB 1,016 million in 2006 from RMB 1,021 million in 2005. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease in the increment of long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities and interest credited to long-term traditional insurance contracts but offset in part by an increase in life insurance death and other benefits. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 105 million, or 18.5%, to RMB 672 million in 2006 from RMB 567 million in 2005 and the increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities decreased by RMB 104 million, or 24.4%, to RMB 323 million in 2006 from RMB 427 million in 2005. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease in the contracts in force.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 152 million, or 2.2%, to RMB 6,999 million in 2006 from RMB 6,847 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to increases in business volume in our accountingaccident and health insurance business.

Interest Credited to Investment Contracts

Interest credited to investment contracts increased by RMB 23 million, or 2.4%, to RMB 996 million in 2006 from RMB 973 million in 2005. This increase primarily reflected an increase in the total policyholder account balance. Interest credited to participating investment contracts increased by RMB 12 million, or 1.3%, to RMB 951 million in 2006 from RMB 939 million in 2005.

Increase in Deferred Income

Increase in deferred income includes the deferred profit liability arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts and the unearned revenue liability arising from long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts. The increase in deferred income increased by RMB 3,086 million, or 36.2%, to RMB 11,607 million in 2006 from RMB 8,521 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume.

Policyholder Dividends Resulting from Participation in Profits

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits increased by RMB 12,258 million, or 228.7%, to RMB 17,617 million in 2006 from RMB 5,359 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume and, accordingly, an increase in our reserves for participating products, as well as an increase in investment yield for participating products.

Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs increased by RMB 2,493 million, or 32.1%, to RMB 10,259 million in 2006 from RMB 7,766 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the number of policies changed following our adoptionand overall amount of HKFRSin-force business and an increase in investment income in 2006.

Underwriting and Policy Acquisition Costs

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs primarily reflect the non-deferrable portion of underwriting and policy acquisition costs. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs increased by RMB 570 million, or 30.9%, to RMB 2,415 million in 2006 from RMB 1,845 million in 2005. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs were 2.4% and 2.3% of net premiums earned and policy fees in 2006 and 2005, respectively.

Of this amount, underwriting and policy acquisition costs in the individual life insurance business and group life insurance business together increased by RMB 444 million, or 31.3%, to RMB 1,862 million in 2006 from RMB 1,418 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume during the period, as well as an increase in the sales of risk-type insurance contracts and regular-premium products, which werehave a relatively higher commission. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs in the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 126 million, or 29.5%, to RMB 553 million in 2006 from RMB 427 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume and increased market competition.

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses include the non-deferrable portion of policy acquisition costs, as well as compensation and other administrative expenses. Administrative expenses increased by RMB 2,102 million, or 29.0%, to RMB 9,339 million in 2006 from RMB 7,237 million in 2005. This increase primarily reflected the increase in business volume.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, which primarily consist of foreign exchange losses and expenses for non-core business, increased by RMB 61 million, or 7.6%, to RMB 859 million in 2006 from RMB 798 million in 2005. This increase primarily reflected an increase in charity donations including RMB 50 million for the establishment of a charitable foundation.

Income Tax

We pay income tax according to applicable Chinese enterprise income tax regulations and rules. Income tax expense, including current and deferred taxations, increased by RMB 3,409 million, or 158.9%, to RMB 5,554 million in 2006 from RMB 2,145 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume. Our effective tax rate for accounting periods commencing on2006 was 21.7% as compared with a statutory tax rate of 33%.

Net Profit Attributable to Shareholders of the Company

For the reasons set forth above, net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company increased by RMB 10,650 million, or after January 1,114.4%, to RMB19,956 million in 2006 from RMB 9,306 million in 2005. Other than reclassificationThis increase was primarily due to the increases in certain investment and insurance accounts, the adoption of HKFRS had no material impact on our shareholders’ equity and net profits forof individual life and group life insurance businesses.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Net profit in the years ended December 31, 2004individual life insurance business increased by RMB 12,993 million, or 121.8%, to RMB 23,663 million in 2006 from RMB 10,670 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the increases in investment income and business volume of regular payment products.

Group Life Insurance Business

Net profit in the group life insurance business increased by RMB 1,377 million to RMB 864 million in 2006, from a net loss of RMB 513 million in 2005. This increase was primarily due to the increases in investment income and business volume of regular payment products.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Net profit in the accident and health insurance business decreased by RMB 271 million, or 21.2%, to RMB 1,009 million in 2006 from RMB 1,280 million in 2005. The restatement,

however, has resulteddecrease in changesprofitability was primarily due to shareholders’ equity for the years of 2001increased market competition, which led to an increase in administrative expenses, offset in part by net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading) in our accident and 2002, and the net losses for the years of 2001, 2002, and 2003. See Note 2 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for more information.health insurance business.

Year Ended December 31, 2005 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2004

Net Premiums Earned and Policy Fees

Net premiums earned and policy fees increased by RMB 15,030 million, or 23.1%, to RMB 80,038 million in 2005 from RMB 65,008 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to increases in net premiums earned from the individual life insurance business, group life insurance business and accident and health insurance business, as well as increases in policy fees from the individual and group life insurance businesses. Net premiums earned from participating products of long-term traditional insurance contracts were RMB 31,016 million in 2005, an increase of RMB 8,653 million, or 38.7%, from RMB 22,363 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increased market demand, as well as our increased sales efforts, for endowment products. Of total net premiums earned in 2005, RMB 1,896 million was attributable to single premium products and RMB 62,027 million was attributable to regular premium products (including both first-year and renewal premiums). Of total net premiums earned in 2004, RMB 2,780 million was attributable to single premium products and RMB 47,670 million was attributable to regular premium products.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 13,847 million, or 25.2%, to RMB 68,749 million in 2005 from RMB 54,902 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to increase in renewal payments for regular premium products and an increase in policy fees.

Group Life Insurance Business

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the group life insurance business increased by RMB 515 million, or 69.4%, to RMB 1,257 million in 2005 from RMB 742 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to increases in sales of whole-life insurance products.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Net premiums earned from the accident and health insurance business (both of which comprise short-term products) increased by RMB 668 million, or 7.1%, to RMB 10,032 million in 2005 from RMB 9,364 million in 2004. Gross written premiums from the accident insurance business increased by RMB 158 million, or 3.2%, to RMB 5,135 million in 2005 from RMB 4,977 million in 2004 and gross written premiums from the health insurance business increased by RMB 103 million, or 1.8%, to RMB 5,732 million in 2005 from RMB 5,629 million in 2004. These increases were primarily due to our increased sales efforts for accident insurance business, offset in part by our adjustment of our sales strategies for health insurance business to reduce our sales of certain health products with relatively higher risks.

Net Investment Income

Net investment income increased by RMB 5,368 million, or 47.4%, to RMB 16,685 million in 2005 from RMB 11,317 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an overall growth in investment assets during 2005 and an increase in investment yield.

As of December 31, 2005, total investment assets were RMB 494,356 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2005 was 3.86%. As of December 31, 2004, total investment assets were RMB 374,890 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2004 was 3.46%. This increase was primarily due to increased proportion of our investments in debt securities and decreased proportion of our investments in term deposits among our investment assets, favorable capital market conditions in 2005 compared to 2004, as well as disciplined application of our investment policies and expanded investment channels for insurance companies. Our investment income is affected by many factors, including the volatility of the PRC securities markets. A decline in the PRC securities markets in the future could have a material adverse impact on our net investment income, and accordingly our net profit.

Net Realized Gains/(Losses) on Financial Assets / Net Realized Gains/(Losses) on Investments

Net realized losses on financial assets/net realized losses on investments increased by RMB 273 million, or 115.2% to RMB 510 million in 2005 from RMB 237 million in 2004. This results in 2005 reflected net realized gains of RMB 61 million on debt securities and net realized losses of RMB 571 million on equity securities, which was primarily due to the impairment of certain open-ended investment funds that were purchased at comparatively higher prices in previous years. In 2004, net realized losses was RMB 317 million on debt securities which was primarily due to the impairment of bonds entrusted with Min Fa Security Limited Company, and net realized gains was RMB 80 million on securities investment funds.

Net Fair Value Gains/(losses)(Losses) on Assets at Fair Value Through Income / Net Unrealized Gains/(Losses) on Trading Securities

We reflect net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income in current year income. Our net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income was RMB 260 million in 2005, compared to net unrealized losses on trading securities of RMB 1,061 million in 2004. The results in 2005 reflected net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income of RMB 88 million on debt securities, resulting from favorable conditions in debt securities markets in 2005, and net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income of RMB 172 million on equity securities, resulting from disciplined application of investment techniques and timing of our equity investments in 2005. The results in 2004 reflected net unrealized gains on trading securities of RMB 11 million on debt securities and net unrealized losses on trading securities of RMB 1,072 million on equity securities, due to a deep fall in the securities market in 2004.

Other Income

Other income decreased by RMB 40 million, or 2.2%, to RMB 1,739 million from RMB 1,779 million in 2004. This was primarily due to a decrease in policy management fees collected from CLIC.

Deposits and Policy Fees

Deposits are gross additions to investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts (collectively, investment-type contracts). Total deposits decreased by RMB 2,791 million, or 3.1%, to RMB 85,946 million in 2005 from RMB 88,737 million in 2004. This decrease was primarily due to decrease in sales of products of long-term investment-type insurance contracts in the individual life insurance business, offset in part by increased sales of participating annuity products in group life insurance business. Policy fees increased by RMB 889 million, or 17.1%, to RMB 6,083 million in 2005 from RMB 5,194 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the proportion of investment type products with higher policy fee charges. Total deposits from participating products

decreased by RMB 5,452 million, or 6.7%, to RMB 75,964 million in 2005 from RMB 81,416 million in 2004. Total policy fees from participating products increased by RMB 625 million, or 17.1%, to RMB 4,276 million in 2005 from RMB 3,651 million in 2004.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Deposits in the individual life insurance business decreased by RMB 4,498 million, or 6.7%, to RMB 62,483 million in 2005 from RMB 66,981 million in 2004. This decrease was primarily due to decreased sales of investment-type contracts, as a result of the adjustment of our products to focus more on short-term insurance contracts and long-term traditional insurance contracts (collectively, risk-type insurance contracts). Policy fees from the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 887 million, or 18.5%, to RMB 5,683 million in 2005 from RMB 4,796 million in 2004. These increases were primarily due to an increase of the proportion of investment-type contracts with higher policy fee charges.

Group Life Insurance Business

Deposits in the group life insurance business increased by RMB 1,707 million, or 7.8%, to RMB 23,463 million in 2005 from RMB 21,756 million in 2004. Policy fees from the group life insurance business increased by RMB 2 million, or 0.5%, to RMB 400 million in 2005 from RMB 398 million in 2004. These increases were primarily due to an increase of sales of participating annuity products, offset in part by the increased competition, resulting in a decrease in our policy fee charges for group life insurance products.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

There are no deposits in our accident and health insurance business.

Insurance Benefits and Claims

Insurance benefits and claims, net of amounts ceded through reinsurance, increased by RMB 11,730 million, or 27.7%, to RMB 54,029 million in 2005 from RMB 42,299 million in 2004. This increase was due to an increase in insurance benefits and claims of individual life insurance business as a result of an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 1,495 million, or 21.9%, to RMB 8,311 million in 2005 from RMB 6,816 million in 2004. This increase was principally due to an increase in the number of policies in force. Life insurance death and other benefits as a percentage of gross written premiums and policy fees were 10.3% in 2005 and 2004. Interests credited to long-term investment-type insurance contracts increased by RMB 1,190 million, or 32.1%, to RMB 4,894 million in 2005 from RMB 3,704 million in 2004. This increased was primarily reflected an increase in the total policyholder account balance. Insurance benefits and claims, net of amounts ceded through reinsurance, attributable to participating products increased by RMB 6,939 million, or 38.4%, to RMB 25,006 million 25,006 in 2005 from RMB 18,067 million in 2004. Of these insurance benefits and claims attributable to participating products, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 1,393 million, or 52.4%, to RMB 4,053 million in 2005 from RMB 2,660 million in 2004, the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 4,474 million, or 36.2%, to RMB 16,844 million in 2005 from RMB 12,370 million in 2004, and the interest credited to long-term investment-type insurance contacts increased by RMB 1,072 million, or 35.3%, to RMB 4,109 million in 2005 from RMB 3,037 million in 2004.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 10,720 million, or 30.2%, to RMB 46,161 million in 2005 from RMB 35,441 million in 2004. This increase was due to the increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 1,322 million, or 20.6%, to RMB 7,744 million in 2005 from RMB 6,422 million in 2004 and the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 8,209 million, or 32.4%, to RMB 33,550 million in 2005 from RMB 25,341 million in 2004.

Group Life Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the group life insurance business increased by RMB 581 million, or 132.0%, to RMB 1,021 million in 2005 from RMB 440 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 173 million, or 43.9%, to RMB 567 million in 2005 from RMB 394 million in 2004 and the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 407 million, or 2035.0%, to RMB 427 million in 2005 from RMB 20 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the launch and satisfactory sales of a new group product in 2005, for which we started to allocate reserves in the same year.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 429 million, or 6.7%, to RMB 6,847 million in 2005 from RMB 6,418 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to increases in business volume and further strengthening of claim reserves, offset in part by a decrease in claims ratio in our accident and health insurance business.

Interest Credited to Investment Contracts

Interest credited to investment contracts increased by RMB 357 million, or 58.0%, to RMB 973 million in 2005 from RMB 616 million in 2004. This increase primarily reflected an increase in the total policyholder account balance. Interest credited to participating investment contracts increased by RMB 369 million, or 64.7%, to RMB 939 million in 2005 from RMB 570 million in 2004.

Increase in Deferred Income

Increase in deferred income includes the deferred profit liability arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts and the unearned revenue liability arising from long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation feature. Increase in deferred income increased by RMB 728 million, or 9.3%, to RMB 8,521 million in 2005 from RMB 7,793 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities.

Policyholder Dividends resulting from Participation in Profits

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits increased by RMB 3,311 million, or 161.7%, to RMB 5,359 million in 2005 from RMB 2,048 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to increases in our reserves for participating products as a result of increase in business volume, as well as an increase in investment yield, which led to an increase in dividend scales.

Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs increased by RMB 1,503 million, or 24.0%, to RMB 7,766 million in 2005 from RMB 6,263 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in number and overall amount of policies in force.

Underwriting and Policy Acquisition Costs

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs primarily reflect the non-deferrable portion of underwriting and policy acquisition costs. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs increased by RMB 373 million, or 25.3%, to RMB 1,845 million in 2005 from RMB 1,472 million in 2004. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs were 2.3% of net premiums earned and policy fees in both of 2005 and 2004.

Of this amount, underwriting and policy acquisition costs in the individual life insurance business and group life insurance business together increased by RMB 367 million, or 34.9%, to RMB 1,418 million in 2005 from RMB 1,051 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume during the period, as well as an increase in the sales of risk-type insurance contracts and regular-premium products, which have a relatively higher commission. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs in the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 6 million, or 1.4%, to RMB 427 million in 20042005 from RMB 421 million in 2005.2004. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume.

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses include the non-deferrable portion of policy acquisition costs, as well as compensation and other administrative expenses. Administrative expenses increased by RMB 652 million, or 9.9%, to RMB 7,237 million in 2005 from RMB 6,585 million in 2004. This increase primarily reflected the increase in business volume.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, which primarily consist of foreign exchange losses and expenses for non-core business (including expenses incurred for our policy management services for CLIC), increased by RMB 667 million, or 509.2%, to RMB 798 million in 2005 from RMB 131 million in 2004. This increase primarily reflected an increase in foreign exchange losses resulting from our assets held in foreign currencies, which were affected by the appreciation of the Renminbi in 2005.

Income Tax

We pay income tax according to applicable Chinese enterprise income tax regulations and rules. Income tax expense, including current and deferred taxations, decreased by RMB 135 million, or 5.9%, to RMB 2,145 million in 2005 from RMB 2,280 million in 2004. This decrease was primarily due to increased interest income from government bonds which are not taxable. Our effective tax rate for 2005 was 18.6% as compared with a statutory tax rate of 33%.

Net Profit Attributable to Shareholders of the Company

For the reasons set forth above, net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company increased by RMB 2,135 million, or 29.8%, to RMB 9,306 million in 2005 from RMB 7,171 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to the increases in net profits of individual life and accident and health insurance businesses.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Net profit in the individual life insurance business increased by RMB 2,167 million, or 25.5%, to RMB 10,670 million in 2005 from RMB 8,503 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume of regular payment products.

Group Life Insurance Business

Net loss in the group life insurance business increased by RMB 217 million, or 73.3%, to RMB 513 million in 2005, from RMB 296 million in 2004. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the proportion of group life revenues derived from sales of new products in group life insurance business, resulting in relatively higher level of in reserves of group life insurance business, as well as increased competition in group life insurance business, which led to an increase in acquisition costs of group life insurance business.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Net profit in the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 108 million, or 9.2%, to RMB 1,280 million in 2005 from RMB 1,172 million in 2004. The increase in profitability was primarily due to a decrease in the claims ratio in our accident and health insurance businesses. The overall performance of the accident business remained strong. The adverse performance of our overall health business was improved due to our increased control of health products and the adjustment of sales strategy to reduce the sales of certain products with relatively higher risks.

Year Ended December 31, 2004 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2003

Net Premiums Earned and Policy Fees

Net premiums earned and policy fees decreased by RMB 2,208 million, or 3.3%, to RMB 65,008 million in 2004 from RMB 67,216 million in 2003. This decrease was primarily due to the effect of the restructuring described above as well as a decrease in policy fees from the individual life insurance business, offset in part by increases in net premiums earned from the individual life insurance business, group life insurance business and accident and health insurance business.

Net premiums earned and policy fees attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 14,201 million, or 28.0%, to RMB 65,008 million in 2004 from RMB 50,807 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to increases in net premiums earned from the individual life insurance, group life insurance business and the accident and health insurance businesses, offset in part by a decrease in policy fees from the individual life insurance business. Net premiums earned from risk-type participating products were RMB 22,363 million in 2004, an increase of RMB 8,946 million, or 66.7%, from RMB 13,417 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increased market demand, as well as our increased sales efforts, for endowment products. Of total net premiums earned in 2004, RMB 2,780 million was attributable to single premium products and RMB 47,670 million was attributable to regular premium products (including both first-year and renewal premiums). Of total net premiums earned in 2003 and attributable to the transferred and new policies, RMB 4,553 million was attributable to single premium products and RMB 32,610 million was attributable to regular premium products.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the individual life insurance business decreased by RMB 3,639 million, or 6.2%, to RMB 54,902 million in 2004 from RMB 58,541 million in 2003. This

decrease was primarily due to the restructuring effect, as well as a reduction in policy fees, offset in part by increases in sales of endowment products and whole life products, as a result of the adjustment of our product selling strategy to concentrate more on risk-type products.

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the individual life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 12,614 million, or 29.8%, to RMB 54,902 million in 2004 from RMB 42,288 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to increases in sales of endowment products and whole life products, offset in part by a reduction in policy fees, as a result of the adjustment of our product selling strategy in the last quarter of 2003 to concentrate more on risk-type products and regular premium products.

Group Life Insurance Business

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the group life insurance business increased by RMB 154 million, or 26.2%, to RMB 742 million in 2004 from RMB 588 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in sales of investment-type products, which led to a growth in policy fees, and an increase in sales of whole-life insurance products, notwithstanding the effect of the restructuring described above.

Net premiums earned and policy fees from the group life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 310 million, or 71.8%, to RMB 742 million in 2004 from RMB 432 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in sales of investment-type products, which led to a growth in policy fees and an increase in sales of whole-life insurance products.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Net premiums earned from the accident and health insurance business (which comprises short-term products) increased by RMB 1,277 million, or 15.8%, to RMB 9,364 million in 2004 from RMB 8,087 million in 2003. Gross written premiums from the accident insurance business increased by RMB 97 million, or 2.0%, to RMB 4,977 million in 2004 from RMB 4,880 million in 2003 and gross written premiums from the health insurance business increased by RMB 304 million, or 5.7%, to RMB 5,629 million in 2004 from RMB 5,325 million in 2003. These changes were primarily due to our increased sales efforts for short-term products, as well as an increase in sales of our long-term products with short-term riders.

Net changes in unearned premium reserves for accident and health insurance business decreased by RMB 480 million, or 87.8%, to RMB 67 million in 2004 from RMB 547 million in 2003. This decrease was primarily due to the fact that premiums received from accident and short-term health insurance business for the first half of 2003 were proportionately higher than those from the second half of 2003, and premiums for the first half of 2004 were proportionately lower than those from the second half of 2004.

Substantially all of the net premiums earned were from transferred and new policies.

Net Investment Income

Net investment income increased by RMB 1,492 million, or 15.2%, to RMB 11,317 million in 2004 from RMB 9,825 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an overall growth in investment assets during 2004, notwithstanding the restructuring effect described above.

As of December 31, 2004, total investment assets were RMB 374,890 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2004 was 3.5%. As of December 31, 2003, total investment assets were RMB 279,248 million and the investment yield for the year ended December 31, 2003 was 3.4% (which includes the investment yield for investment assets held by CLIC through September 30, 2003). This increase was primarily due to an increase in interest income from floating rate negotiable deposits and higher yields from newly issued bonds and subordinated bonds, as a result of an increase in benchmark deposit rate by the Chinese central bank in 2004.

Net Realized Gains/Losses on Investments

Net realized losses on investments was RMB 237 million in 2004, compared to net realized gains of RMB 868 million in 2003. This change reflected net realized losses of RMB 317 million on debt securities which was primarily due to the impairment of bonds entrusted with Min Fa Security Limited Company, and net realized gains of RMB 80 million on securities investment funds in 2004. In 2003, net realized gains was RMB 550 million on debt securities and RMB 318 million on securities investment funds. See Note 20(i) of the notes to the financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report for more information on the bonds entrusted with Min Fa Security Limited Company.

Net Unrealized Gains/Losses on Investments

We reflect unrealized gains or losses on investments designated as trading in current period income. Our net unrealized losses on investments was RMB 1,061 million in 2004, compared to net unrealized gains of RMB 247 million in 2003. The results in 2004 reflected net unrealized gains of RMB 11 million on debt securities and net unrealized losses on securities investment funds of RMB 1,072 million, due to a deep fall in the securities market in 2004.

Other Income

Other income increased by RMB 1,052 million, or 145%, to RMB 1,779 million in 2004 from RMB 727 million in 2003. This was primarily due to the increase in policy management fees we received from CLIC under the policy management agreement entered into in September 2003.

Deposits and Policy Fees

Deposits are gross additions to long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts. Total deposits decreased by RMB 2,464 million, or 2.7%, to RMB 88,737 million in 2004 from RMB 91,201 million in 2003. Policy fees decreased by RMB 902 million, or 14.8%, to RMB 5,194 million in 2004 from RMB 6,096 million in 2003. These decreases were primarily due to the effect of restructuring described above and decreased sales of investment-type products in the individual life insurance business, offset in part by increased sales of participating annuity products in group life insurance business.

Total deposits attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 1,302 million, or 1.5%, to RMB 88,737 million in 2004 from RMB 87,435 million in 2003. Policy fees attributable to the transferred and new policies decreased by RMB 363 million, or 6.5%, to RMB 5,194 million in 2004 from RMB 5,557 million in 2003. These changes reflected increased sales of participating annuity products in group life insurance business, and decreased sales of investment-type products in the individual life insurance business, as well as an increase in the proportion of investment-type products that are single premium products. Total deposits from participating products increased by RMB 1,040 million, or 1.3%, to RMB 81,416 million in 2004 from RMB 80,376 million in 2003. Total policy fees

from participating products decreased by RMB 563 million, or 13.4%, to RMB 3,651 million in 2004 from RMB 4,214 million in 2003.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Deposits in the individual life insurance business decreased by RMB 12,981 million, or 16.2%, to RMB 66,981 million in 2004 from RMB 79,962 million in 2003. Policy fees from the individual life insurance business decreased by RMB 972 million, or 16.9%, to RMB 4,796 million in 2004 from RMB 5,768 million in 2003. These decreases reflected effect of restructuring described above, as well as the adjustment of our product selling strategy to concentrate more on long-term traditional insurance contracts, which led to a decrease in sales of investment type products.

Deposits in the individual life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies decreased by RMB 10,337 million, or 13.4%, to RMB 66,981 million in 2004 from RMB 77,318 million in 2003. Policy fees from the individual life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies decreased by RMB 584 million, or 10.9%, to RMB 4,796 million in 2004 from RMB 5,380 million in 2003. These decreases were primarily due to the adjustment of our product selling strategy to concentrate more on long-term traditional insurance contracts, which led to a decrease in sales of investment type products.

Group Life Insurance Business

Deposits in the group life insurance business increased by RMB 10,517 million, or 93.6%, to RMB 21,756 million in 2004 from RMB 11,239 million in 2003. Policy fees from the group life insurance business increased by RMB 70 million, or 21.3%, to RMB 398 million in 2004 from RMB 328 million in 2003. These increases were primarily due to an increase of sales of participating annuity products, offset in part by the effect of the restructuring described above.

Deposits in the group life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 11,639 million, or 115.0%, to RMB 21,756 million in 2004 from RMB 10,117 million in 2003. Policy fees from the group life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 221 million, or 124.9%, to RMB 398 million in 2004 from RMB 177 million in 2003. These increases were due to increased sales of participating annuity products.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

There are no deposits in our accident and health insurance business.

Insurance Benefits and Claims

Insurance benefits and claims, net of amounts ceded through reinsurance, decreased by RMB 17,930 million, or 29.8%, to RMB 42,299 million in 2004 from RMB 60,229 million in 2003. This decrease was due to the effect of restructuring described above, offset in part by an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Life insurance death and other benefits decreased by RMB 1,754 million, or 20.5%, to RMB 6,816 million in 2004 from RMB 8,570 million in 2003. This decrease was principally due to the effect of restructuring described above, offset in part by an increase in the number of policies in force. Life insurance death and other benefits as a percentage of gross written premiums and policy fees decreased to 10.3% in 2004 from 12.4% in 2003. Interests credited to long-term investment-type insurance contracts decreased by RMB 3,107 million, or 45.6%, to RMB 3,704 million in 2004 from RMB 6,811 million in 2003.

Insurance benefits and claims, net of amounts ceded through reinsurance, attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 10,557 million, or 33.3 %, to RMB 42,299 million in 2004 from RMB 31,742 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to the increase in insurance benefits and claims in the individual life insurance business as a result of an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Insurance benefits and claims attributable to participating products, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 2,124 million, or 396.3%, to RMB 2,660 million in 2004 from RMB 536 million in 2003 and the interest credited to long-term investment-type insurance contracts increased by RMB 1,193 million, or 64.7%, to RMB 3,037 million in 2004 from RMB 1,844 million in 2003.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the individual life insurance business decreased by RMB 16,786 million, or 32.1 %, to RMB 35,441 million in 2004 from RMB 52,227 million in 2003. This decrease was due to the effect of the restructuring described above, offset in part by the increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits decreased by RMB 1,322 million, or 17.1%, to RMB 6,422 million in 2004 from RMB 7,744 million in 2003 and the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts decreased by RMB 14,113 million, or 35.8%, to RMB 25,341 in 2004 from RMB 39,454 million in 2003.

Insurance benefits and claims for the individual life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 9,067 million, or 34.5 %, to RMB 35,441 million in 2004 from RMB 26,374 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits increased by RMB 3,074 million, or 91.8 %, to RMB 6,422 million in 2004 from RMB 3,348 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increased impact of the participating products, which we started to sell in 2000, and which pay survivorship benefits to policyholders every three years. The increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 4,786 million, or 23.3 %, to RMB 25,341 million in 2004 from RMB 20,555 million in 2003.

Group Life Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the group life insurance business decreased by RMB 2,680 million, or 85.9 %, to RMB 440 million in 2004 from RMB 3,120 million in 2003. This decrease was due to the effect of the restructuring described above, offset in part by the increase in business volume. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits decreased by RMB 432 million, or 52.3 %, to RMB 394 million in 2004 from RMB 826 million in 2003 and the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts decreased by RMB 492 million, or 96.1%, to RMB 20 million in 2004 from RMB 512 in 2003.

Insurance benefits and claims for the group life insurance business attributable to the transferred and new policies decreased by RMB 46 million, or 9.5 %, to RMB 440 million in 2004 from RMB 486 million in 2003. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease in life insurance death and other benefits. Of these insurance benefits and claims, life insurance death and other benefits decreased by RMB 76 million, or 16.2%, to RMB 394 million in 2004 from RMB 470 million in 2003 and the increase in liability of long-term traditional insurance contracts increased by RMB 4 million, or 25.0%, to RMB 20 million in 2004 from RMB 16 million in 2003.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Insurance benefits and claims for the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 1,536 million, or 31.5%, to RMB 6,418 million in 2004 from RMB 4,882 million in 2003. Substantially all of these amounts related to transferred and new policies. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume of health insurance business, which has a relatively higher claim rate, and an increase in medical expenses.

Liabilities for unpaid claims are estimated based on our historical experience and other actuarial assumptions that consider the effects of current developments and anticipated trends. Of these assumptions, our assumptions as to historical experience have the most significant impact on the level of liabilities. We particularly review our assumptions as to historical experience assumption against actual claims payment experience to assess the reasonableness of the level of liabilities.

Interest Credited to Investment Contracts

Interest credited to investment contracts increased by RMB 167 million, or 37.2%, to RMB 616 million in 2004 from RMB 449 million in 2003. This increase primarily reflected an increase in the total policyholder account balance, offset in part by the effect of the restructuring described above.

Interest credited to investment contracts attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 167 million, or 37.2 %, to RMB 616 million in 2004 from RMB 449 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in the total policyholder account balance. Interest credited to participating investment contract increased by RMB 179 million, or 45.8 %, to RMB 570 million in 2004 from RMB 391 million in 2003.

Increase in Deferred Income

Increase in deferred income includes the deferred profit liability arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts and the unearned revenue liability arising from long-term investment-type insurance contracts and investment contracts with discretionary participation feature. Increase in deferred income increased by RMB 1,851 million, or 31.2%, to RMB 7,793 million in 2004 from RMB 5,942 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities.

Increase in deferred income attributable to the transferred and new policies increased by RMB 1,851 million, or 31.2%, to RMB 7,793 million in 2004 from RMB 5,942 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in business volume and the accumulation of liabilities.

Policyholder Dividends and Participation in Profits

Policyholder dividends and participation in profits increased by RMB 841 million, or 69.7%, to RMB 2,048 million in 2004 from RMB 1,207 million in 2003. Virtually all of these amounts were attributable to the transferred and new policies because our predecessor only began to sell participating products in 2000. This increase was primarily due to increases in our reserves and business volume.

Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs reflects the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs attributable to the transferred and new policies. The majority of acquisition costs attributable to the transferred and new policies are deferrable. Amortization of deferred policy acquisition

costs increased by RMB 1,240 million, or 24.7%, to RMB 6,263 million in 2004 from RMB 5,023 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in number and overall amount of policies in force.

Underwriting and Policy Acquisition Costs

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs primarily reflect acquisition costs attributable to non-transferred policies in the individual life insurance business and group life insurance business, as well as the non-deferrable portion of underwriting and policy acquisition costs in transferred and new policies. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs increased by RMB 178 million, or 13.8%, to RMB 1,472 million in 2004 from RMB 1,294 million in 2003. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs were 2.26% of net premiums earned and policy fees in 2004, compared with 1.91% in 2003.

Of this amount, underwriting and policy acquisition costs in the individual life insurance business and group life insurance business together increased by RMB 161 million, or 18.1%, to RMB 1,051 million in 2004 from RMB 890 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume during the period, as well as an increase in the sales of risk-type and regular-premium products, which have a relatively higher commission. Underwriting and policy acquisition costs in the accident and health insurance business increased by RMB 17 million, or 4.2%, to RMB 421 million in 2004 from RMB 404 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to the increase in business volume.

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses include the non-deferrable portion of policy acquisition costs attributable to the transferred and new policies, as well as compensation and other administrative expenses. Administrative expenses decreased by RMB 277 million, or 4.0%, to RMB 6,585 million in 2004 from RMB 6,862 million in 2003. This decrease primarily reflected the effect of the restructuring described above, offset in part by the increase in business volume.

Other Operating Expenses

Other operating expenses, which primarily consist of employee housing benefits and expenses of non-core businesses (which includes investments in property, hotels and other operations through subsidiaries), decreased by RMB 741 million, or 85.0%, to RMB 131 million in 2004 from RMB 872 million in 2003. A substantial amount of other operating expenses in 2003 comprises investments in property, hotels and other operations through subsidiaries, which we no longer have after the restructuring. This decrease primarily reflected the effect of the restructuring described above and the effective control of the costs by us.

Income Tax

We pay income tax according to applicable Chinese enterprise income tax regulations and rules. Income tax expense, including current and deferred taxations, increased by RMB 1,100 million, or 93.2%, to RMB 2,280 million in 2004 from RMB 1,180 million in 2003. This increase was primarily due to an increase in profits and the fact that in accordance with PRC law, China Life and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited, which is controlled by China Life, are subject to tax on their income from the dates of their incorporation, June 30, 2003 and November 23, 2003. Our effective tax rate for 2004 was 24% as compared with a statutory tax rate of 33% principally because we had substantial interest income from government bonds which are not taxable.

Net Profit/(Loss) Attributable to Shareholders of the Company

For the reasons set forth above, net profit was RMB 7,171 million in 2004, compared to a net loss of RMB 4,252 million in 2003.

Individual Life Insurance Business

Net profit in the individual life insurance business was RMB 8,503 million in 2004, compared to a net loss of RMB 2,502 million in 2003. This result was primarily due to increased sales of risk-type products as well as the increased impact of the more profitable transferred and new policies in the individual life business following the restructuring.

Group Life Insurance Business

Net loss in the group life insurance business was RMB 296 million in 2004, an improvement from a net loss of RMB 1,793 million in 2003. This result was primarily due to the increased impact of the more profitable transferred and new policies in the group life business following the restructuring.

Accident and Health Insurance Business

Net profit in the accident and health insurance business decreased by RMB 208 million, or 15.1%, to RMB 1,172 million in 2004 from RMB 1,380 million in 2003. The decrease in profitability was primarily due to the increased relative weight of the health insurance business in the accident and health insurance business. The overall performance of the accident insurance remained strong. The adverse performance of our health insurance business was primarily due to higher medical costs during the period, which were not matched by price increases for our products.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Liquidity Sources

Our principal cash inflows come from insurance premiums, deposits, proceeds from sales and maturity of financial assets, and net investment income. The primary liquidity concerns with respect to these cash inflows are the risk of early withdrawals by contract holders and policyholders, as well as the risks of default by debtors, interest rate changes and other market volatilities. We closely monitor and manage these risks. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Investments”.

Additional sources of liquidity to meet unexpected cash outflows are available from our investment portfolio. As of December 31, 2005,2006, the amount of cash and cash equivalents was RMB 28,05150,213 million. In addition, substantially all of our term deposits with banks allow us to withdraw funds on deposit, subject to a penalty interest charge. As of December 31, 2005,2006, the amount of term deposits was RMB 164,869175,476 million.

Our investment portfolio also may provide us with a source of liquidity to meet unexpected cash outflows. As of December 31, 2005,2006, investments in debt securities had a fair value of RMB 267,042369,631 million. As of December 31, 2005,2006, investments in equity securities had a fair value of RMB 39,54895,493 million. However, the PRC securities market is still at an early stage of development, and we are subject to market liquidity risk because the market capitalization and trading volumes of the public exchanges are much lower than those in more developed financial markets. We also are subject to market liquidity risk due to the large size of our investments in some of the markets in which we invest. From time to time some of our positions in our investment securities may be large enough to have an influence on the market value. These factors may limit our ability to sell these investments at an adequate price, or at all.

Liquidity Uses

Our principal cash outflows primarily relate to the liabilities associated with our various life insurance, annuity and accident and health insurance products, dividend and interest payments on our insurance policies and annuity contracts, operating expenses, income taxes and dividends that may be declared and payable to our shareholders. Liabilities arising from our insurance activities primarily relate to benefit payments under these insurance products, as well as payments for policy surrenders, withdrawals and policy loans.

We believe that our sources of liquidity are sufficient to meet our current cash requirements.

Consolidated Cash Flows

The following sets forth information regarding consolidated cash flows for the periods indicated.

Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB 80,352 million in 2006, an increase of RMB 48,524 million from 2005. This increase was primarily due to our increased sales and maturity of financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading). Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB 31,828 million in the year ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of RMB 1,086 million from RMB 32,914 million in the year ended December 31, 2004. This decrease was primarily due to our increased investment in financial assets at fair value through income/trading securities.

Net cash provided by operatingused in investment activities was RMB 32,914141,038 million in 2004, a decreasethe year ended December 31, 2006, an increase of RMB 49,698 million from RMB 38,510 million2005. This increase in 2003. This decreasecash used in investing activities was primarily due to the effect of the restructuring described above.

an increase in our debt securities and term deposits. Net cash used in investment activities was RMB 91,340 million in the year ended December 31, 2005, a decrease of RMB 22,738 million from RMB 114,078 million in the year ended December 31, 2004. This decrease was primarily due to a decrease in our investments in term deposits.

Net cash used in investmentprovided by financing activities was RMB 114,07883,313 million in the year ended December 31, 2004,2006, an increase of RMB 22,596 million from RMB 108,012 in the year ended December 31, 2003. This increase2005. The changes in cash used in investingprovided by financing activities wasover these periods were primarily due to the increasecash proceeds from our A shares offering in investments in debt securities.

December 2006. Net cash provided by financing activities was RMB 60,717 million in the year ended December 31, 2005, anda decrease of RMB 5,048 million from RMB 65,765 million in the year ended December 31, 2004. This decrease in cash provided by financing activities was primarily due to an increase in surrenders in long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts. Net cash provided by financing activities was RMB 65,765 million in the year ended December 31, 2004, a decrease from RMB 97,589 million in the year ended December 31, 2003. The changes in cash provided by financing activities over these periods were primarily due to cash proceeds from our initial public offering in 2003 and a decrease in deposits in 2004.

Our global share offering in December 2003 provided cash proceeds of approximately RMB 24,707 million (US$3,062 million). As of the date of this annual report, a substantial part of the cash proceeds from our global offering was held in bank deposit accounts dominateddenominated in foreign currencies in China, part of which were held as structured deposits. We gradually converted approximately US$300 million of the cash proceeds into Renminbi to reduce foreign exchange risks. In addition, we used approximately US$250 million of the cash proceeds for investments in H shares of China Construction Bank Corporation in its initial public offering in 2005, a small portion of which was sold early this year,2006, and approximately US$125425 million for investments in foreign-currency dominateddenominated debts in China. We have also agreed to subscribeused approximately HK$1.175 billion for such number ofinvestments in H shares of Bank of China Limited that may be purchased for approximately HK$1,163 million duringin its initial public offering atin May 2006, approximately HK$2 billion for investments in H shares of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited in its initial public offering price.in October 2006 and approximately US$433 million for investments in Guangdong Development Bank in December 2006.

Our A share offering in December 2006 provided cash proceeds of approximately RMB 27,810 million (US$3,564 million). We received such cash proceeds on December 29, 2006. As of the date of this annual report, the cash proceeds from our A share offering was used to increase our capital.

Insurance Solvency Requirements

The solvency ratio of an insurance company is a measure of capital adequacy, which is calculated by dividing the actual solvency levelmargin of the company (which is its admissible assets less admissible

liabilities, determined in accordance with PRC GAAP and relevant rules) by the minimum solvency levelmargin it is required to meet. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Solvency requirements”. The following table shows the Company’s solvency ratio as of December 31, 2005:2006:

 

   As of December 31, 20052006
   

(RMB in millions,

except
percentage data)

Actual solvency margin

  59,56196,297

Minimum solvency margin

  21,78227,549

Solvency ratio

  273%350%

Insurance companies are required to calculate and report annually to the CIRC their solvency levelmargin and twelve additional financial ratios to assist it in monitoring the financial condition of insurers. A “usualAn “acceptable range” of results for each of the twelve ratios is used as a benchmark. The departure from the “usual“acceptable range” of four or more of the ratios can lead to regulatory action being taken by the CIRC.

Our solvency levelmargin as of December 31, 20052006 was approximately 2.733.5 times the minimum regulatory requirement. Among the twelve financial ratios, eleven financial ratios were within their usualacceptable ranges as determined by CIRC and our surrenderactual solvency ratio was slightly outside ofhigher than the usualacceptable range provided by the CIRC. Surrenders from both our individual and group life insurance businesses increased in 2005. The increase in surrenders of investment-type contracts in our individual life insurance businessactual solvency ratio was primarily due to the increase in alternative investment channels available to policyholders offering a more competitive yield. The increase in surrenders inproceeds received from our group life insurance business was primarily due to surrenders of relatively larger policies by certain state-owned companies following their restructuring, which resulted in changes of insurance planning strategies of these state-owned enterprises; the continued impact of governmental regulations prohibiting enterprises and other organizations from using their funds to purchase commercial group policies for individuals, as well as the commencement of preferential income tax treatments for enterprise annuity plans in certain provinces in the second half of 2005.A share offering.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

The following tables set out our contractual obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2005.2006.

 

As of December 31, 2005

  Not
later
than
1 year
  Later than
1 year but
not later
than 3 years
  Later
than 3
years but
not later
than 5
years
  Later
than
5 years
  Total
   (RMB in millions)

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,731  —    —    —    4,731

Short-term bank borrowings

  —    —    —    —    —  

Long-term bank borrowings

  —    —    —    —    —  

Operating leases

  250  248  —    23  521

Capital commitments

  121  —    —    —    121

Total

  5,102  248  —    23  5,373

Long-term Business

          

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  13,779  33,645  33,978  566,556  647,958

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  25,272  124,721  81,370  112,694  344,057

Investment contracts with discretionary participation feature

  8,217  11,970  10,650  22,087  52,924

Investment contracts without discretionary participation feature

  347  1,078  215  362  2,001

Short-term Business

  4,973  —    —    —    4,973

As of December 31, 2006

  Not later
than
1 year
  Later than
1 year but not
later than 3 years
  

Later than
3 years but not

later than 5 years

  Later than
5 years
  Total
   (RMB in millions)

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  8,227  —    —    —    8,227

Short-term bank borrowings

  —    —    —    —    —  

Long-term bank borrowings

  —    —    —    —    —  

Off balance sheet operating leases

  242  303  83  50  678

Capital commitments

  990  —    —    —    990

Total

  9,459  303  83  50  9,895

Long-term Business

          

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  18,502  38,673  41,688  749,600  848,463

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  63,897  120,247  96,152  141,699  421,995

Investment contracts with discretionary participation feature

  11,438  15,127  10,244  20,195  57,004

Investment contracts without discretionary participation feature

  1,397  633  253  677  2,960
Short-term Business  5,438  —    —    —    5,438

Capital commitments represent our commitments with respect to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment.

The amounts set forth in the table above for long-term business and short-term business in each column are the cash flows representing expected future benefit payments on policies in force as at December 31, 2005,2006, relating to premiums received through December 31, 2005.2006. No consideration is given to future premiums payments or deposits from policyholders (and the cash flows resulting therefrom), even though in the case for traditional insurance policies and certain investment contracts, the receipt of such premiums is necessary for the policies to remain in full force. The estimate is affected by numerous assumptions (depending on the product type), including assumptions related to mortality, morbidity, lapses, withdrawals, credited rates, loss ratio, claim adjustment expenses and other assumptions which affect our estimates of future payments. Many of these assumptions are inherently uncertain and outside our control. Accordingly, the actual experience may differ from our estimates.

Furthermore, as the benefit payments reported in the table above are not discounted from the date of payment back to December 31, 20052006 and do not reflect the impact of future premiums or future new deposits, the sum of these payment amounts are different from the amount of corresponding liabilities in our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2005.2006. Policyholder dividends will not become a contractual obligation until the applicable policy anniversary is reached and the dividend amount is credited to the policy benefit liability or paid to the policyholder, and hence are not included in the table above. Reinsurance recoveries have not been taken into account.

Other than as set forth under capital commitments, we had no material, individually or in the aggregate, purchase obligations as of December 31, 2005.

In March 2006, we entered into a promoters agreement with CLIC and our asset management joint venture for the formation of a professional pension company, under which we, CLIC and the asset management joint venture agreed to subscribe for 25% and 20% of its proposed total registered capital of RMB 600 million, respectively. Also in March 2006, we entered into a share subscription agreement with CLIC for the formation of a property and casualty company, under which we and CLIC agreed to subscribe for 40% and 60% of its proposed registered capital of RMB 1,000 million, respectively.2006.

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES

None.

TREND INFORMATION

Please refer to our discussion in each section under “—Overview”, “—Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations”, “—Critical Accounting Policies” and “—Operating Results”.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

As of December 31, 2005,2006, we have not entered into any off-balance sheet arrangements.

TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

See “—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Contractual Obligations and Commitments”.

RECONCILIATION OF HONG KONG FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (HKFRS)

AND UNITED STATES

GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (U.S. GAAP)

The consolidated financial statements contained in this annual report have been prepared in accordance with HKFRS, which differs in certain significant respects from U.S. GAAP. Differences between HKFRS and U.S. GAAP may have a significant impact on consolidated net profit/(loss) and consolidated shareholders’ equity.

HKFRS. There are no material differences between HKFRS and U.S. GAAP that had a materialan effect on net profit/(loss) attributed to our shareholdersprofit for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004 and 2005. The effect on net profit/(loss) of material differences between HKFRS and U.S. GAAP for the year ended December 31, 2003 was as follows:

Year Ended December 31, 2003
RMB in millions, except for per share data

Net profit/(loss) attributed to the shareholders of the Company under HKFRS

(4,252)

US GAAP adjustments

Depreciation of investment properties

(40)

Deficit on revaluation of investment properties

181

Liability adequacy test under HKFRS

2,824

Net profit/(loss) attributed to the shareholders of the Company under U.S. GAAP

(1,287)

Net profit/(loss) per share

(0.06)

There are no differences between HKFRS and U.S. GAAP that had a material effect on total shareholders’ equity as ofat December 31, 2003, 20042006 and 2005.

For more information on reconciliation from HKFRS to U.S. GAAP, see Note 34 of the notes to the financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.

ITEM 6.DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES.

DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT.MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth information regarding our current directors and executive officers. Unless otherwise indicated, their business address is c/o China Life Insurance Company Limited, 16 Chaowai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100020, China.

 

Name

  Age  

Position

Yang Chao

  5657  Chairman of the Board and executive director

Wu Yan

45Executive director and President

Wan Feng

  4849  Nominee forExecutive director and Vice President

Lin Dairen

  4748  Vice President

Liu Yingqi

  4849  Vice President

Liu Jiade

  4344  Vice President

Zhou Ying

53Chairman of Communist Party Disciplinary Commission

Su Hengxuan

  4344  Assistant to President

Miao FuchunShi Guoqing

  5955  Non-executive director

Shi GuoqingZhuang Zuojin

  5455  Non-executive director

Long Yongtu

  6364Independent non-executive director

Sun Shuyi

66Independent non-executive director

Ma Yongwei

64  Independent non-executive director

Chau Tak Hay

  63Independent non-executive director

Sun Shuyi

6564  Independent non-executive director

Cai Rang

  4950  Independent non-executive director

Ma YongweiNgai Wai Fung

  6345  Independent non-executive director

Daniel J. KuneshLiu Lefei

  6134Chief investment officer

Liu Anlin

44Chief information technology officer

Shiu Wai Chung

53  Chief actuary

Zhuang Zuojin

54Nominee for director

Yang Chao has been the chairman of our board of directors since July 2005. Mr. Yang has been the president of CLIC since May 2005. Mr. Yang also serves as a directorthe chairman of CITIC International Financial Holdings Limited.China Life Property and Casualty Company Limited since November 2006. Mr. Yang was the president of our company from June 2005 to January 2006. Between 2000 and 2005, Mr. Yang served as the chairman of the board of directors and president of both China Insurance (Holdings) Company Limited and China Insurance H.K. (Holding) Company Limited.Limited, respectively. Between 1996 and 2000, Mr. Yang was the chairman and president of CIC Holdings (Europe) Limited. Between 1976 and 1996, Mr. Yang had been a director and the general manager of the operations departmentdepartments of The People’s Insurance (Group) Company of China and The People’s Insurance Company of China, respectively, the general manager of The People’s Insurance Company of China, Shanghai Pudong branch, the deputy general manager, and the assistant general manager, deputy section chief of the Import Division, and a staff member of the Ships’ Non-marine Insurance Division of The People’s Insurance Company of China, Shanghai branch and a staff member of Bank of China, Shanghai branch. With nearlyover 30 years of experience in the insurance and banking industries, Mr. Yang is a senior economist. Mr. Yang graduated from Shanghai International Studies University and Middlesex University in the United Kingdom. Mr. Yang majored in English and business administrationBusiness Administration and has obtained a MasterMaster’s degree in Business Administration.

Wu Yan has been an executive director and president of our company since January 2006. Prior to that, Mr. Wu served as a non-executive director of our company and a vice president of CLIC since 2003. Between October 2003 and January 2006, Mr. Wu served as president and director of China Life Asset Management Company Limited. He served as party secretary of the Central Finance League and president of the National Finance Youth Union from 1998 to 2003. From 1998 to 2003, he had served as a vice minister of the central Communist Youth League Organization Department; party secretary of the Communist Youth League of Xinjiang Autonomous Region; a member of the standing committee of Beortalar Autonomous County Communist Party Committee; party secretary of the city of Bole and deputy secretary of the Communist Youth League of Xinjiang Autonomous Region; and vice minister of the Communist Youth League Organization of Xinjiang Autonomous Region. He graduated in 1981 from Xinjiang College of Finance and Economics with a major in finance. In 2002, he graduated from the China Academy of Social Sciences with a Ph.D. in National Economics.

Wan Feng has been an executive director of our company since June 2006 and a vice president of our company since 2003. Mr. Wan has been in charge of our daily operations and management as authorized by our board resolution since January 31, 2007. Mr. Wan also serves as a director of China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited since November 2006 and a director of China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited since January 2006. Prior to joining China Life, Mr. Wan served as a vice president of CLIC and general manager of its Shenzhen branch since 1999 and director of China Life–CMG since 1999. Other positions in Mr. Wan’s 23-year25-year career in the insurance industry include general manager of the Shenzhen branch of PICC Life from 1997 to 1999, and1999. Before that, Mr. Wan had also served as a director and senior vice president of the Hong Kong branch of Tai Ping Life Insurance Company. Mr. Wan has also served asCompany, assistant president of the Hong Kong branch of CLIC and deputy chief of the life insurance division at The People’s Insurance Company of theChina, Jilin provincial branch of PICC.branch. He graduated from Jilin College of Finance

and Trade with a Bachelor of Artsbachelor’s degree in economics; The openOpen University of Hong Kong with a Master ofMaster’s degree in Business Administration degree;Administration; and Nankai University in Tianjin with a doctorate degree in finance. Mr. Wan was awarded special allowance by the State Council.Council and is a senior economist.

Lin Dairen has been a vice president of our company since 2003.2003 and has been an executive director and president of China Life Pension Company Limited since November 2006. Prior to joining China Life, Mr. Lin served as general manager of CLIC’s Jiangsu branch from 2001 to 2003, deputy general manager of CLIC’s Jiangsu branch from 1999 to 2001, and as a vicedeputy general manager of PICC Life,Life’s Jiangsu branch from 1996 to 1999. Prior to that, Mr. Lin served as a division chief of life insurance division of PICC Jiangsu Branch from 1994 to 1996;1996 and vice president of Nanjing Life Insurance Company Limited; a vicedeputy division chief of life insurance division of PICC Jiangsu Branch from 1989 to 1994;1994 (acting chief); and deputy manager, section chief, vice section chief and section member of domestic business department of PICC Jiangsu Branch. As a senior economist, Mr. Lin brings to China Life 24his 26 years’ extensive operations and management experience in the insurance industry andindustry. Mr. Lin graduated from Shandong Province Weifang Medical School in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree in medicine.

Liu Yingqi has been a vice president of our company since January 2006 and has been a director of China Life Pension Company Limited since November 2006. Ms. Liu served as the chairmanchairperson of our board of supervisorssupervisory committee from August 2003 to January 2006. Between 19981997 and 2003, Ms. Liu was general manager of the group insurance department of CLIC and vicedeputy general manager of the Anhui branch of CLIC. Earlier in her career, Ms. Liu worked withat Anhui branch of PICC, where she served as both division chief of the accident insurance division and deputy division chief of the life insurance division.division (acting chief). A 1982 BA Economics gradate ofgraduate from Anhui University with a bachelor’s degree in economics, Ms. Liu has over 1920 years operational and management experience in the life insurance industry in China.

Liu Jiade has been a vice president of our company since 2003. He is also the2003 and has been a director of China Life Asset Management Company Limited.Limited since June 2004. He also serves on the board of China Life Asset Management (Hong Kong) Company Limited (since renamed China Life Franklin Asset Management Company Limited) since May 2006 and the board of Guangdong Development Bank since December 2006. Immediately prior to taking this role, Mr.joining China Life, Liu had served as a vice director of the Finance Bureau of the Ministry of Finance for three years, and as a departmentdivision chief in the National Debt Finance Bureau of the Ministry of Finance from 1998 to 2000. Other positions Mr. Liu has occupied during his career include vice county chief of the People’s Government of Guan Tao County in Hebei Province, and vice department chief and then department chief in the Commercial Finance Bureau in the Ministry of Finance. During his tenure at the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Liu gained extensive experience in the administration of assets, finance and taxation of insurance companies, banks, trust companies and securities houses.institutions. Mr. Liu graduated from Central Finance College in 1984 (now Central University of Finance and Economics) with a bachelor’s degree in economics.

Zhou Ying has been the chairman of the Communist Party Disciplinary Commission at China Life since November 2006. Prior to that, Mr. Zhou served as chief and designated supervisor (ranked as deputy bureau chief) of the Fifth Division and designated supervisor (ranked as deputy bureau chief) of Beijing State-owned Enterprise Supervisory Committee from May 2004 to November 2006; a party committee member, chief of party disciplinary group, deputy party secretary and chairman of the Communist Party Disciplinary Committee at Hua Xia Bank from January 1998 to May 2004; deputy director of the Central Office for Taiwan Affairs of Beijing Municipal Government from August 1992 to January 1998. From February 1981 to August 1992, he held various positions at China Communist Youth League Beijing Committee, including deputy chief of its propaganda department, deputy office chief, office chief, standing committee member and office chief, standing committee member and chief secretary and office chief, and deputy party secretary. Mr. Zhou graduated from University of Science and Technology of China with a Master’s degree in Business Administration.

Su Hengxuanhas been our assistant to president fromsince 2006. PriorMr. Su also serves on the board of China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited and the board of Insurance Professional College since November and December 2006, respectively. From 2003 to that,2006, Mr. xuSu served as the general manager of our individual life insurance business department from 2003 to 2006.department. From 1998 to 2003, Mr. Su served as both division chief of both of ourthe agency management office and manager of sales department and viceat CLIC’s Henan branch, deputy general manager of ourCLIC’s Henan branch. From 1996 to 1998,branch, and general manager of CLIC’s individual life insurance department. Before that, Mr. Su served as division chief of life insurance division and division chief of sales division of PICC Life, Henan branch.branch between 1996 and 1998. From 1983 to 1996, Mr. Su served as section chief and deputy division chief of life division ofat PICC Henan branch.Branch’s life insurance division. Mr. Su has over 2324 years experience in the life insurance industry and assurance management. Mr. Su studied in Banking School of Henan Province in 1983 and graduated infrom the Insurance and Finance Department of Wuhan University in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in insurance and finance,economics, majoring in insurance.

Miao Fuchun has been a non-executive director of our company since 2006. He is also vice president of CLIC. Mr. Miao served as an executive director and vice president of our company and vice chairman of China Life Asset Management Company Limited from June 2003 to January 2006. Prior to joining China Life, Mr. Miao served as a vice president of CLIC from 1999 to 2003 and director of the Central Finance and Economy Office from 1995 to 1999. Prior to this, Mr. Miao’s other positions include director of the Administrative Office of MOFTEC, now the Ministry of Commerce, and deputy director and department chief of the Administrative Office of the State Council. Mr. Miao enrolled in Renmin

University in 1965 and obtained bachelor’s degree in economics. He obtained master’s degree in Economics in 1981. Mr MiaoSu is a senior economist.

Shi Guoqing has been a non-executive director of our company since 2004. He is also2004 and a vice president of CLIC since August 2003. He is also the chairman of China Life Insurance (Overseas) Co., Ltd., the chairman of Shanghai PICC Tower Limited, and director of China Life-CMG, Beijing Oriental Plaza Co., Ltd., Hong Kong Huiyen Holding Company Limited, China International Trade Center Limited, China International Trade Center Company Limited, China World Trade Investments Limited and Hong Kong Huiyen Holding Company Limited.Shanghai Lujiazui Finance & Trade Zone United Development Co., Ltd., respectively. Before taking these positions, he served as assistant to general manager of CLIC from 1999 to 2003. Between 19961995 and 1999, Mr. Shi acted as deputy general manager of PICC Life. From 1976 to 1995, he acted as a section member, section chief and deputy chief of overseas business divisions of PICC (acting chief), deputy general manager and general manager of China Insurance Co., Ltd., Macao branch, and executive deputy general manager of the international department of PICC. Mr. Shi graduated from Foreign Trade Business College of Beijing in 1976. During hisover 30 years in the insurance industry, he has accumulated extensive experiences both in operation and management of insurance businesses. Mr. Shi is a senior economist.

Long Yongtu has been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2003 and is also the General Secretary of Boao Asian Forum. Before leaving government service in early 2003, Mr. Long served as Vice Minister and Chief Negotiation Representative of MOFTEC, now the Ministry of Commerce, from 1997 onwards. Mr. Long also served as Assistant to the Minister, Director of International Trade and Economic Affairs and as Director of International Communication in the same ministry. Between 1980 and 1991, Mr. Long served as a senior officer at the regional project department of UNDP, Deputy Representative of the UNDP Korean Delegate Office and Deputy Director of China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges. A 1965 graduate of the Foreign Language Department of Guizhou University, Mr. Long studied at the London School of Economics between 1973 and 1974.

Chau Tak Hay has been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2003. In 2002, Mr. Chau was appointed as a special consultant regarding WTO matters to MOFTEC, now the Ministry of Commerce. Prior to this, Mr. Chau occupied a number of important positions in the Hong Kong Government. They include Secretary for Commerce and Industry, Secretary for Broadcasting, Culture and Sport, Director General of Trade and Secretary for Health and Welfare. Mr. Chau graduated from the University of Hong Kong in 1967.

Sun Shuyihas been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2004. Mr. Sun is the executive vice president of China Federation of Industrial Economics, vice chairman of United China Enterprise Association, executive vice president of China Enterprise Association, deputy supervisor of China Brand Promotion Committee and member of the 10th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. From 1993 to 2001, Mr. Sun acted as the deputy chief of General Office, deputy director of the Personnel Department of the Central Steering Committee of Financial Affairs of China, deputy party secretary of Central Government Enterprise Working Committee. From 1988 to 1993, he was the deputy head of the Finance Management Department and the deputy head and head of the Production System Department of the State System Reform Commission. Mr. Sun graduated from the University of Science and Technology of China in 1963 and is a senior engineer and a certified public accountant.

Cai Ranghas been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2004. Mr. Cai is the vice chairman and president of Advanced Technology & Materials Co., Ltd. From 1987 to 2001, he was a division chief, deputy chief economist, assistant to director and deputy director of the Central Iron and Steel Research Institute, where he was assistant engineer from 1982 to 1984. Mr. Cai graduated from the Machinery Faculty of the Northeastern Industry University in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree of engineering. He studied at the of New York State University from 1984 to 1986, and graduated with an MBA degree. He pursued on-the-job studies in the School of Business Administration of Remin

University of China from 1997 to 2001 and obtained a doctoral degree in business administration. From 1997 to 1998, Mr. Cai was a visiting professor of the Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. Mr. Cai is a professor-level senior engineer.

Ma Yongweihas been an independent director of our company since 2006. Mr. Ma has been a member of the Standing Committee of National Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference since 2003. He was the chairman of the CIRC from 1998 to 2002. Mr. Ma possesses more than 37 years’ experience in the banking and insurance industries. From 1996 to 1998, he served as the chairman and president of former China Insurance Group Company. From 1994 to 1996, he served as chairman and president of former People’s Insurance Company of China. From 1982 to 1994, Mr. Ma served as deputy chief of the agricultural credit division of Agricultural Bank of China, Anhui Branch, vice governor of Anhui Branch, and vice governor and governor of Agricultural Bank of China. Mr. Ma graduated from Finance Department of Liaoning Finance and Economic University in 1966. Mr Ma is a Researcher.

Daniel Joseph Kunesh has been the chief actuary of our company since 2004. He joined Tillinghast-Towers Perrin, the actuarial firm, in 1985. From 1993 to 2003, he was responsible for coordinating the firm’s international affairs relating to U.S. GAAP and U.S. securities matters. He also oversaw a consultancy business providing consulting services relating to financial reports, analyses and management systems of life insurance companies. Previously, he acted as the founder and president of Kunesh, Montgomery & Associates from 1984 to 1985 and was a partner of KPMG Peat Marwick from 1973 to 1983, where he participated in audit of over 150 insurance companies and acquired extensive experience in accounting and actuarial fields. Mr. Kunesh served as an associate actuary of Franklin Life Insurance from 1970 to 1973 and an assistant actuary of John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company from 1967 to 1970. Mr. Kunesh was the chairman of the Committee on Life Insurance Financial Reporting of the U.S. Society of Actuaries from 1999 to 2000, and a member of U.S. National Insurance Committee from 1990 to 1992. He co-authored a book entitled “U.S. GAAP for Life Insurance Companies”, which was published in 2000 and later updated in 2005. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Wisconsin in 1967 and a master’s degree in actuarial science from the Northeastern University in 1969.

Zhuang Zuojin has been a non-executive director of our company since June 2006, and a vice president of CLIC since August 2003 and has served as a director2003. Ms. Zhuang also serves on the boards of China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited since June 2004, China Life Asset Management (Hong Kong) Company Limited (since renamed China Life Franklin Asset Management Company Limited) since May 2006, and as a director of China Life-CMG since June 2000. Ms. Zhuang was an assistant to the president of CLIC from March 1999 to August 2003, and a vice general manager of the Zhejiang branch of CLIC, and the general manager of the Hangzhou branch of CLIC from March 1999 to October 2000. Ms. Zhuang was also the president of China Life Insurance Trust and Investment Company from June 1999 to October 2000, and a vice general manager of the Zhejiang branch of PICC Life, and the general manager of the Hangzhou branch of PICC Life from July 1996 to March 1999. From 19851981 to 1996, she acted as viceaccounting staff, deputy chief, and chief and chief accountant of the planning and finance division of the Zhejiang branch of the People’s Insurance Company of China. Ms. Zhuang graduated from the Correspondence College of the Central Party School with major in economics management.management, and studied Probability Statistics (insurance actuarial oriented) at Zhejiang University from September 1999 to January 2000. She is a senior accountant and has worked in insurance companies for over 2526 years with extensive experience in insurance business operation and management.

Long Yongtu has been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2003 and is also the General Secretary of Boao Asian Forum. Before leaving government service in early 2003, Mr. Long served as Vice Minister and Chief Negotiation Representative of MOFTEC, now the Ministry of Commerce, from 1997 onwards. Mr. Long also served as Assistant to the Minister, Director of International Trade and Economic Affairs and as Director of International Communication in the same ministry. Between 1980 and 1991, Mr. Long served as a senior officer at the regional project department of UNDP, Deputy Representative of the UNDP Korean Delegate Office and Deputy Director of China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges. A 1965 graduate of the Foreign Language Department of Guizhou University, Mr. Long studied at the London School of Economics between 1973 and 1974.

Sun Shuyi has been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2004. Mr. Sun is also the executive vice president of China Federation of Industrial Economics, vice chairman of United China Enterprise Association, executive vice president of China Enterprise Association, deputy supervisor of China Brand Promotion Committee and member of the 10th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. From 1993 to 2001, Mr. Sun acted as the deputy chief of General Office, deputy director of the Personnel Department of the Central Steering Committee of Financial Affairs of China, deputy party secretary of Central Government Enterprise Working Committee. From 1988 to 1993, he was the deputy head of the Finance Management Department and the deputy head and head of the Production System Department of the State System Reform Commission. Mr. Sun graduated from the University of Science and Technology of China in 1963 and is a senior engineer and a certified public accountant.

Ma Yongweihas been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2006. Mr. Ma has been a member of the Standing Committee of National Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference since 2003. He was the chairman of the CIRC from 1998 to 2002. Mr. Ma possesses more than 37 years’ experience in the banking and insurance industries. From 1996 to 1998, he served as the chairman and president of former China Insurance Group Company. From 1994 to 1996, he served as chairman and president of former PICC. From 1982 to 1994, Mr. Ma served as deputy chief of the agricultural credit division of Agricultural Bank of China, Anhui Branch, vice governor of Anhui Branch, and vice governor and governor of Agricultural Bank of China. Mr. Ma graduated from Finance Department of Liaoning Finance and Economic University in 1966. Mr Ma is a Researcher.

Chau Tak Hay has been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2003. Prior to this, Mr. Chau occupied a number of important positions in the Hong Kong Government. They include Secretary for Commerce and Industry, Secretary for Broadcasting, Culture and Sport, Director General of Trade and Secretary for Health and Welfare. Mr. Chau graduated from the University of Hong Kong in 1967.

Cai Rang has been an independent non-executive director of our company since 2004. Mr. Cai is the party secretary and deputy general manager of China Steel Research Technology Group, and vice chairman of Advanced Technology & Materials Co., Ltd. From 1998 to 2007, he was the president of Advanced Technology of Materials Co., Ltd. From 1987 to 2001, he was a division chief, deputy chief economist, assistant to director and deputy director of the Central Iron and Steel Research Institute. Mr. Cai graduated from the Machinery Faculty of the Northeastern Industry University in 1982 with a bachelor’s degree of engineering. He studied at the New York State University from 1984 to 1986, and graduated with an MBA degree. He pursued on-the-job studies at the School of Business Administration of Remin University of China from 1997 to 2001 and obtained a doctorate degree in business administration. From 1997 to 1998, Mr. Cai was a visiting professor at the Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. Mr. Cai is a professor-level senior engineer and was awarded special allowance by the State Council.

Ngai Wai Funghas been an independent non-executive director of our company since December 29, 2006. He is the associate director and head of listing services of KCS Limited (formally the commercial division of KPMG and GT), vice president of the Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries and the chairman of its China Affairs Committee. He was the company secretary and head of the Secretariat of ICBC (Asia) in 2005, executive director of Top Orient Capital (Asia) Ltd. between 2003 and 2005, the company secretary and department manager of China Unicom Limited between 2001 and 2003, executive director, company secretary and chief financial officer of Oriental Union Holding Limited between 1999 and 2001. Mr. Ngai graduated from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2002 with a master’s degree in corporate finance. He graduated from Andrews University of Michigan in 1992 with a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Currently, he is studying at Shanghai University of Finance and Economics for a doctorate degree. Mr. Ngai has over 18 years of senior management experience, most of which is in the areas of finance, accounting, internal control and regulatory compliance for issuers including major H shares and red chip companies.

Liu Lefei has been our chief investment officer since July 2006 and has served as general manager of our investment management department since August 2004. Mr. Liu has been a director of Guangdong Development Bank since December 2006. He served as both the general manager of Investment Management Department of China Galaxy Securities Co., Ltd. and general manager of Beijing Galaxy Investment Consulting Company between 2003 and 2004. From 1998 to 2003, Mr. Liu served as both deputy

general manager of Zhongye’an Shunda Industrial Corporation under the Ministry of Metallurgical Industry and executive director of Capital Securities Company. From 1995 to 1998, Mr. Liu worked for the general department of the Ministry of Finance. Mr. Liu was a member of the 9th and 10th of All China Youth Federation, and served as a member of Xinhua FTSE Index Committee and a member of Reuters China Pension Index Advisory Committee. Mr. Liu graduated from Renmin University of China with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1995; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in 1998; and China Europe International Business School in 2006 with a master’s degree in business administration majoring in Finance.

Liu Anlin has been our chief information technology officer since July 2006. Mr. Liu was in charge of our IT department and then served as its general manager between November 2002 and July 2006. Mr. Liu served as the deputy general manager of CLIC’s human resources department from November 2001 to November 2002. Prior to that, he had served as deputy division chief (acting chief) of the IT division and assistant to general manager of CLIC’s Gansu branch between April 1999 and November 2001; assistant to division chief and deputy division chief (acting chief) of the IT division at PICC Life’s Gansu branch between June 1996 and April 1999; manager of Computer Center Technology Department of The People’s Insurance Company of China, Gansu branch and manager of the Technology Development Department of Gansu ZhongBao Electronic Co., Ltd. between January 1995 and June 1996. Mr. Liu graduated from Lanzhou University of China in 1985 with a bachelor’s degree in science majored in computer mathematics. He studied at University of Sunderland in the United Kingdom from 1992 to 1993. He has obtained a master’s degree in business administration from Tsinghua University in 2006, and is studying for a doctorate degree in risk management at Beijing Normal University. Mr. Liu is a senior economist.

Shiu Wai Chung has been our chief actuary since March 2007. Ms. Shiu had served as senior deputy president and chief actuary at several subsidiaries of Prudential Financial, Inc. and has accumulated extensive working experience in insurance companies, and also held positions of president and senior officer at many actuary societies. Her professional qualifications include, among others, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS), Chartered Financial Consultant (CHFC), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Member of the American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA), and Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA). Ms. Shiu obtained a bachelor’s degree from National Chengchi University in Taiwan and a master’s degree from University of Iowa, U.S.

Board of Supervisors

Supervisors

The following table sets forth information regarding our current supervisors.

 

Name

  Age  

Position

Xia Zhihua

  5152  Chairperson of Board of Supervisors

Wu Weimin

  5456  Supervisor

Jia YuzengQing Ge

  4356  Employee Representative Supervisor

Ren HongbinYang Hong

  4340  Outside supervisorEmployee Representative Supervisor

Tian Hui

  5455  Outside supervisor

Xia Zhihua has been the chairperson of our supervisorssupervisory committee since March 2006. FromAs the representative of the PRC State Council, Ms. Xia supervised CLIC, and China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation between August 2003 and December 2005, China Great Wall Asset Management Corporation between November 2001 and July 2003, and China Economic Development Trust & Investment Corporation between July 2000 to December 2005, Ms. Xia worked in the National Key Financial Enterprises Supervisory Institution.and November 2001. She served as deputy chief of the Supervisory

Committee, deputy chief of Administration Office, chief of supervisory committee and head of Administration Office respectively. Ms. Xia supervised CLIC, our controlling shareholder,joined the Ministry of Finance in December 1984, and China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation between August 2003 and December 2005. Between July 2000 and July 2003, Ms. Xia supervised China Great Wall Asset Management Corporation and China Economic Development Trust & Investment Corporation. She waspositions she held in this ministry include the assistant inspector of the Treasury Department of Ministry of Finance from June 2000 to July 2000. From June 1997 to June 2000, Ms. Xia served as2000; the deputy department chief of Treasury Bond Finance Department of Ministry of Finance. From November 1991from July 1998 to June 2000; the deputy department chief of Treasury Bond Department from July 1997 Ms. Xia servedto June 1998; a staff member of the Training and Administrative Finance Department, section chief, deputy division chief and division chief in the following positions: deputy chief, division chief of Domestic Debt Division and Deputy Department Chief of Debt Management Department of Ministry of Finance.from December 1984 to June 1997. Ms. Xia graduated from Economics Department of Xiamen University and received a BAbachelor’s degree in Politicspolitics and Economicseconomics and a MAmaster’s degree in World Economics.world economics.

Wu Weimin has been a supervisor of our company since 2003. Mr. Wu serves as the general manager of the compliance department of our company. Prior to assuming this role, Mr. Wu spent five years with CLIChad served as deputy secretary of the disciplinary committee, director of the supervision office, deputy general manager of the organization department and vice general manager of the personnel education department.department of CLIC since 1998. Earlier in his career, Mr. Wu served as vice general manager of the human resources department and division chief of the compensation division of PICC Group between 1995 and 1998. Before entering the insurance industry, Mr. Wu held a position with the labor wages bureau of the Ministry of Communications. In 2000, he studied insurance at the China Insurance Management Staff Institute.

Jia YuzengQing Ge has been a supervisor of our company since 2004. HeJune 2006 and has been both the general manager of the working department and the deputy Party Secretarydirector of the Trade Union of our company since 2004. DuringSeptember 2005. Between September 2003 and September 2005, Mr. Qing was the period from 1988deputy general manager of our Beijing branch. From 1999 to 2004,September 2003, he acted as supervisor atwas the general manager of Inner Mongolia branch and deputy division chief level, supervisor at division chief levelgeneral manager of Beijing branch of CLIC. From July 1996 to April 1999, he was the general manager of Inner Mongolia branch of PICC Life. From 1993 to 1996, he was the deputy general manager and later as supervisory commissioner at deputy director levelparty secretary of the MinistryThe People’s Insurance Company of Supervision of China.China, Inner Mongolia branch. Mr. Jia previously worked for Beijing No. 2 Foods Corporation from 1980 to 1988. HeQing graduated from Beijing NormalSouth China University in 1990 and obtainedof Technology with undergraduate education qualification. He is a master’s degree in business administration from Hong Kong Open University in 2003.senior economist.

Ren HongbinYang Honghas been a supervisor of our company since 2004. Mr. RenOctober 2006 and has beenacted as general manager of our Customer Service Department since October 2006. From October 1998 to October 2006, Ms. Yang held positions in our Business Management Department including a staff member of Deed Division, head and deputy division chief of Customer Service Division, assistant to general manager and division chief of Customer Service Division, assistant to general manager and deputy general manager. From December 1995 to October 1998, Ms. Yang served as a staff member of the presidentEquipment Division and Network Division of Information Technology Department of PICC Life. Between August 1989 and December 1995, Ms. Yang worked for the Development Division of Computer Department of The People’s Insurance Company of China National Machinery Industry Corporation and chairmanthe Second Marketing Department of China CAMC Engineering Co., Ltd. since 2001. Mr. Ren has been working in the management of foreign engineering affairs, import and export, and engineering industry for over 20 years. He acted in the capacity as deputy vice president, president of China Engineering and Agricultural Machinery Import and ExportPICC Electronics Company president and Party Secretary of China Machinery Industrial Group. Other positions he also served as included the Standing Committee Member of United National Chinese Youth Association, Deputy Chairman of Youth League in China Enterprise, Executive Committee Member of Young Chinese Entrepreneur Association, Vice President of China Machinery and Industrial Association, and Foreign Contract Association. China Engineering and Agricultural Machinery Import and Export Company is a large scale state-owned enterprise involved in engineering contracting, foreign trade and high-tech development. In July 1986, Mr. RenLimited. Ms. Yang graduated from Beijingthe Computer Department of Jilin University of Agricultural Engineering aswith a professor-grade seniorbachelor degree.

engineer and was granted special allowance from the government and a part-time Professor of the University of Chinese Agriculture (tutor of master degree candidates).

Tian Hui has been a supervisor of our company since 2004 andJune 2004. Mr. Tian has been the director and deputyparty secretary of the Communist Party of China CoalSinocoal International Engineering Design & Research Institute since 2000.February 2007, and served as the chairman of Beijing Huayue Engineering Company Limited since June 2006. Between 2000 and 2006, Mr. Tian had been the director and deputy party secretary of Sinocoal International Engineering Design & Research Institute and the chairman of Beijing Huayue Engineering Company Limited. From 1998 to 2000, he was the deputy director, director and deputy party secretary of the Communist Party of the Beijing Coal Design Institute. From 1982 to 1998, Mr. Tian was the deputy department head, department head and deputy director of Shenyang Design Institute of the Ministry of Coal Industry. Mr. Tian graduated from Fuxin Minery School with a bachelor’s degree and from China University of Mining & Technology (Beijing) with a doctor’sdoctorate degree. Mr. Tian is a senior engineer.engineer and is qualified as Master of Project Survey & Design in China, and was awarded special allowance by the State Council.

COMPENSATION

Compensation of Directors, Supervisors and Officers

Our directors, supervisors and executive officers receive compensation in the form of salaries, bonuses, housing allowances and other benefits-in-kind, including our contribution to the pension plan on behalf of our directors, supervisors and executive officers. As required by PRC regulations, we participate in various defined contribution retirement plans organized by provincial and municipal governments for our employees, including employees who are directors, supervisors and management personnel.executive officers.

The following table sets forth the amounts of compensations payable to each of our directors and supervisors for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005.2006.

 

Name

  Salaries/
Fees
  Discretionary
Bonus
  

Inducement

Fees

  Other
Benefits
  

Employer’s
Contribution

To

Pension
Scheme

  Compensation
for loss of
office as
director
  Total  Salaries/
Fees
  

Discretionary

Bonus

  

Inducement

Fees

  

Other

Benefits

  

Employer’s

Contribution

To Pension

Scheme

  

Compensation

for loss of

office as

director

  Total
  In RMB  In RMB

Yang Chao(1)

  225,000  225,000  —    —    7,087  —    457,087  590,000  801,500  —    —    19,016  —    1,410,516

Miao Fuchun

  533,500  436,500  —    —    16,363  —    986,363

Wu Yan

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Wu Yan(1)

  540,833  324,500  —    —    17,598  —    882,931

Wan Feng(2)

  312,813  583,330  —    —    10,663  —    906,806

Shi Guoqing

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    —    — ��  —    —  

Zhuang Zuojin

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Long Yongtu

  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000

Sun Shuyi

  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000

Ma Yongwei(3)

  183,333  —    —    —    —    —    183,333

Chau Tak Hay

  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000

Sun Shuyi

  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000

Cai Rang

  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000  220,000  —    —    —    —    —    220,000

Wang Xianzhang(2)

  315,000  315,000  —    —    9,276  —    639,276

Fan Yingjun(2)

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Liu Yingqi

  489,500  400,500  —    —    16,363  N/A  906,363

Ngai Wai Fung(4)

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Miao Fuchun(5)

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Liu Yingqi(6)

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Xia Zhihua(7)

  407,917  200,250  —    —    16,181  —    624,348

Wu Weimin

  292,500  157,500  —    —    16,363  N/A  466,363  312,000  469,050  —    —    19,016  —    800,066

Zhou Xinping(3)

  73,125  39,375  —    —    3,607  N/A  116,107

Jia Yuzeng(4)

  219,375  118,125  —    —    12,757  N/A  350,257

Ren Hongbin

  100,000  —    —    —    —    N/A  100,000

Jia Yuzeng(8)

  143,000  202,263  —    —    8,353  —    353,616

Qing Ge(9)

  169,000  266,328  —    —    10,663  —    445,991

Yang Hong(10)

  67,979  91,415  —    —    4,101  —    163,495

Ren Hongbin(11)

  —    —    —    —    —    —    —  

Tian Hui

  100,000  —    —    —    —    N/A  100,000  —    —    —    100,000  —    —    100,000
                                         

Total

  3,228,000  1,692,000  —    —    81,816  —    5,001,816  3,606,875  2,938,636  —    100,000  105,591  —    6,751,102
                                          

(1)appointedPayment since February 1, 2006 and resigned as the executive director on July 29, 2005January 26, 2007.

(2)resignedAppointed on July 29, 2005June 16, 2006.
(3)Appointed on March 16, 2006.
(4)Appointed on December 29,2006.
(5)Resigned on June 16, 2006.
(6)Resigned on January 5, 2006.
(7)Appointed on March 16, 2006.

(3)(8)resignedResigned on April 1, 2005June 15, 2006.

(4)(9)appointedAppointed on April 1, 2005June 15, 2006.
(10)Appointed on October 16, 2006.
(11)Resigned on June 16, 2006.

The aggregate fees or compensation paid to all of our executive officers other than those disclosed in the table above, including vice presidents and assistant to president who are not our directors and our chief investment officer, chief information technology officer, chief actuary (Mr. Daniel Joseph Kunesh as of December 31, 2006) and chairman of communist party disciplinary commission, for the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, was RMB 4,648,5008,528,579 (US$576,008)1,092,833), among which RMB 65,50093,562 (US$8,116)11,989) was contributed to various defined contribution retirement plans as described above.

The aggregate amount of compensation we paid to our five highest paid individual employees during the year ended December 31, 20052006 was approximately RMB 4,621,000 (US$572,600).7,970,000 US$1,021,258.

Senior Management Compensation System

In order to provide better incentives for our senior management and to enhance further the alignment between our senior management’s performance and our shareholders’ value, our shareholders, upon the recommendation of our board of directors, have adopted a compensation system for our senior management, which was designed with the assistance of an independent compensation consulting firm. The system is designed to link our senior management’s financial interests with our results of operations and the performance of our shares. Under this system, our senior management’s compensation will consist of three components:

 

basic salaries and other fixed allowances;

 

short-term incentive compensation (annual performance bonuses); and

 

long-term incentive compensation in the form of stock appreciation rights, which generally entitle recipients to receive cash payments when the market price of our H shares rises above the exercise price granted in the stock appreciation rights.

The variable components in our senior management’s compensation, which consist of performance bonuses and stock appreciation rights, account for 30% to 65% of their total potential compensation. Generally, the more direct impact the recipient’s responsibilities have on our final operating results, the larger the variable portion of the recipient’s compensation package will be.

The annual performance bonuses are closely linked with our annual results of operations and the individual performance of our senior management. We have established a complete performance management system, under which key performance indicators are assigned to each position. For example, the key performance indicators assigned to our chief actuary position include the ratio of profitable products to all insurance products, as well as the profit ratio of new insurance products. The key performance indicators assigned to the general manager of our human resources department include the retention rate of specified key positions, the degree of satisfaction of other departments in the general manager’s performance and the duration of vacancies of our senior management.

The issuance of stock appreciation rights does not involve any issuance of new shares, nor does it have a dilutive effect on our shareholders. Stock appreciation rights may be grantedawarded to approximately 200the senior management and other outstanding personnel, including members of the board of directors and the board of supervisors (but excluding independent non-executive directors and independent supervisors), the president, vice presidents, heads of keythe departments and divisions in our headquarters, general managers and

deputy general managers of our principal and municipal branches, senior professionals and technicians of key positions, such as the chief actuary, as well as exclusive agents with outstanding performance. Our

board of directors will determine the recipients of stock appreciation rights according to internal procedures.

Stock appreciation rights will be grantedawarded in units, with each unit representing one H share. Among the senior management to whom stock appreciation rights are granted,awarded, the ratio between the highest and the lowest grantsawards will in general not exceed 18:1, with the number of units of the highest grantaward not exceeding 10% of the total units grantedawarded to all participants. The total number of stock appreciation rights that have been grantedawarded but not exercised or cancelled and the total number of stock appreciation rights that have been exercised may not exceed 0.5% of our issued share capital, including both domesticA shares and H shares. During any fiscal year, the number of stock appreciation rights grantedawarded may not exceed 0.2% of our issued share capital.

According to this plan, all stock appreciation rights will have an exercise period of five years and will not be exercisable before the fourth anniversary of the date of grantaward unless specified performancemarket or other conditions have been met. Under these performancemarket conditions, the exercise right may be accelerated, on a cumulative basis, if the share price rises by the percentages and within the time periods indicated below. Upon an employee’s completion of four years of continuous service after the grant date of award, all of the stock appreciation rights will be exercisable, regardless of the extent, if any, to which the performance criteria set forth below have been satisfied.

 

A total of one-third of the stock appreciation rights may be exercised provided that within 6 to 18 months from the date of grant,award, the share price is at least 10% higher than the exercise price for a period of 20 consecutive trading days;

 

If such portion of the stock appreciation rights have not already become exercisable during the period between 6 and 18 months from the grantaward date, a total of one-third of the stock appreciation rights may be exercised provided that within 18 to 30 months from the date of grant,award, the share price is 10% to 20% higher than the exercise price for a period of 20 consecutive trading days. Additionally, a total of two-thirds of the stock appreciation rights (that is, inclusive of any portion of the stock appreciation rights that have been exercisable by achieving the lower stock thresholds in the relevant period) may be exercised if, during the period from 18 to 30 months from the date of grant,award, the share price is more than 20% higher than the exercise price for a period of 20 consecutive trading days; and

 

If such portion of the stock appreciation rights have not already become exercisable during the period between 6 and 30 months from the grantaward date, a total of one-third of the stock appreciation rights may be exercised provided that after 30 months from the date of grant,award, the share price is 10% to 20% higher than the exercise price for a period of 20 consecutive trading days and a total of two-thirds of the stock appreciation rights may be exercised if the share price is more than 20% higher during such period. Additionally, all of the stock appreciation rights may be exercised if the share price is more than 30% higher for a period of 20 consecutive trading days at any time after 30 months from the grantaward date.

The exercise price of stock appreciation rights will be the average closing price of the shares in the five trading days prior to the date of the grant.award. Upon exercise of the stock appreciation rights, the exercising participant will receive payment in Renminbi, subject to any withholding tax, equal to the number of stock appreciation rights exercised times the difference between the exercise price and market price of the H shares at the time of exercise.

As disclosed in our annual report under the rules of Hong Kong Stock Exchange for the fiscal year of 2004 and submitted to the SEC on Form 6-K on May 5, 2005, subject to the approval by our board of directors, we planned to grantaward stock appreciation rights to our senior management personnel in 2005. Accordingly, our board of directors approved, on January 5, 2006, an initial grantaward of stock appreciation rights of 4,053,015 units of stock appreciation rights, each representing 1one H share, to our senior management personnel, including our chairman of the board of directors, executive directors, non-executive directors (excluding independent non-executive directors), chairman of the board of supervisors, internal supervisors, president, vice presidents, secretary to the board of directors, appointed actuary and appointed legal officer as required by the CIRC, head of key departments in our headquarters and heads of our branches at the provincial level. The grantaward covered 68 personnel existing at July 1, 2005, and the exercise price of the rights was the average closing price of our H shares in the five trading days prior to July 1, 2005.

On January 5, 2006, our board of directors approved in principle our second award plan of stock appreciation rights. On August 21, 2006, our board of directors further approved the second award plan of stock appreciation rights consisting of approximately 53,220,000 units awarded to the senior management and outstanding personnel, including the personnel covered under our initial award plan, deputy managers and assistants to the managers of the departments in our headquarters, managers and certain qualified deputy managers of the divisions in our headquarters, deputy managers and equivalent management personnel of our branches at the provincial level, assistants to the managers, outstanding management personnel of our branches at the municipal level and outstanding exclusive agents. The exercise price of the rights was the average closing price of our H shares in the five trading days prior to January 1, 2006.

On December 29, 2006, our board of directors also approved in principle our second grantingthird award plan of stock appreciation rights, and the exercise price of the rights will beis the average closing price of our shares in the five trading days prior to January 1, 2006.2007.

The table below sets forth the numbers of stock appreciation rights grantedawarded to members of our senior management under grantingaward plan described above.

 

Name

  

Number of stockStock
Appreciation
Rights Awarded

Yang Chao

appreciation Rights

Granted

990,000

Yang ChaoWu Yan(1)(1)

  289,467900,000

Miao FuchunWan Feng

  207,987

Wu Yan

107,210808,000

Shi Guoqing

  107,210668,000

Wang Xianzhang(2)Zhuang Zuojin

  289,467668,000

Liu YingqiXia Zhihua

  190,834742,000

Wu Weimin

  36,183282,000

Jia Yuzeng(3)Qing Ge

  36,183282,000

Yang Hong

174,000

Other executive officers

  763,3363,448,000
   

Total

  2,027,8778,962,000
   

(1)appointedresigned as the president on July 29, 2005January 31, 2007

(2)resigned on July 29, 2005

(3)appointed on April 1, 2005

BOARD PRACTICES

General

Our board of directors consists of nineten members. Our directors are elected to serve a term of three years, which is renewable upon re-election. The PRC company law requires a joint stock company with limited liability to establish a board of supervisors. Our board of supervisors is responsible for monitoring our financial matters and supervising the actions of our board of directors and our management personnel. Our board of supervisors consists of five members. One memberOne-third of our board of supervisors must be a representative elected by our employees. The remaining members must be elected by our shareholders in a general meeting. One member of our board of supervisors is designated as the chairman. Members of our board of supervisors may not serve as director or member of senior management. The term of office for our supervisors is three years, which is renewable upon re-election.

Our directors are elected at meetings of our shareholders, and, unless they resign at an earlier date, are deceased or removed, will serve three-year terms. The term of our current board of directors started in June 2006 and will expire this year. Messers Yang Chao, Wu Yan, Shi Guoqing, Long Yongtu, Chau Tak Hay, Sun Shuyi, Cai Yang and Ma Yongwei have been proposed to be re-elected, and Mr. Wan Feng and Ms. Zhuang Zuojin have been nominated as new directors to be elected, at the annual shareholders meeting to be held onin June 16, 2006.2009. Our directors are not currently entitled to severance benefits other than benefits provided by law upon termination of employment. In the event China Life is acquired, including an acquisition of control by another person, and a director leaves employment or retires following the acquisition, the director may receive severance and other payments upon approval by the shareholders in general meeting.

We have identified various board members as being “independent”, in accordance with Hong Kong laws and regulations. These requirements vary in certain respects from independence requirements under U.S. law. The members of our audit committee are independent as construed by the rules of New York Stock Exchange applicable to us.

Board Committees

We have established standing audit, management trainingnomination and remuneration, risk management and strategic committees.

The primary duties of the audit committee are to review and supervise the financial reporting process and our internal control systems. Our audit committee is currently comprised of Sun Shuyi, Chau Tak Hay, and Cai Rang.

The primary duties of the management training and remuneration committee are to formulate the training and compensation policies for our senior management and to manage our senior management compensation system. Our management training and remuneration committee is currently comprised of Cai Rang Sun Shuyi, Ma Yongwei, Wu Yan and Miao Fuchun. In accordance with new corporate governance rules issued by the CIRC, the board has approved the change in the management training and remuneration committee to a nomination and remuneration committee, subject to the approval by the annual general shareholders’ meeting to be held on June 16, 2006 of relevant revisions to our articles of association in this respect. Ngai Wai Fung.

The primary duties of the nomination and remuneration committee will beare to review the structure of the board of directors, review and recommend the nominationappointment of directors and senior officers,management, as well as to formulate the training and compensation policies for our senior management and to manage our senior management compensation system. Our nomination and remuneration committee is currently comprised of Cai Rang, Sun Shuyi, and Shi Guoqing.

The primary duties of the risk management committee are to assist the management in managing our internal and external risks. Our risk management committee is currently comprised of Wu Yan, Chau Tak HayMa Yongwei, Wan Feng and Cai Rang.Zhuang Zuojin.

The primary duties of the strategic committee are to formulate our overall development plans and investment decision-making procedures. Our strategic committee is currently comprised of Long Yongtu, Miao FuchunWan Feng and Shi Guoqing.

EMPLOYEES

As of December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2005,2006, we had approximately 73,000, 75,000, 76,000 and 76,00077,000 employees, respectively. The following table sets forth the number of our employees by their functions as of December 31, 2005.2006.

 

  As of December 31   As of December 31 
  2003 2004 2005   2004 2005 2006 
  Number of
employees
  

% of

total

 Number of
employees
  

% of

total

 Number of
employees
  

% of

total

   

Number

of
employees

  

%

of

total

 

Number

of
employees

  

%

of

total

 Number
of
employees
  

%

of

total

 

Management and administrative staff

  8,119  11.2% 8,731  11.57% 9,303  12.28%  8,731  11.57% 9,303  12.28% 11,643  15.06%

Financial and auditing staff

  7,524  10.3% 5,218  6.92% 5,335  7.05%  5,218  6.92% 5,335  7.05% 5,501  7.11%

Sales and marketing staff(1)

  31,495  43.2% 33,110  43.89% 33,674  44.47%  33,110  43.89% 33,674  44.47% 32,373  41.87%

Underwriters, claim specialists and customer service staff

  18,991  26.1% 16,035  21.6% 15,950  21.06%  16,035  21.6% 15,950  21.06% 17,108  22.13%

Other professional and technical staff(2)

  3,260  4.5% 1,676  2.22% 1,779  2.35%  1,676  2.22% 1,779  2.35% 1,905  2.46%

Other

  3,431  4.7% 10,667  14.14% 9,687  12.79%  10,667  14.14% 9,687  12.79% 8,788  11.37%
                                      

Total

  72,900  100% 75,437  100% 75,728  100%  75,437  100% 75,728  100% 77,318  100%
                                      

(1)Includes direct sales representatives.

(2)Includes actuaries, product development personnel, investment management personnel and information technology specialists.

As of December 31, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2005,2006, we had approximately 655,000, 668,000, 640,000 and 640,000650,000 exclusive agents, respectively. The decreaseincrease in number of our exclusive agents from 20042005 to 20052006 was primarily due to the strengthened performance review conducted by us in 2005, as a result of which a number of exclusive agents that had comparatively lower productivity left. In addition, CIRC agencies in certain provinces have began requiring, from 2005, all exclusive agents to hold CIRC qualification certificates to conduct business, which lead to the departure of someimprovement of our agents.hiring methods and ability.

None of our employees is subject to collective bargaining agreements governing employment with us. We believe that our employee relations are satisfactory.

SHARE OWNERSHIP

As of the date of this annual report, except for our independent director, Mr. Ngai Wai Fung, who owns 2,000 H shares, none of our directors, supervisors or senior managers is a legal or beneficial owner of any shares of our share capital.

 

ITEM 7.MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS.

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

The table sets forth information regarding the ownership of our share capital as of May 12, 2006April 30, 2007 by all persons who are known to us to be the beneficial owners of 5% or more of each class of our share capital.

 

Title of Class

  

Identity of Person or Group

  Amount Owned  Percentage
of Class
 Percentage of
Total Share
Capital
   

Identity of Person or Group

  Amount Owned Percentage
of Class
 Percentage of
Total Share
Capital
 

Domestic shares

  CLIC  19,323,530,000  100% 72.2%

A shares

  CLIC  19,323,530,000(L) 92.80% 68.37%

H shares

  J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.(1)  499,887,921(L) 6.72% 1.77%
    451,811,295(S) 6.07% 1.60%
    197,191,460(P) 2.65% 0.70%

H shares

  Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft(2)  594,520,000(L) 7.99% 2.10%
    550,903,407(S) 7.40% 1.95%

H shares

  Societe Generale(3)  416,417,741(L) 5.60% 1.47%
    597,370,338(S) 8.03% 2.11%

H shares

  KBC Group N.V.(4)  446,581,593(L) 6.00% 1.58%
    349,109,018(S) 4.69% 1.24%

H shares

  J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. (1)  750,971,466  10.1% 2.8%  FMR Corp.(5)  445,852,713  5.99% 1.58%

H shares

  Credit Suisse Group(2)  443,077,540  6.0% 1.7%  Lee Shau Kee(6)  428,358,620(L) 5.76% 1.52%

H shares

  Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft(3)  375,396,332  5.0% 1.4%  Leeworld (Cayman) Limited(6)  428,358,620(L) 5.76% 1.52%

H shares

  Lee Shau Kee(4)  428,358,620  5.8% 1.6%  Leesons (Cayman) Limited(6)  428,358,620(L) 5.76% 1.52%

H shares

  Leeworld (Cayman) Limited(4)  428,358,620  5.8% 1.6%  Lee Financial (Cayman) Limited(6)  428,358,620(L) 5.76% 1.52%

H shares

  Leesons (Cayman) Limited(4)  428,358,620  5.8% 1.6%  Shau Kee Financial Enterprises Limited(6)  428,358,620(L) 5.76% 1.52%

H shares

  Lee Financial (Cayman) Limited(4)  428,358,620  5.8% 1.6%  Richbo Investment Limited(6)  428,358,620(L) 5.76% 1.52%

H shares

  Shau Kee Financial Enterprises Limited(4)  428,358,620  5.8% 1.6%

H shares

  Richbo Investment Limited(4)  428,358,620  5.8% 1.6%


The letter “L” denotes a long position. The letter “S” denotes a short position. The letter “P” denotes interest in a lending pool.

(1)JPMorgan Chase & Co. was interested in a total of 499,887,921 H shares in accordance with the provisions of Part XV, SFO. Of these shares, 348,044,169 H shares, 18,038,512 H shares, 27,613,065 H shares, 11,553,000 H shares, 265,949,000 H shares, 6,700,000 H shares, 519,000 H shares, 2,901,000 H shares, 58,261,700 H shares and 11,392,000 H shares are respectively held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., J.P. Morgan Investment Management Inc., JPMorgan Asset Management (UK) Limited, JF Asset Management (Singapore) Limited Co Reg #:197601586K, JF Asset Management Limited, JF International Management Inc., JPMorgan Asset Management (Canada) Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities Ltd., J.P. Morgan Whitefriars Inc. and JPMorgan Asset Management (Japan) Limited allwere interested in 198,194,460 H shares, 8,589,612 H shares, 8,752,409 H shares, 8,458,000 H shares, 170,972,000 H shares, 1,141,000 H shares, 352,000 H shares, 11,546,000 H shares, 82,563,440 H shares and 9,319,000 H shares respectively. All of whichthese entities are either controlled or indirectly controlled subsidiaries of JPMorgan Chase & Co.

 

Included in the 499,887,921 H shares are 197,191,460 H shares (2.65%) which are held in the “lending pool”, as defined under Section 5(4) of the Securities and Futures (Disclosure of Interests — Securities Borrowing and Lending) Rules.

In addition, JPMorgan Chase & Co. held by way of attribution a “short position” as defined under Part XV, SFO in 451,811,295 H shares (6.07%).

(2)Credit Suisse GroupDeutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft was interested in a total of 443,077,540594,520,000 H shares in accordance with the provisions of Part XV, SFO (Cap. 571 of Laws of Hong Kong).SFO. Of these shares, Credit SuisseDeutsche Investment Management Americas Inc., Deutsche Asset Management (Asia) Limited, Deutsche Asset Management (Japan) Limited, Deutsche Asset Management International GmbH, Deutsche Asset Management Investmentgesellschaft mbH, DWS Investment GmbH, DWS Investment S.A. Luxemburg, Deutsche Bank AG Frankfurt, Deutsche Vermogensbildungsgesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, Deutsche Bank (Suisse) S.A., Deutsche Bank AG Singapore Branch and Deutsche Bank Securities (USA) LLC, Credit Suisse International, Credit Suisse (Hong Kong) Limited, Credit Suisse, Credit Suisse New York Branch. Credit Suisse Securities (Europe) Limited and Credit Suisse (Asset Management)Inc. were interested in 70,474,0001,688,000 H shares, 112,867,94418,571,000 H shares, 232,191,4111,000,000 H shares, 23,158,7701,070,000 H shares, 4,173,415194,000 H shares, 200,00010,835,000 H shares, 20,000,000 H shares, 25,500 H shares, 557,000 H shares, 55,000 H shares, 180,000 H shares and 12,0003,990 H shares respectively. All of these entities are either controlled or indirectly controlled subsidiaries of Credit Suisse Group.Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft.

Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft held by way of attribution a “short position” as defined under Part XV, SFO in 550,903,407 H shares (7.40%).

 

(3)

Of these shares, 2,278,000Societe Generale was interested in a total of 416,417,741 H shares 9,056,000in long position and 597,370,338 H shares 2,804,000 H shares, 800,000 H shares, 121,000,000 H shares, 1,770,900 H shares, 36,878,000 H shares, 9,500,000 H shares are respectively held by Deutsche Investment Management Americas Inc., Deutsche Asset Management (Asia) Limited, Deutsche Asset Management International

GmbH, DWS (Austria) Investmentgesellschaft mbH, DWS Investment GmbH, Deutsche Vermogensbildungsgesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung, DWS Investment S.A., Luxemburg, DWS Investments Italy SGR S.p.A., allin short position in accordance with the provisions of which are either controlled or indirectly controlled subsidiaries of Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft.

Part XV, SFO

 

(4)KBC Group N.V. was interested in a total of 446,581,593 H shares in long position and 349,109,018 H shares in short position in accordance with the provisions of Part XV, SFO. These H share interests were held by KBC Investments Hong Kong Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of KBC Bank N.V. KBC Group N.V. is the indirect controlling shareholder of KBC Bank N.V.

(5)Based solely on information contained in a Schedule 13G filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 14, 2007 by FMR Corp. (“FMR”) and Edward C. Johnson III. Fidelity Management & Research Company (“Fidelity”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of FMR Corp. and an investment adviser registered under Section 203 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, is the beneficial owner of 207,832,713 H shares as a result of acting as investment adviser to various investment companies registered under Section 8 of the Investment Company Act of 1940. Edward C. Johnson III and FMR Corp., through its control of Fidelity and the funds, each has sole power to dispose of the 207,832,713 H shares owned by the funds. Members of the family of Edward C. Johnson III, Chairman of FMR Corp., are the predominant owners, directly or through trusts, of Series B shares of common stock of FMR Corp., representing 49% of the voting power of FMR Corp. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders’ voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Accordingly, through their ownership of voting common stock and the execution of the shareholders’ voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the Investment Company Act of 1940, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR Corp. Neither FMR Corp. nor Edward C. Johnson 3d, Chairman of FMR Corp., has the sole power to vote or direct the voting of the shares owned directly by the Fidelity Funds, which power resides with the Funds’ Boards of Trustees. Fidelity carries out the voting of the shares under written guidelines established by the Funds’ Boards of Trustees. Fidelity Management Trust Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of FMR Corp. and a bank as defined in Section 3(a)(6) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, is the beneficial owner of 1,181,000 H shares as a result of its serving as investment manager of the institutional account(s). Edward C. Johnson III and FMR Corp., through its control of Fidelity Management Trust Company, each has sole dispositive power over 1,181,000 H shares and sole power to vote or to direct the voting of 1,181,000 H shares owned by the institutional account(s) as reported above. Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (“PGALLC”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of FMR Corp. and an investment adviser registered under Section 203 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, is the beneficial owner of 5,388,000 H shares as a result of its serving as investment adviser to institutional accounts, non-U.S. mutual funds, or investment companies registered under Section 8 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 owning such shares. Edward C. Johnson III and FMR Corp., through its control of PGALLC, each has sole dispositive power over 5,388,000 H shares and sole power to vote or to direct the voting of 5,388,000 H shares owned by the institutional accounts or funds advised by PGALLC as reported above. Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company (“PGATC”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of FMR Corp. and a bank as defined in Section 3(a)(6) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, is the beneficial owner of 2,602,000 H shares as a result of its serving as investment manager of institutional accounts owning such shares. Edward C. Johnson III and FMR Corp., through its control of Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company, each has sole dispositive power over 2,602,000 H shares and sole power to vote or to direct the voting of 2,602,000 H shares owned by the institutional accounts managed by PGATC as reported above. Fidelity International Limited (“FIL”) and various foreign-based subsidiaries provide investment advisory and management services to a number of non-U.S. investment companies and certain institutional investors. FIL, which is a qualified institution under section 240.13d-1(b)(1) pursuant to an SEC No-Action letter dated October 5, 2000, is the beneficial owner of 228,849,000 H shares. FIL has sole dispositive power over 228,849,000 H shares owned by the International Funds. FIL has sole power to vote or direct the voting of 228,663,000 H shares and no power to vote or direct the voting of 186,000 H shares by the International Funds as reported above. FMR Corp. and FIL disclaim beneficial ownership of shares beneficially owned by the other.

(6)These references to 428,358,620 H sharesShares relate to the same block of shares in China Life.the Company.

These 428,358,620 H shares were held by Richbo Investment Limited (“Richbo”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Shau Kee Financial Enterprises Limited (“Shau Kee Financial”). Lee Financial (Cayman) Limited (“Lee Financial”) as trustee of a unit trust (the “Unit Trust”) owned all the issued shares of Shau Kee Financial. Leeworld (Cayman) Limited (“Leeworld”) and Leesons (Cayman) Limited (“Leesons”), as trustees of respective discretionary trusts, held units in the Unit Trust. Mr. Lee Shau Kee owned the entire issued share capital of Lee Financial, Leeworld and Leesons. Accordingly, Mr. Lee Shau Kee, Lee Financial, Leeworld, Leesons, Shau Kee Financial and Richbo were taken to have an interest in these 428,358,620 H shares.

These 428,358,620 H shares were held by Richbo Investment Limited (“Richbo”), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Shau Kee Financial Enterprises Limited (“Shau Kee Financial”). Lee Financial (Cayman) Limited (“Lee Financial”) as trustee of a unit trust (the “Unit Trust”) owned all the issued shares of Shau Kee Financial. Leeworld (Cayman) Limited (“Leeworld”) and Leesons (Cayman) Limited (“Leesons”), as trustees of respective discretionary trusts, held units in the Unit Trust. Mr. Lee Shau Kee owned the entire issued share capital of Lee Financial, Leeworld and Leesons. Accordingly, Mr. Lee Shau Kee, Lee Financial, Leeworld, Leesons, Shau Kee Financial and Richbo were taken to have an interest in these 428,358,620 H shares.

Our domesticA shares and H shares generally vote together as a single class, including the election of directors. Each domesticA share and each H share is entitled to one vote. In addition, in certain matters which affect the rights of the holders of H shares or A share, the H shares or A shares, as the case may be, are entitled to vote as a separate class.

CLIC converted and sold 676,470,000 domestic shares in the form of H shares or ADSs in connection with our global offering in December 2003.

Based on the information provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., the depositary bank, as of December 31, 20052006 and May 12, 2006,11, 2007, there were, respectively, 10,179,17033,080,768 ADRs representing 407,166,800496,211,520 H shares, with 2429 registered holders, and 8,842,42530,235,068 ADRs representing 353,697,000453,526,020 H shares, with 2443 registered holders. Since certain of the ADSs are held by nominees, the above number may not be representative of the actual number of U.S. beneficial holders of ADSs or number of ADSs beneficially held by U.S. persons.

CLIC, our controlling shareholder, is a wholly state-owned enterprise controlled by the PRC government. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company”. None of our major shareholders has voting rights that differ from the voting rights of other shareholders, except that in certain matters which affect the rights of the holders of H shares or A shares, holders of H share are entitled to vote as a separate class on certain matters. We are not aware of any arrangement which may at a subsequent date result in a change of control of our company.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

As at the date of this annual report, CLIC owns approximately 72.2%68.4% of our issued share capital. CLIC and we renewedis therefore considered as our connected person under the policy management agreement and property leasing agreement in December 2005. The asset management joint venture established by us and CLIC also renewed the two asset management agreements, one with us and one with CLIC, in December 2005. In addition, in March 2006 weHKSE Listing Rules. We entered into a promoters agreement in March 2006 with CLIC and the asset management joint venture

AMC for the formation of a pension company, and entered into with CLIC, a share subscription agreement in March 2006 and a promoters agreement in October 2006 for the formation of a property and casualty insurance company. CLIC and we renewed the property leasing agreement in January 2007. We also entered into an asset purchase agreement with CLIC in January 2007 for purchase of certain real estate, construction in progress, land use rights, cars and equipments etc. The transactions contemplated under these agreements constitute connected transactions for us under the HKSE Listing Rules. In March 2007, we entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with Guangdong Development Bank. This transaction is not regarded as a connected transaction for us under the HKSE Listing Rules.

Set forth below are details of these agreements.the related party transactions.

Restructuring Agreement

We have entered into a restructuring agreement with CLIC under which CLIC agreed to transfer to us a portion of its insurance business and various investment and operating assets, management personnel and employees, and we assumed various obligations and liabilities, as described under “Item 4.

Information on the Company—History and Development of the Company—Our Restructuring”. We received the benefits of all of the rights and interests, and assumed all the liabilities and obligations, associated with the transferred assets and policies, commencing as of June 30, 2003, the effective date of the restructuring. The remaining business of CLIC primarily comprised the non-transferred policies and non-core businesses which are not insurance-related, including investments in property, hotels and other operations through subsidiaries. As a result of the restructuring, CLIC’s management and personnel are different from ours and we work independently of CLIC.

Under the restructuring agreement, CLIC made various representations and warranties in relation to the business, assets and liabilities transferred to us in the restructuring.

In addition, under the restructuring agreement, CLIC indemnified us against all claims, losses, damages, payments or other expenses incurred by us in connection with or arising from, among others:

 

 1)all taxes, fees, surcharges, penalties and interest payable by CLIC as determined under the restructuring agreement;

 

 2)the negligence or fault of CLIC in acting on our behalf while holding any assets, interests or liabilities that were to be transferred to us, but for which third-party consents had not been obtained by the effective date;

 

 3)any dispute regarding our status as the insurer of the insurance policies issued by CLIC on or after June 30, 2003 until the date when we begin to write polices on our own behalf;

 

 4)all claims by policyholders under long-term insurance policies issued on or after June 10, 1999, having policy terms approved by or filed with the CIRC on or after June 10, 1999, but which for whatever reason failed to be recorded as long-term insurance policies as of June 30, 2003 in the database attached to the restructuring agreement as an annex;

 

 5)the failure of CLIC to transfer the assets, interests and liabilities to us in accordance with the restructuring agreement and other restructuring documents;

 

 6)the assets, interests and liabilities retained by CLIC after the restructuring;

 7)the transfer of the assets, interests and liabilities to us under the restructuring;

 

 8)a breach of any provision of the restructuring agreement on the part of CLIC; and

 

 9)any actual, pending or threatened arbitration or litigation affecting any asset transferred to us.

The restructuring agreement provides, among other things, that any profits or losses incurred on the transferred assets and policies from June 30, 2002 to June 30, 2003 are for the benefit of or to be borne by CLIC.

We agreed to indemnify CLIC against any claims or losses arising from our breach of the restructuring agreement.

Policy Management Agreement

General

As part of the restructuring, CLIC transferred its entire branch services network to us. In order to capitalize on the large customer base of CLIC, increase the utilization of our customer service network and increase our revenue sources, CLIC engaged us to provide policy administration services relating to the non-transferred policies.

We and CLIC entered into a policy management agreement on September 30, 2003 which sets out our responsibilities and duties to CLIC under these policy administration arrangements. Such agreement expired in December 2005, and we and CLIC entered into a renewed policy management agreement on December 24, 2005. In order to better implement this agency arrangement, we, in consultation with CLIC are in the process of formulatingformulated a detailed manual of procedures for our front and back offices which sets out the procedures to be followed when handling claims and benefit payments and collecting premiums in relation to non-transferred policies, as well as rules for the day-to-day monitoring of the policy servicing operations.

Terms of the Policy Management Agreement

Pursuant to the renewed policy management agreement, we agreed to provide policy administration services to CLIC relating to the non-transferred policies, including day-to-day insurance administration services, customer services, statistics and file management, invoice and receipt management, reinstatement of non-transferred policies, applications for and renewal of riders to the non-transferred policies, reinsurance, and handling of disputes relating to the non-transferred policies. We act as a service provider under the agreement and do not acquire any rights or assume any obligations as an insurer under the non-transferred policies.

Under the renewed policy management agreement, we will issue a monthly funding request to CLIC, based on actuarially determined forecasts and supporting data, for amounts to be payable to CLIC policyholders. CLIC will transfer, within five business days prior to each calendar month, to an account under our control, funds sufficient to pay insurance benefits and commissions to be paid under the non-transferred policies, as well as estimated third-party costs and expenses, for that calendar month. We may also request emergency funding from CLIC, if we reasonably believe that the account balance will become insufficient in ten business days to make those payments. We are not required to make any advances on behalf of CLIC to cover any shortfall of funds.

In consideration of our services provided under the agreement, CLIC will pay us a service fee based on our estimated cost of providing the services, to which a profit margin is added. The service fee is equal to, for each semi-annual payment period, the

sum of (1) the number of non-transferred policies in force that were within their policy term as of the last day of the period, multiplied by RMB 8.0;8.0 per policy; and (2) 2.50% of the actual premiums and deposits in respect of such policies collected during the period. For these purposes, the number of policies in-force for group insurance policies is equal to the number of individuals covered by the policies (excluding those whose policies have lapsed or matured).

In December, 2005, weThe renewed thepolicy management agreement with CLICis for a term of three years effective from January 1, 2006 and expiring on December 31, 2008. Subject to the HKSE Listing Rules, the agreement will be automatically renewed for successive three years terms, unless terminated by either party by giving to the other party not less than 180 days’ prior written notice to terminate the agreement at the expiration of the then current term. We are also permitted to terminate the agreement, upon giving 30 days’ prior written notice, if (1) CLIC fails to pay us the service fee in accordance with the agreement in an aggregate amount of at least RMB 100 million; or (2) we are unable to make timely payment of insurance benefits, commissions and/or third-party costs in an aggregate amount of at least RMB 300 million as a result of CLIC failing to transfer sufficient funds to the account controlled by us in accordance with the agreement.

Measures Taken to Ensure that We Have Sufficient Cash to Settle Claims Relating to Non-Transferred Policies

The following is a description of the measures that we currently have in place to ensure that we have sufficient cash to settle claims relating to non-transferred policies.

Under the renewed policy management agreement, the operations relating to the transferred policies and the non-transferred policies must be separately managed, settled (including daily and monthly settlement) and checked, and we are not required to make any advances on behalf of CLIC to cover deficiencies in the payment of claims under the non-transferred policies. In order to ensure that there is sufficient cash to pay claims under the non-transferred policies on a day-to-day basis, we and CLIC have implemented the following procedures:

 

Our headquarters and all branch offices at provincial level have opened and are using segregated bank accounts to manage funds and payments in relation to claims and benefits under the non-transferred policies. Substantially all of our branches below the provincial level have already opened segregated bank accounts, and the remaining branches will also open segregated bank accounts as necessary.

 

We will, based on actuarially determined forecasts and supporting data relating to the non-transferred policies, maintain a minimum daily balance for each segregated account. The segregated accounts will be brought up to this minimum daily balance should they fall below the required level on any given day.

 

In the event of an unexpectedly large claim or benefit payment, or a claim or benefit payment which exceeds the minimum daily balance, a request for funds will be made to the branch at the next higher level. If a provincial-level branch does not have sufficient funds to make a payment, it will make a request for funding to our headquarters. If there is a deficiency at the headquarters level, we will make a payment request to CLIC or to the special purpose fund established by the MOF and CLIC.

Asset Management Agreements

The asset management joint venture established by us and CLIC, China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited,AMC has entered into two asset management agreements, effective on November 30, 2003, one with us and one with CLIC.

We renewed the agreement with the asset management companyAMC on December 29, 2005 for a term of two years expiring on December 31, 2007. Subject to the HKSE Listing Rules, the agreement will be automatically renewed for successive one year term, unless terminated by either party by giving the other party not less than 90 day’s prior written notice to terminate the agreement at the expiration of the then current term.

In connection with the asset management agreement with the asset management joint ventureAMC and in order to ensure the safeguarding of our insurance assets, we entered into a custodian agreement with Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, as the custodian bank of our assets, and a memorandum on the investment management and custody of insurance assets among Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, the asset management joint ventureAMC and us.

The material terms of the renewed asset management agreement between China Life and the asset management joint ventureAMC are set forth below.

Under the asset management agreement between the asset management joint ventureAMC and China Life, the asset management joint ventureAMC agreed to invest and manage assets entrusted to it by China Life on a discretionary basis, subject to the investment guidelines and instructions given by China Life.

In accordance with the agreement, China Life retains the title of the entrusted assets and the asset management joint ventureAMC is authorized to operate the accounts associated with the entrusted assets for and on behalf of China Life. China Life may add to or withdraw from the assets managed by the asset management joint ventureAMC pursuant to the agreement. All investment losses relating to the assets managed by the asset management joint ventureAMC pursuant to the agreement will be borne by China Life, except for losses and liabilities arising from the asset management joint venture’sAMC’s misconduct. China Life has the right to establish, and amend from time to time, the investment guidelines which set forth the general investment principles regarding the assets under the asset management joint venture’sAMC’s management and, for specific periods, requirements relating to, among others, investment scope, portfolio, risk control and benchmark investment rate of return. China Life also has the right to give instructions for the liquidation of assets to meet its cash needs and the right to monitor the investment management activities of the asset management joint venture.AMC.

In addition to acting as China Life’s investment manager, the asset management joint ventureAMC is permitted to invest its own assets and provide investment management services to third-party insurance companies. The asset management joint ventureAMC agreed to inform China Life in the event that it, in its professional judgment, believes that there is a conflict of interest in the activities on behalf of itself and others. The asset management joint ventureAMC has discretion to take such actions and measures which in its professional judgment are fair, reasonable and necessary to resolve any such conflict.

In consideration of its services provided under the agreement, China Life agreed to pay the asset management joint ventureAMC service fees, comprised of a monthly service fee and an annual floating service fee. The monthly service fee payable is comprised of two parts: (1) the aggregate of the monthly service fee for each specified category of assets that are not under the custody of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and (2) the aggregate of the monthly service fee for each specified category of assets that are under the custody of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China. The monthly service fee for assets not under custody is calculated on a monthly basis, by multiplying the average of net asset value of the assets in each such category under management at the end of any given month and the end of the previous month by the applicable annual rate for that month set forth in the table below (by reference to basis points), divided by twelve. The monthly service fee for assets under custody is calculated on a daily basis, by multiplying the net asset value of the assets in each such category under management at the end of any given day by the applicable annual rate set forth in the table below (by reference to basis points), divided by 360.

The asset management joint ventureAMC and China Life may, within the first month of each year, agree to change the annual rate for that year, but if there is no new agreement, the existing annual rate for the prior year will remain in force.

In relation to any new type of investment product (not included in the categories below) which may be permitted by applicable law or the CIRC in the future, the agreement

provides that the asset management joint ventureAMC and China Life will agree on a fair and reasonable annual rate to be applicable to that type of investment product.

The following table sets forth the applicable annual rates in relation to the total net asset value of the assets managed by the asset management joint venture.AMC.

 

  Total net asset value of managed assets at the end of
relevant month/day
  Total net asset value of managed assets at the end of relevant month/day

Item

  RMB 450
billion
below
  More than and
equal to
RMB 450
billion
and less
than
550 billion
  More than and
equal to
RMB 550
billion
and less
than
650 billion
  More than
RMB 650
billion
  RMB 450
billion below
  More than and
equal to RMB 450
billion and
less than 550 billion
  More than and
equal to RMB 550
billion and
less than 650 billion
  More than
RMB 650
billion
  (bps)  (bps)  (bps)  (bps)  (bps)  (bps)  (bps)  (bps)

Term deposits

                

Existing

  1.2  1.2  0.7  0.4  1.2  1.2  0.7  0.4

Incremental

  1.2  1.2  0.7  0.4  1.2  1.2  0.7  0.4

Debt securities

        

Long term

  5  4.2  3  2

Short term

  30  28  26  22

Debt securities(1)

        

Held-to-maturity

  5  4.2  3  2

Held-for-sale

  5  4.2  3  2

Held-for-trading

  30  28  26  22

Securities investment funds

                

Stocks

  25  25  22  20  25  25  22  20

Index

  15  13  11  10  15  13  11  10

Equity investment

                

Active

  50  48  45  40  50  48  45  40

Passive

  30  25  20  15  30  25  20  15

Cash

  1  1  1  1  1  1  1  1

(1)In March 2007, AMC and China Life made small revisions to the classification of debt securities in accordance with the new accounting standards applicable to PRC listed companies from January 1, 2007.

In addition to the monthly service fee, China Life will pay the asset management joint ventureAMC an annual floating service fee. Within 90 days of the submission of the annual report for the previous year by the joint venture, China Life will review the investment performance of the asset management joint ventureAMC for the previous year and conclude a performance score that ranges from 0 to 100. The annual floating service fee for any given year is calculated by multiplying ten percent of the aggregate of the monthly service fee paid for that year by performance score divided by 100.

The service fee under the asset management agreement was determined by China Life and the asset management joint ventureAMC based on an analysis of the cost of providing the service, market practice and the size and composition of the asset pool to be managed.

CLIC renewed the agreement with the asset management companyAMC on December 27, 2005 for a term of three years expiring on December 31, 2008. Subject to the HKSE Listing Rules, the parties may negotiate the term of the renewal not less than 90 days prior to the expiration of the current term.

The material terms of the renewed asset management agreement between CLIC and the asset management joint ventureAMC are set forth below.

Under the asset management agreement between the asset management joint ventureAMC and CLIC, the asset management joint ventureAMC agreed to invest and manage assets entrusted to it by CLIC on a discretionary basis, subject to the investment guidelines and instructions given by CLIC.

In accordance with the agreement, CLIC retains the title of the entrusted assets and the asset management joint ventureAMC is authorized to operate the accounts associated with the entrusted assets for and on behalf of CLIC. CLIC may add to or withdraw from the assets managed by the asset management joint ventureAMC pursuant to the agreement. CLIC has the right to establish, and amend from time to time, the investment guidelines which set forth the general investment principles regarding the assets under the asset management joint venture’sAMC’s management and, for specific periods, requirements relating to, among others, investment scope, portfolio, liquidity, risk control and benchmark investment return. CLIC also has the right to monitor the investment management activities of the asset management joint venture.AMC.

In addition to acting as CLIC’s investment manager, the asset management joint ventureAMC is permitted to invest its own assets and provide investment management services to third-party insurance companies.

In consideration of its services provided under the agreement, CLIC agreed to pay the asset management joint ventureAMC a monthly service fee and an annual bonus or deduction, where applicable. The monthly service fee is calculated on a monthly basis, by multiplying the average of account balance value of the assets under management (less funds from sale of securities under the agreement to repurchase and interest thereof) at the beginning and the end of any given month by the basis annual rate of 0.05%, divided by twelve.

After the conclusion of each fiscal year, CLIC will review the investment performance of the asset management joint ventureAMC for the previous year. If the investment return for the assets managed for a particular year exceeds the benchmark investment return, as previously agreed between CLIC and the asset management joint ventureAMC for those assets for that year, the asset management joint ventureAMC will be entitled to an annual performance bonus fee determined by CLIC, the amount of which shall not exceed the difference between the actual investment return and the benchmark investment return set for the previous year. If the actual investment return is less than the benchmark investment return as agreed between CLIC and the asset management joint ventureAMC for those assets for that year, the asset management joint ventureAMC will be required to rebate a portion of its monthly fees received for the previous year determined by the CLIC, the amount of which shall not exceed the difference between the actual investment return and the benchmark investment return set for the previous year.

Property Leasing Agreement

We have entered into a property leasing agreement with CLIC on September 30, 2003, pursuant to which CLIC agreed to lease to us (1) 833 buildings owned by CLIC, its subsidiaries and affiliates, which we refer to as the CLIC owned properties, and (2) 1,764 buildings that CLIC is entitled to sublet, which we refer to as the CLIC leased properties, for an aggregate initial annual rent (payable quarterly) of approximately RMB 335 million. The properties occupied by us are mainly used as our office premises. The annual rent payable by us to CLIC in relation to the CLIC owned properties is determined by

reference to market rent or, where there is no available comparison, by reference to the costs incurred by CLIC in holding and maintaining the properties, plus a margin of approximately 5%. The annual rent payable by us to CLIC in relation to the CLIC leased properties will be determined by reference to the rent payable under the head lease plus the actual costs incurred by CLIC arising in connection with the subletting of the properties.

Each party may, by giving notice to the other party no later than November 30 of each year, reduce or increase the number of properties under the lease and make adjustments accordingly to the rent payable for the next year. The parties will also revise the annual rent payable at the year end to reflect, in addition to any decrease or increase to the number of properties to be leased, any change of the market rates.

CLIC agreed to indemnify us, among other things, against all claims and losses incurred by us arising in connection with (1) the CLIC owned properties which CLIC does not have full legal title; and (2) the subletting of the CLIC leased properties to us.

The agreement also contains rights of first refusal allowing us to purchase the underlying property if CLIC wishes to sell the property. In this regard, we will comply with the provisions of Chapter 14A of the HKSE Listing Rules if we exercise the right of first refusal to acquire the properties from CLIC unless we apply for, and obtain, a separate waiver from the HKSE.

We renewed the agreement on December 23, 2005 with respect to 963 CLIC owned properties and 707 CLIC leased properties for a fixed term expiring on December 31, 2006.

Application for waiver fromWe further renewed the Hong Kong Stock Exchange

agreement with CLIC on January 4, 2007 under substantially the same terms of the agreement entered into on September 30, 2003. Pursuant to the renewed agreement, CLIC agreed to lease to us 1,174 CLIC owned properties and 126 CLIC leased properties, for an aggregate initial annual rent (payable semi-annually) of approximately RMB 66 million.

Compliance with HKSE Listing Rules

Given that the annual consideration payable under each of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the transactions contemplated under theabove mentioned policy management agreement dated December 24, 2005, the two asset management agreements dated December 27, 2005 and December 29, 2005 and the property leasing agreement would normally require full disclosure and with prior approval by independent shareholders and/ordated December 23, 2005 represents less than 2.5% of the applicable percentage ratios, as defined in the HKSE onListing Rules, each occasion it arises, depending on the nature and value of the transaction. In the course of our application for the listing, we submitted the application for waiver from the HKSE regardingagreements is only subject to the full disclosure of the above transactions required byreporting, announcement and annual review requirements under the HKSE Listing Rules and is exempt from independent shareholders’ approval. In compliance with applicable HKSE Listing Rules requirements, we made an announcement disclosing the HKSE conditionally waived the ongoing disclosure responsibilities of us.above agreements on December 30, 2005.

Figures for the year ended December 31, 20052006

The aggregate value of each of the transactions contemplated under the policy management agreement, the asset management agreements and the property leasing agreement for the year ended December 31, 20052006 is set out below:

 

Connected Transactions

  The aggregate value for
the year ended
December 31, 20052006
   (RMB in millions)

1.      Policy management agreement

  1,5671,555

2.      Asset management agreement

  

(a)    between CLIC and the AMC

  84

(b)    between the AMC and the Company

  239    283

3.      Property leasing agreement

  335    168

Confirmation of Independent Non-executive Directors:

Our independent non-executive directors have reviewed the above connected transactions and confirmed that the transactions were:

 

 (i)entered into in the ordinary and usual course of the business of China Life;

 

 (ii)conducted either on normal commercial terms or on terms that are fair and reasonable so far as our independent shareholders are concerned;

 

 (iii)entered into either in accordance with the agreements governing those transactions or where there are no such agreements, on terms no less favorable than those available to or from independent third parties;transactions; and

 

 (iv)withinthe amounts of the transactions had not exceeded the relevant annual caps as agreed with the HKSE.announced by China Life.

Trademark License Agreement

We conduct our business under the “China Life” brand name (in English and Chinese), the “ball” logos and other business related slogans and logos. We entered into a trademark license agreement with CLIC on September 30, 2003, pursuant to which CLIC granted to us and our branches a royalty-free license to use these trademarks in the PRC and other countries and territories in which CLIC has registered these trademarks. CLIC has registered one of the “ball” logothese trademarks in the PRC and has filed applications to register the trademarks in the “China Life” name (in English and Chinese), the other ball logo and other business related slogans and logos with the Trademark Office of the SAIC. CLIC undertook in the trademark license agreement to maintain and renew, at its own expense, the registration of the licensed trademarks. If requested by us, CLIC will procure, at its own expense, registration of the trademarks in additional products and service classifications and/or additional countries or territories. CLIC will retain ownership of these trademarks.

We may also license a third party to use the trademarks with the written consent of CLIC. CLIC and its subsidiaries and affiliates are entitled to use these trademarks. CLIC may not license or transfer these trademarks to any other third party or allow any other third party to use the trademarks.

The trademark license agreement permits us to use the trademarks until such time as either the trademark license agreement is terminated either by agreement between CLIC and ourselves, or pursuant to relevant laws, regulations or consent orders, or at the expiration of the registration of the trademarks, which is currently November 6, 2007 and is renewable at our option.

Non-Competition Agreement

We entered into a non-competition agreement with CLIC on September 30, 2003 pursuant to which CLIC undertook that during the term of the agreement, unless we otherwise consent in writing in advance, it will not, and it will use its best efforts to procure its subsidiaries and affiliates not to, directly or indirectly, participate, operate or engage in any life, accident or health insurance or other businesses in China which may compete with our insurance businesses. Before entering into the share subscription agreement in connection with the formation of a property and casualty insurance joint venture stock company on March 13, 2006, as described below, we consented in writing that CLIC may engage in accident and short-term health businesses indirectly through a property and casualty joint venture with us. CLIC also undertook (1) to refer to us any corporate business opportunity that falls within our business scope and which may directly or indirectly compete with our business and (2) to grant us a right of first refusal, on the same terms and

conditions, to purchase any new business developed by CLIC. The non-competition agreement allows CLIC to continue its business under the non-transferred policies.

In addition, CLIC currently holds a 51% interest in China Life-CMG Life Assurance Company Ltd., a Sino-foreign joint venture with CMG, an Australian insurance company. The joint venture is registered in Shanghai, China and engaged in the business

of life insurance and related reinsurance in Shanghai. CLIC agreed to dispose of all of its interests in this joint venture to third parties or eliminate any competition between China Life-CMG Life Assurance Company Ltd. and us within three years of our listing on the HKSE. As of the date of this annual report, the transfer of CLIC’s equity interest in this joint venture is still ongoing

CLIC also agreed with us in the non-competition agreement that we will have a right of first refusal in respect of the transfer of the non-transferred policies retained by CLIC.

The non-competition agreement will remain valid and in full force until the earlier of (1) CLIC beneficially holding, directly or indirectly, less than 30% of our issued share capital and ceasing to control the majority of our board of directors; and (2) our H shares or ADSs no longer being listed on the HKSE or any other stock exchange.

Asset Purchase Agreement

We entered into an asset purchase agreement with CLIC in January 2007 pursuant to which we purchased from CLIC certain assets which were owned by CLIC or which CLIC had the rights to dispose of, including real estate, construction in progress, land use rights, cars and equipment. We paid approximately RMB 488 million for these assets. The price for these assets was determined by a valuation provided by a third-party assets valuator mutually engaged by CLIC and us. Most of the assets purchased by us were previously leased to us by CLIC and are being used by our branch offices.

Share Subscription Agreement and Promoters Agreement for the Formation of a Property and Casualty Insurance Joint Stock Company

We entered into a share subscription agreement with CLIC on March 13, 2006 and a promoters agreement with CLIC on October 23, 2006 for the formation of a property and casualty insurance joint stock company. In this connection and in accordance with the non-competition agreement between CLIC and ourselves, we consented in writing to allow CLIC to engage in accident and short-term health businesses indirectly through the property and casualty joint venture with us. Under the share subscription agreement and the promoters agreement, we and CLIC agreed that the proposed registered capital of the company will be RMB 1,000 million, for which CLIC and we will subscribesubscribed for 60% and 40%, respectively. The joint venture will either be through the formation of a newproperty and casualty company or acquisition of an existing company.

Details and timing regarding the formation of the company are subject to terms to be set out in a definitive agreement and approved by the CIRC.obtained its business license on December 30, 2006.

Promoters Agreement for the Formation of a Professional Pension Insurance Company

We entered into a promoters agreement with CLIC and our asset management joint ventureAMC on March 13,21, 2006 for the formation of China Life Pension Company Limited, a joint stock company, as a professional pension insurance company in China for developing pension insurance business. Under the promoters agreement, CLIC, we and the asset management jointAMC agreed that the proposed registered capital of the company will be RMB 600 million, for which CLIC, we and the asset management joint venture will subscribeAMC subscribed for 55%25%, 25%55% and 20%, respectively. Each party to the promoters agreement willagreed to provide various technical services to the pension company and will engage the company to provide pension fund management related to the business of each party to the promoters agreement. The pension company obtained its business license on January 15, 2007.

On November 29, 2005 the CIRC approved our application for the establishment ofStrategic Cooperation Agreement with Guangdong Development Bank

We entered into a professional pension company. The promotersstrategic cooperation agreement with Guangdong Development Bank in March 2007, pursuant to which we agreed to cooperate with Guangdong Development Bank in various areas, including, among others, insurance business, bank cards business, financial business, e-commerce, client resources sharing, information technology, product development and the transactions contemplated thereunder are, however, still subjectbrand promotion. With regards to the approvalcooperation in the insurance business, Guangdong Development Bank undertook to provide

bancassurance services on our behalf. Subject to relevant laws and regulations, we undertook to offer our insurance products to Guangdong Development Bank under certain preferential terms, while Guangdong Development Bank agreed to purchase our products in priority under the same terms and conditions. We will negotiate with Guangdong Development Bank to enter into specific agreements regarding each area of the CIRC.cooperation. The term of this agreement is five years.

INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

Not applicable.

ITEM 8.FINANCIAL INFORMATION.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Our audited consolidated financial statements are set forth beginning on page F-1.

Legal and Regulatory Proceedings

Class Action Litigations

Between March 16, 2004China Life and May 14, 2004,certain of its former directors (the “defendants”) have been named in nine putative class action lawsuits were filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against China Lifebetween March 16, 2004 and certain of its officers and directors. TheseMay 14, 2004. The lawsuits were brought on behalf of a class of purchasers of the publicly traded securities of China Life and allege that the defendants named therein violated Section 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder (“Exchange Act Claims”), and Sections 11 and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 by, among other things, omittinghave been ordered to disclose in the prospectus filed in connection with China Life’s December 2003 initial public offering of its stock that the National Audit Office of China was conducting an audit of the predecessor of the Company’s parent, CLIC. The Court ordered that the nine actions be consolidated and restyledIn re China Life Insurance Company Limited Securities Litigation, No.NO. 04 CV 2112 (TPG), and that a consolidated amended complaint be filed.. Plaintiffs filed a consolidated amended complaint on January 19, 2005, which namednames China Life, Wang Xianzhang (former director), Miao Fuchun (former director) and Wu Yan (former director) as defendants. The consolidated amended complaint alleges that the defendants named therein violated Sections 10(b) and asserts only20(a) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act Claims. Defendantsof 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. China Life has engaged U.S. counsel to contest vigorously on the lawsuits. The defendants jointly moved to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint on March 21, 2005. Plaintiffs then further amended their complaint. Defendants moved to dismiss the second amended complaint on November 18, 2005. That motion has been fully briefed and is pending before the Court. The likelihood of an unfavorable outcome is still uncertain. No provision has been made with respect to these lawsuits.

SEC Informal Inquiry

On April 27, 2004, we received an informal inquiry, dated April 26, 2004, from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) requesting us to produce documents and other relevant information on certain matters. The SEC has advised us that the informal inquiry should not be construed as an indication by the SEC or its staff that any violations of law have occurred, or as a reflection upon any person, entity or security. We are continuingOn June 7, 2006, we received, through our U.S. counsel, a letter dated June 2, 2006 from the division of enforcement of SEC informing that the informal inquiry has been terminated, and no enforcement action has been recommended to fully cooperate with the SEC’s inquiry.SEC.

OtherOthers

We are involved in litigation involving our insurance operations on an ongoing basis. In addition, the CIRC, as well as other PRC governmental agencies, including tax, commerce and industrial administration and audit bureaus, from time to time make inquiries and conduct examinations or investigations concerning our compliance with PRC laws and regulations. These litigation and administrative proceedings have in the past resulted in damage awards, settlements or administrative sanctions, including fines, which have not been material to us. While we cannot predict the outcome of any pending or future litigation, examination or investigation, we do not believe that any pending legal matter will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. However, we cannot assure you that any future litigation or regulatory proceeding will not have an adverse outcome, which could have a material adverse effect on our operating results or cash flows.

We currently have control procedures in place to monitor our litigation and regulatory exposure. We have established a systematic prevention system whereby our management at each corporate level is responsible for compliance with laws, regulations and internal codes of conduct within their individual

territories or departments. Our branches at the provincial level are required to report material litigation and regulatory matters to our corporate headquarters on a timely basis. We plan to continue to improve our control and compliance policies in the future.

We may penalize our employees or individual agents who commit misconduct or fraud, breach the terms of their employment or agency agreements, exceed their authorization limits or fail to follow prescribed procedures in delivering insurance policies and premium payments, in each case having regard to the severity of the offense. Employees or individual agents are required to reimburse us for any losses suffered by us resulting from their misconduct or fraud. In serious cases, we may terminate their employment or agency agreements. We report criminal offenses to the PRC authorities and may also bring concurrent civil actions against employees or individual agents. We have experienced agent and employee misconduct that has resulted in litigation and administrative actions against us and these agents and employees, and in some cases criminal proceedings and convictions against the agent or employee in question. None of these actions has resulted in material losses, damages, fines or other sanctions against us. We cannot assure you, however, that agent or employee misconduct will not lead to a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.

In April 2006, the CIRC announced that it will assess the effectiveness of internal controls, as well as regulatory compliance matters relating to business operations, of Chinese insurance companies, health insurance companies and asset managementpension insurance companies during a three-year period immediately after the announcement, in accordance with the tentative rules on internal control assessment of life insurance companies. The purposes of such assessment were stated to be to facilitate and supervise the companies in order to improve their awareness of, and strengthen their controls over, matters such as corporate governance in management, internal controls, regulatory compliance in operations and risk management. We are among the companies expected to bewere reviewed by the CIRC in 2006.2006 and were found to be in general compliance with the rules and regulations of CIRC, other than a small number of breaches by our branches which resulted in us being sanctioned by way of fines, none of which were material. The breaches mainly included improper handling of certain premiums received, which violated relevant CIRC rules and regulations. The fines imposed by CIRC ranged from RMB 20,000 (US$2,563) to RMB 500,000 (US$64,069). All the fines have been paid in full.

Policy on Dividend Distributions

Our board of directors has passed a resolution on April 17, 2007 to propose for approval at the annual general meeting, to be convened on June 16, 2006, of the declaration of final dividends of RMB 0.050.14 per share, totaling approximately RMB 1,3383,957 million (US$166507 million), for the year ended December 31, 2005.2006. The proposed dividends have not been provided for in our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2005.2006.

The payment of any dividend by us must be approved by shareholders in a shareholders’ meeting. Our board of directors intends to make its recommendations regarding the declaration of cash dividends to the shareholders in general meeting. The decision to make a recommendation for the payment of any dividend and the amount of the dividend for the years following 20052006 will depend on:

 

our results of operations and cash flows;

 

our financial position;

 

statutory solvency requirements as determined under PRC GAAP with reference to CIRC rules;

 

our shareholders’ interests;

 

general business conditions;

 

our future prospects;

 

statutory and regulatory restrictions on the payment of dividends by us; and

 

other factors that our board of directors deems relevant.

We will pay dividends out of our after-tax profits only after we have made the following allowances and allocations:

 

recovery of accumulated losses, if any;

 

allocations to the statutory common reserve fund equivalent to 10% of our after-tax income, as determined under PRC GAAP; and

 

allocations to the statutory common welfare fund equivalent to between 5% and 10% of our after-tax income, as determined under PRC GAAP; and

allocations to a discretionary common reserve fund as approved by the shareholders in a shareholders’ meeting.

The minimum and maximum allocations to the statutory funds are 15% and 20% of our after-tax income, as determined under PRC GAAP. When the statutory common reserve fund reaches and is maintained at or above 50% of our registered capital, as determined under PRC GAAP, no further allocations to this fund will be required.

Under Chinese law, dividends may be paid only out of distributable profits. Distributable profits means our after-tax profits as determined under PRC GAAP or HKFRS, whichever is lower, less any recovery of accumulated losses and allocations to statutory funds that we are required to make. Any distributable profits that are not distributed in a given year are retained and available for distribution in subsequent years. However, ordinarily we will not pay any dividends in a year in which we do not have any distributable profits.

Payment of dividends by us is also regulated by the PRC insurance law. If we do not meet the minimum solvency levelmargin required by the CIRC, we may be prohibited from paying dividends. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Solvency requirements”.

We declared no dividends in respect of 20032004 and 2004.paid dividends of RMB 0.05 per share in respect of 2005. Our board of directors has recommended the declaration of final dividends of RMB 0.050.14 per share in respect of 2005.2006. We expect to continue to pay dividends in line with our financial performance thereafter. We will declare dividends, if any, in Renminbi with respect to the H shares on a per share basis and will pay such dividends in Hong Kong dollars.

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Recent Developments”Class Action Litigation”.

EMBEDDED VALUE

Background

We prepareChina Life prepares financial statements to public investors in accordance with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards and Hong Kong Accounting Standards (“HKFRS”). An alternative measure of the value and profitability of a life insurance company can be provided by the embedded value method. Embedded value is an actuarially determined estimate of the economic value of the life insurance business of an insurance company based on a particular set of assumptions about future experience, excluding the economic value of future new business. In addition, the value of one year’s sales represents

an actuarially determined estimate of the economic value arising from new life insurance business issued in one year.

We believeChina Life believes that reporting our embedded value and value of one year’s sales provides useful information to investors in two respects. First, the value of our in-force business represents the total amount of distributable earnings, in present value terms, that can be expected to emerge over time, in accordance with the assumptions used. Second, the value of one year’s sales provides an indication of the value created for investors by new business activity and hence the potential of the business. However, the information on embedded value and value of one year’s sales should not be viewed as a substitute forof financial measures under HKFRS or any other accounting basis. Investors should not make investment decisions based solely on embedded value information and the value of one year’s sales.

It is important to note that actuarial standards with respect to the calculation of embedded value are still evolving. There is still no universal standard which defines the form, calculation methodology or presentation format of the embedded value of an insurance company. Hence, differences in definition, methodology, assumptions, accounting basis and disclosures may cause inconsistency when comparing the results of different companies.

Also, embedded value calculation involves substantial technical complexity and estimates can vary materially as key assumptions are changed. Therefore, special care is advised when interpreting embedded value results.

The values shown below do not consider the financial effect of the Policy Management Agreement between CLIC and us,China Life, the Non-competition Agreement between CLIC and China Life, the Trademark License Agreement between CLIC and China Life and the Property Leasing Agreement between CLIC and us,China Life, nor the Trademark License Agreement between CLIC and us and the Non-competition Agreement between CLIC and us, nor thefinancial impact of transactions betweenof China Life with AMC, China Life Pension Company Limited, and China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Asset Management Company and us.Limited.

Definitions of Embedded Value and Value of One Year’s Sales

The embedded value of a life insurer is defined as the sum of the adjusted net worth and the value of in-force business allowing for the cost of capital supporting a company’s desired solvency margin.

“Adjusted net worth” is equal to the sum of:

 

Net assets, defined as assets less policy reserves and other liabilities, all measured on a PRC statutory basis; and

 

Net-of-tax adjustments for relevant differences between the market value of assets and the value determined on a PRC statutory basis, together with relevant net-of-tax adjustments to other liabilities.

According to the PRC accounting basis, an impairment provision is not required until the market value of a long-term investment has been consistently lower than its book value for more than two years. On the other hand, when the market value of a long-term investment is higher than its book value, the excess is not reflected in the accounts. As the embedded value is based on market value, it is necessary to make adjustments to the value of net assets under the PRC accounting basis.

The market value of assets can fluctuate significantly over time due to the impact of the prevailing market environment. Hence the adjusted net worth can fluctuate significantly between valuation dates.

The “value of in-force business” and the “value of one year’s sales” are defined as the discounted value of the projected stream of future after-tax distributable profits for existing in-force business at the valuation date and for one year’s sales in the 12 months immediately preceding the valuation date. Distributable profits arise after allowance for PRC statutory policy reserves and solvency margins at the required regulatory minimum level. The cost of maintaining this solvency margin considers the support provided by the Staff Welfare Fund.

The value of in-force business and the value of one year’s sales have been determined using a traditional deterministic discounted cash flow methodology. This methodology makes implicit allowance for the cost of investment guarantees and policyholder options, asset/liability mismatch risk, credit risk and the economic cost of capital through the use of a risk-adjusted discount rate.

Assumptions

The calculations are based upon assumed corporate tax rate of 33% in 2006 and 2007, and 25% in 2008 thereafter. The investment returns of 4.0%are assumed to be 4.35% in 2005,2006, grading to 5.2%5.4% in 2013 (remaining level thereafter) for the long-term business and 0.72% for the short-term business. An average of 22% in 2006, grading to 13% in 2016 (remaining level thereafter) of the investment returns is assumed to be exempt from income tax which leads to an effective tax rate of approximately 26% on the investment returns for the long-term business. These returns and tax ratesexempt assumptions are based on our long-term strategic asset mix and expected future returns. The risk-adjusted discount rate used is 11.5%. Other assumptions are determined by considering our recent operating experience and expected future outlook.

Preparation

The embedded value and the value of one year’s sales were prepared by usChina Life with assistance from the Tillinghast business of Towers Perrin, an international firm of consulting actuaries. Tillinghast considers that the methodology adopted to determine these values is reasonable in the context of the current environment as a commonly adopted methodology for the purpose of providing an embedded value disclosure in the normal course of financial reporting. Tillinghast also considers that the assumptions adopted to determine these values, taken as a whole, are reasonable for this purpose.

Summary of Results

The embedded value as at December 31, 20052006 and the value of one year’s sales for the 12 months to December 31, 20052006 are shown below.

Table 1

Embedded Value as at December 31, 20052006 and Value of One Year’s Sales in the 12 Months to December 31, 20052006 (RMB million)

 

Item

  

RMB Million

 

A

  Adjusted Net Worth  70,143117,700 

B

  Value of In-Force Business before Cost of Solvency Margin  53,08178,296 

C

  Cost of Solvency Margin  (9,27014,006)

D

  Value of In-Force Business after Cost of Solvency Margin (B + C)  43,81164,290 

E

  Embedded Value (A + D)  113,954181,989 

F

  Value of One Year’s Sales before Cost of Solvency Margin  9,32412,971 

G

  Cost of Solvency Margin  (1,8342,489)

H

  Value of One Year’s Sales after Cost of Solvency Margin (F + G)  7,48910,481 

Note: Numbers may not be additive due to rounding.


Note:Numbers may not be additive due to rounding.

Movement Analysis

The following analysis tracks the movement of the embedded value from the start to the end of the reporting period.

Table 2

Analysis of Embedded Value Movement in 20052006 (RMB million)

 

Item

  

RMB Million

 

A

  Embedded Value at Start of Year  90,073113,954 

B

  Expected Return on Embedded Value  6,1529,072 

C

  Value of New Business in the Period  7,48910,481 

D

  Operating Experience Variance  (2081,615)

E

  Investment Experience Variance  2593,116 

F

  Assumption other than Corporate Tax Assumption and Model Changes  (1,5581,334)

G

Corporate Tax Assumption Changes4,111

H

  Market Value Adjustment  11,69211,604 
H

I

Shareholder Dividend Distribution(1,338)

J

Capital Inflow27,810

K

  Other  54230 

IL

  Embedded Value as at 31 December 20052006 (sum A through H)K)  113,954181,989 


Notes:1) Numbers may not be additive due to rounding.

 2)Items B through HK are explained below:

 BReflects 11.5% of the opening value of in-force business and value of new business sales in 20052006 plus the return on investments supporting the 20052006 opening adjusted net worth.

 CValue of new business sales in 2005.2006.

 DReflects the difference between actual 20052006 experience (including lapse, mortality, morbidity, expense and expensetax etc.) and the assumptions.

 ECompares actual with expected investment returns during 2005.2006.

 FReflects the effect of projection model enhancements and assumption revisions other than corporate tax assumption for selected products and a small increase in assumed investment returns.

 GReflects the effect of corporate tax changes.
HChange in the market value adjustment from the end of year 20042005 to the end of the year 2005.2006.

 HIReflects dividends distributed to shareholders during 2006.
JCapital inflow from A-share financing at the end of 2006.
KOther miscellaneous items.

Sensitivity Testing

Sensitivity testing was performed using a range of alternative assumptions. In each of the sensitivity tests, only the assumption referred to was changed, with all other assumptions remaining unchanged. The results are summarized below.

Table 3

Sensitivity Results (RMB million)

   Value of In-force
Business after Cost of
Solvency Margin
  Value of One Year’s
Sales after Cost of
Solvency Margin

Base case scenario

  64,290  10,481

Risk discount rate of 12.5%

  57,695  9,263

Risk discount rate of 10.5%

  71,893  11,905

10% increase in investment return

  76,160  12,373

10% decrease in investment return

  52,418  8,590

10% increase in expenses

  63,291  9,809

10% decrease in expenses

  65,288  11,154

10% increase in mortality rate for non-annuity products and 10% decrease in mortality rate for annuity products

  63,392  10,333

10% decrease in mortality rate for non-annuity products and 10% increase in mortality rate for annuity products

  65,178  10,630

10% increase in lapse rates

  63,037  10,203

10% decrease in lapse rates

  65,617  10,779

10% increase in morbidity rates

  63,351  10,328

10% decrease in morbidity rates

  65,236  10,635

Solvency margin at 150% of statutory minimum

  57,965  9,202

10% increase in claim ratio of short term business

  64,141  10,166

10% decrease in claim ratio of short term business

  64,438  10,796

   Value of In-force
Business after Cost of
Solvency Margin
  Value of One Year’s
Sales after Cost of
Solvency Margin

Base case scenario

  43,811  7,489

Risk discount rate of 12.5%

  39,524  6,659

Risk discount rate of 10.5%

  48,716  8,446

10% increase in investment return

  51,828  8,849

10% decrease in investment return

  35,784  6,129

10% increase in expenses

  43,100  6,967

10% decrease in expenses

  44,520  8,011

10% increase in mortality rate for non-annuity products and 10% decrease in mortality rate for annuity products

  43,227  7,390

10% decrease in mortality rate for non-annuity products and 10% increase in mortality rate for annuity products

  44,399  7,589

10% increase in lapse rates

  42,794  7,247

10% decrease in lapse rates

  44,897  7,750

10% increase in morbidity rates

  42,797  7,335

10% decrease in morbidity rates

  44,836  7,645

Solvency margin at 150% of statutory minimum

  37,734  6,279

10% increase in claim ratio of short term business

  43,644  7,142

10% decrease in claim ratio of short term business

  43,978  7,837

ITEM 9.THE OFFER AND LISTING.

In connection with our initial public offering, our American depositary shares, or ADSs, each representing 40 H shares, were listed and commenced trading on New York Stock Exchange on December 17, 2003 under the symbol “LFC”. Our H shares were listed and commenced trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on December 18, 2003 under the Stockstock code “2628”. Prior to these listings, there was no public market for our equity securities. The New York Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong

Stock Exchange are the principal trading markets for our ADSs and H shares, which are not listed on any other exchanges in or outside the United States.

On December 29, 2006, the ratio of ADSs to H shares was reduced from 40 H shares to 15 H shares. Our A shares were listed and commenced trading on the Shanghai Stock Exchange on January 9, 2007 under the stock code “601628”.

The high and low closing sale prices of the H shares on the HKSE, and of the ADSs on the NYSE and the A shares on the SSE for the periods indicated are as follows:

 

   Price per H Share
(HK$)
  Price per ADS
(US$)
   High  Low  High  Low

Annual

        

2003 (from listing date)

  6.4000  4.5250  34.75  22.95

2004

  6.5500  3.8500  34.57  19.96

2005

  6.9000  4.8500  35.96  25.20

Quarterly

        

First Quarter, 2004

  6.5500  4.8250  34.57  24.10

Second Quarter, 2004

  5.2500  3.8500  26.88  19.96

Third Quarter, 2004

  5.2000  4.0500  26.76  20.85

Fourth Quarter, 2004

  5.9000  4.8250  30.60  24.82

First Quarter, 2005

  5.4500  5.0500  27.87  25.81

Second Quarter, 2005

  5.4000  4.8500  27.90  25.20

Third Quarter, 2005

  6.3500  5.2000  32.70  26.92

Fourth Quarter, 2005

  6.9000  5.6000  35.96  29.05

First Quarter, 2006

  10.1500  7.0500  51.56  36.69

Monthly

        

November 2005

  6.2000  5.7000  31.97  29.61

December 2005

  6.9000  6.1500  35.96  31.76

January 2006

  7.7500  7.0500  40.93  36.69

February 2006

  9.4500  7.7500  49.43  40.05

March 2006

  10.1500  8.3500  51.56  43.73

April 2006

  10.8500  9.9000  56.38  51.42

May 2006 (through May 26)

  12.8500  10.7500  65.65  54.34
   Price per H Share
(HK$)
  Price per ADS (1)
(US$)
  

Price per A share

(RMB)

 
   High  Low  High  Low  High  Low 

Annual

           

2003

  6.4000  4.5250  13.03  8.61  —    —   

2004

  6.5500  3.8500  12.96  7.49  —    —   

2005

  6.9000  4.8500  13.49  9.45  —    —   

2006

  27.2000  7.0500  52.18  13.76  —    —   

Quarterly

           

First Quarter, 2005

  5.4500  5.0500  10.45  9.68  —    —   

Second Quarter, 2005

  5.4000  4.8500  10.46  9.45  —    —   

Third Quarter, 2005

  6.3500  5.2000  12.26  10.10  —    —   

Fourth Quarter, 2005

  6.9000  5.6000  13.49  10.89  —    —   

First Quarter, 2006

  10.1500  7.0500  19.34  13.76  —    —   

Second Quarter, 2006

  12.8500  9.9000  24.54  19.28  —    —   

Third Quarter, 2006

  16.0000  12.0000  31.13  23.12  —    —   

Fourth Quarter, 2006

  27.2000  15.3400  52.18  29.33  —    —   

First Quarter, 2007

  28.3000  19.2600  55.75  36.70  46.8600(2) 32.0400(2)

Monthly

           

November 2006

  19.3200  16.4600  37.02  31.45  —    —   

December 2006

  27.2000  18.5400  52.18  35.64  —    —   

January 2007

  28.3000  22.8000  55.75  43.52  46.8600(2) 38.9300(2)

February 2007

  24.1000  20.9500  46.05  38.48  38.8000  33.7700 

March 2007

  22.4500  19.2600  43.62  36.70  35.7900  32.0400 

April 2007

  25.7000  22.4000  49.53  43.20  41.6500  35.0800 

May 2007 (through May 11, 2007)

  25.4500  24.1500  50.27  46.71  41.1900  39.2200 

(1)Each ADS represented 40 H shares until December 29, 2006 when the ratio was altered such that each ADS represented 15 H shares. The market quotations shown in the table above have been restated for all periods to reflect the current ratio of 15 H shares per ADS.
(2)From the date of listing: January 9, 2007.

 

ITEM 10.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

SHARE CAPITAL

Not applicable.

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

At the shareholders’ annual shareholders’general meeting held on June 16, 2005 and the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on March 16, 2006, resolutions werea special resolution was passed to amend our articles of association, which werewas approved by the CIRC on October 24, 2005 and April 14, 2006, respectively.August 1, 2006. Our articles of association were amended to the following effect:

 

The notice of shareholders’ meetings shall set out the rights of shareholders to demand for voting by ways of poll and the procedures of voting;

The total numbers of the directors and the supervisors shall be fixed at eleven and five, respectively;

The directors shall meet at least four times each year for regular meetings, each of which shall be convened upon a meeting notice served at least fourteen days before the proposed date of the meeting;

Regular board meetings shall not include the practice of obtaining board consents through the circulation of written resolutions;

An extraordinary board meeting may be held upon a notice of less than fourteen days, but in no event shall it be less than two days; and

The directors shall have the right to inspect board resolutions, meeting minutes, other board documents and relevant information, and China Life shall make available the requested documents for such inspection upon a reasonable notice from such directors.

Also at the annual shareholders’ meeting held in 2005, a special resolution was passed to authorize our board of directors to issue shares having a nominal amount of no more than 20% of each of the aggregate nominal amount of our domestic shares and H shares in issue as at June 16, 2005 by the conclusion of next annual shareholder’s meeting, June 15, 2006, or the date on which this resolution was otherwise revised or revoked, whichever is earlier, and to amend the articles of association accordingly. As of the date of this annual report, no such new shares have been issued.

The board of directors has proposed that resolutions be passed at the annual shareholders’ meeting to be held on June 16, 2006 to further amend our articles of association to the following effects:

In addition to president and vice presidents, other senior management members shall include an assistant to the president, a secretary to the board of directors, a financial officer and other professional or technical senior management, including the chief actuary; and

 

China Life shall have one president to be nominated by the chairman and appointed or dismissed by the board of directors; five to six vice presidents and two to three assistants to president. Vice president and other senior management members, excluding the secretary to the board of directors, shall be nominated by the president and appointed or dismissed by the board of directors. The president, vice president and other senior management members may also be members of the board of directors.

UnderAlso at the same shareholders’ annual general meeting held in June 2006, a special resolution was passed to authorize our board of directors to issue additional shares having a nominal amount of no more than 20% of each of the aggregate nominal amount of our domestic shares and H shares in issue as at June 16, 2006 by the conclusion of next annual shareholder’s meeting, or the expiration of the 12-month period following the passing of this resolution, or the date on which this resolution was otherwise revised or revoked by a special resolution of our shareholders, whichever is the earliest, and to amend the articles of association to increase our registered capital and reflect our new capital structure accordingly.

At the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held on October 16, 2006, a special resolution was passed for us to issue not more than 1,500,000,000 A shares by way of public offering in the PRC. On December 26, 2006, we issued 1,500,000,000 A shares. The A shares have been listed on the SSE since January 9, 2007.

Also at the same extraordinary shareholders’ meeting held in October 2006, a special resolution was passed to amend our articles of association such amendments will not bein connection with the proposed A share offering. The amendment became effective until we obtainupon the completion of the A share offering and upon approval fromby the CIRC on March 26, 2007. The amendment addressed, among others, the following aspects:

alteration of our registered capital and fileshareholding structure;

regulations on the sameproceedings of shareholders’ annual general meetings;

regulations on the election and appointment of directors and supervisors;

regulations on the rights and obligations of shareholders, directors, supervisors, president, vice-president and other senior management;

provisions in relation to the rules and procedures of the shareholders’ general meetings, board meetings and supervisory committee meetings; and

other provisions as required by any applicable laws and regulations for companies with the China Securities Regulatory Commission.A shares in issue.

It is also proposed that a special resolution be passed at the sameshareholders’ annual shareholders’general meeting to be held on June 12, 2007 to authorize our board of directors to issue additional shares, and amend the articles of association accordingly, in a nominal amount of no more than 20% of each of the aggregate nominal amount of our domestic shares and H shares in issue as at the date of such resolution, by the conclusion of next shareholders’ annual shareholders’general meeting, June 15, 2007,or the expiration of the 12-month period following the passing of this resolution, or the date on which the resolution is otherwise revised or revoked by a special resolution of our shareholders, whichever is earlier.the earliest. Our board of directors has no immediate plan to issue any new shares.

We are organized under the PRC company law as a joint stock company. We are registered with the State Administration for Industry and Commerce in Beijing, China and our business license carries the registration number 1000001003796.

Our business scope, set forth in article 10 of our articles of association, is to engage in life, accident and health insurance businesses; reinsurance business relating to the foregoing; fund investment businesses authorized by laws, regulations or the State Council; and agency business, consulting business and provision of services, in each case relating to insurance of the person.

The following is a summary of information relating to our share capital, based upon provisions of our articles of association and the PRC company law. You should refer to the text of our articles of association and to the texts of applicable laws and regulations for further information.

Our share capital consists of domesticA shares and H shares, including the H shares represented by ADSs. They are all ordinary shares in our share capital. The par value of both our domesticA shares and H shares is RMB 1.00 per share. DomesticA shares are the RMB ordinary shares that are listed on the SSE, and may only be subscribed for by, and traded among, legal or natural persons of the PRC and certain qualified foreign institutional investors, and must be subscribed for and traded in Renminbi. We must pay all dividends on domesticA shares in Renminbi. H shares are “overseas listed foreign-invested shares” that have been admitted for listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the par value of which is denominated in Renminbi, and that are subscribed for and traded in Hong Kong dollars by and among investors of Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and any country other than the PRC. H shares may also be listed on a stock exchange in the United States in the form of American depositary shares evidenced by American depositary receipts.

Holders of domesticA shares and H shares are deemed to be shareholders of different classes for various matters which affect their respective interests. For instance, if we propose an increase in domesticA shares, holders of H shares will be entitled to vote on that proposal as a separate class. See “—Voting Rights and Shareholders’ Meetings”.

As of the date of this annual report, our total share capital consisted of 7,441,175,000 H20,823,530,000 A shares and 19,323,530,000 domestic7,441,175,000 H shares.

Our global offering in 2003 consisted solely of an offering of H shares and ADSs representing H shares. Consequently, the following discussion primarily concerns H shares and the rights of holders of H shares. The holders of ADSs will not be treated as our shareholders and will be required to surrender their ADSs for cancellation and withdrawal from the depositary facility in which the H shares are held in order to exercise rights as holders of H shares. The depositary agreed, so far as it is practical, to vote or cause to be voted the amount of H shares represented by ADSs in accordance with the non-discretionary written instructions of the holders of such ADSs.

Sources of Shareholders’ Rights

The primary sources of shareholders’ rights are the PRC company law, our articles of association, Special Rules applicable to overseas listed joint stock companies promulgated by the State Council, or Special Rules, relevant CSRC regulations, the Shanghai Stock Exchange Listing Rules, and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules that, among other things, impose certain standards of conduct, fairness and disclosure on us, our directors and CLIC, our controlling shareholder. The PRC company law was enacted in December 1993 and serves as the primary body of law regulating corporate action of companies organized in the PRC and its directors and shareholders.

Our articles of association have incorporated the provisions set forth in the Mandatory Provisions for the Articles of Association of Companies Listed Overseas, or the Mandatory Provisions, adopted in 1994 pursuant to the requirements of the China Securities Regulatory Commission.CSRC and the provisions set forth in the Guidelines on the Articles of Association of Listed Companies, or the Guidelines, as amended in 2006 by the CSRC. Any amendment to those provisions will only become effective after approval by the relevant governmental department authorized by the State Council and the China Securities Regulatory Commission.CSRC. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules require a number of provisions in addition to the Mandatory Provisions to be included in our articles of association.

The listing agreement between us andAccording to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, or theHKSE Listing Agreement, provides thatRules, we may not amend certain provisions of our articles of association that have been mandated by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. These provisions include, among others:

 

varying the rights of existing classes of shares;

 

voting rights;

 

our power to purchase our own shares;

 

rights of minority shareholders; and

 

liquidation procedures.

In addition, upon the listing of the H shares and for so long as the H shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, we will be subject to the relevant ordinances, rules and regulations applicable to companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, including, among other things, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules, the Securities and Futures Ordinance and the Hong Kong Codes on Takeovers and Mergers and Share Repurchases.

Unless otherwise specified, all rights, obligations and protections discussed below are derived from our articles of association and the PRC company law.

Enforceability of Shareholders’ Rights

Enforceability of our shareholders’ rights may be limited.

In accordance with the rules applicable to Chinese overseas listed companies, our articles of association provide that, with certain limited exceptions, all disputes or claims based on our articles of association, the PRC company law or other relevant laws or administrative rules, and concerning matters between holders of H shares and holders of domesticA shares, us, or our directors, supervisors, president, vice presidents or other senior officers, must be submitted for arbitration at either the China International Economic

and Trade Arbitration Commission or the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre.Center. If an applicant chooses to have the dispute arbitrated at the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre,Center, either party may request that venue be changed to Shenzhen, a city in mainland China near Hong Kong. The governing law for the above-mentioned disputes or claims is Chinese law unless otherwise provided by Chinese law. Our articles of association provide that any such arbitration will be final and conclusive.

In June 1999, an arrangement was made between the People’s Courts of the PRC and the courts of Hong Kong for mutual enforcement of arbitration rewards rendered in the PRC and Hong Kong according to their respective laws. This arrangement was approved by the Supreme Court of the PRC and the Hong Kong Legislative Council and became effective on February 1, 2000.

There has not been any published report of judicial enforcement in the PRC by H shareholders of their rights under charter documents of PRC joint stock companies or the PRC company law or in the application or interpretation of the PRC or Hong Kong regulatory provisions applicable to PRC joint stock companies.

The newly amended PRC company law allows shareholders to sue, on behalf of the corporation, against persons, including corporate officers, directors, who have allegedly wronged the corporation,

where the corporation itself has failed to enforce such claim against such persons directly. Class action lawsuits based on violations of securities laws are generally not available.

We are subject to the Hong Kong Exchange Listing Rules, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Ordinance, or Securities and Futures Ordinance, and the Hong Kong Codes on Takeovers and Mergers and Share Repurchases. However, holders of H shares will not be able to bring actions on the basis of violations of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules and must instead rely on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange to enforce its rules. The Hong Kong Codes on Takeovers and Mergers and Share Repurchases do not have the force of law and are only standards of commercial conduct considered acceptable for takeover and merger transactions and share repurchases in Hong Kong as established by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong and the securities and futures industry in Hong Kong. The Securities and Futures Ordinance establishes various obligations in relation to disclosure of shareholders’ interests in Hong Kong listed companies, the violation of which is subject to prosecution by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong.

See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the People’s Republic of China—The laws in China differ from the laws in the United States and may afford less protection to our minority shareholders” and “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the People’s Republic of China—You may experience difficulties in effecting service of legal process, enforcing foreign judgments or bringing original actions in the PRC based on U.S. or other foreign laws against us, our management and some of the experts named in the annual report”.

Dividends

Our board of directors may propose dividend distributions at any time. A distribution of dividends for any fiscal year is subject to shareholders’ approval. Dividends may be distributed in the form of cash or shares. The H shares will rank equally with domesticA shares with regard to dividend rights. A distribution of shares must be approved by special resolution of the shareholders.

We may only distribute dividends after allowance has been made for:

 

recovery of accumulated losses, if any;

allocations to the statutory common reserve fund equivalent to 10% of our after-tax income, as determined under PRC GAAP; and

 

allocations to the statutory common welfare fund (the minimum and maximum aggregate allocations to the statutory common welfare fund being equivalent to 5% and 10%, respectively, of our after-tax income, as determined under PRC GAAP); and

allocations to a discretionary common reserve fund as approved by the shareholders in a shareholders’ meeting.

Under Chinese law, dividends may be paid only out of distributable profits. Distributable profits means our after-tax profits as determined under PRC GAAP or HKFRS, whichever is lower, less any recovery of accumulated losses and allocations to statutory funds that we are required to make. Any distributable profits that are not distributed in a given year are retained and available for distribution in subsequent years. However, we will ordinarily not pay any dividends in a year when we do not have any distributable profits.

Payment of dividends by us is also regulated by the PRC insurance law. If we do not meet the minimum solvency levelmargin required by the CIRC, we will be prohibited from paying dividends. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulation and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Solvency requirements”.

Our articles of association require us to appoint, on behalf of the holders of H shares, a receiving agent that is registered as a trust corporation under the Trustee Ordinance of Hong Kong to receive dividends declared by us in respect of the H shares on behalf of such shareholders. Our articles of association require that cash dividends in respect of H shares be declared in Renminbi and paid by us in Hong Kong dollars. The depositary will convert these proceeds into U.S. dollars and will remit the converted proceeds to holders of our ADSs.

We anticipate that our controlling shareholder, CLIC, may incur future operating losses arising in part from the runoff of policies retained by it in connection with the restructuring. Dividends received from us may become one of CLIC’s principal means of funding these losses. Although we believe that the reserves held by CLIC and other financial resources available to it will fund substantially all of any future operating shortfalls arising out of these policies, which should reduce CLIC’s reliance on dividends from us, subject to the relevant provisions of the PRC company law and our articles of association as described above and in “Item 8. Financial Information—Consolidated Financial Statements and Other Financial Information—Policy on Dividend Distributions”, CLIC may seek to increase the amount of dividends we pay in order to satisfy its cash flow requirements. See “Item 3. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Relating to the Restructuring”.

Dividend payments may be subject to Chinese withholding tax. See “—Taxation—The People’s Republic of China—Taxation of Dividends”.

Voting Rights and Shareholders’ Meetings

Our board of directors will convene a shareholders’ annual general meeting once every year within six months from the end of the preceding fiscal year. Our board of directors must convene an extraordinary general meeting within two months of the occurrence of any of the following events:

 

where the number of directors is less than the number stipulated in the PRC company law or two-thirds of the number specified in our articles of association;

 

where our unrecovered losses reach one-third of the total amount of our share capital;

where shareholders, individually or jointly, holding 10% or more of our issued and outstanding voting shares so request in writing; or

 

whenever our board of directors deems necessary or our board of supervisors so requests.requests; or

any other event as maybe provided by applicable laws, rules, regulations or our articles of association.

All shareholders’ meetings must be convened by our board of directors by written notice given to shareholders not less than 45 days before the meeting. Shareholders holding at least one-half of our total voting shares will constitute a quorum for a shareholders’ meeting. If a quorum is not reached, we are required to notify our shareholders within five days by public announcement of the agenda, the date and the venue of the adjourned meeting. After the notice, the board of directors may conduct the shareholders’ meeting. The accidental omission by us to give notice of a meeting to, or the non-receipt of notice of a meeting by, a shareholder will not invalidate the proceedings at that shareholders’ meeting.

Shareholders at meetings have the power, among other matters, to approve or reject our profit distribution plans, annual budget, financial statements, increases or decreases in share capital, issuances of debentures, mergers, liquidation, any equity-based incentive plan and any amendment to our articles of association. In addition, the rights of a class of shareholders may not be modified or abrogated, unless approved by a special resolution of shareholders at a general shareholders’ meeting and by a special resolution of shareholders of that class of shares at a separate meeting. Our articles of association enumerate various amendments which would be deemed to be a modification or abrogation of the rights of a class of shareholders, including, among others, increasing or decreasing the number of shares of a class disproportionate to increases or decreases of other classes of shares, removing or reducing rights to receive dividends in a particular currency or creating shares with voting or equity rights superior to those of shares of that class. There are no restrictions under PRC law or our articles of association on the ability of investors that are not Chinese residents to hold H shares and exercise voting rights, except that the prior approval of the CIRC is required in respect of any acquisition which results in the acquirer holding more than 10% of the outstanding share capital of our company and the other restrictions set out under “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Restriction of ownership in joint stock insurance companies”.

Each of our ordinary shares, whether it be a domestican A share or an H share, is entitled to one vote on all matters submitted for vote at all shareholders’ meetings, except for meetings of a special class of shareholders where only holders of shares of the affected class are entitled to vote on the basis of one vote per share of the affected class.

Shareholders are entitled to attend and vote at meetings either in person or by proxy. Proxies must be in writing and deposited at our legal address or such other place as is specified in the meeting notice, not less than 24 hours before the time for holding the meeting at which the proxy proposes to vote or the time appointed for the passing of the relevant resolution.

Resolutions on any of the following matters must be approved by more than two-thirds of the voting rights held by shareholders who are present in person or by proxy:

 

an increase or decrease in our share capital or the issuance of shares, warrants, debentures and other similar securities;

our division, merger, dissolution or liquidation (shareholders who object to a proposed merger are entitled to demand that either we or the shareholders who approved the merger purchase their shares at a fair price);

 

amendments to our articles of association;

 

amendment of shareholders’ rights of any class of shares; and

 

any equity-based incentive plan; and

any other matters as provided under applicable laws or regulations or determined by a majority of shareholders at a general meeting to have a material impact on us and should be approved by two-thirds of the voting rights.

All other actions taken by the shareholders will be approved by a majority of the voting rights held by shareholders who are present in person or by proxy at the shareholders’ meeting.

Any shareholder resolution that is in violation of any laws or regulations of China or the articles of association will be null and void.

Liquidation Rights

We are organized as a joint stock company with limited liability of indefinite duration, but must renew our business license annuallypass the annual inspection with the SAIC. In the event of our liquidation, the H shares will rank equally with the domesticA shares, and payment of debts out of our remaining assets shall be made in the order of priority prescribed by applicable laws and regulations or, if no such standards exist, in accordance with such procedures as the liquidation committee that has been appointed either by us or the People’s Courts of China may consider to be fair and reasonable. After payment of debts, we shall distribute the remaining property to shareholders in proportion to the number of shares they hold.

Information Rights

Our shareholders may, without charge, inspect copies of the minutes of the shareholders’ general meetings during our business hours. Shareholders may also request copies of such minutes from us, and we must deliver those copies to the relevant shareholders within seven days of receipt of such reasonable fees as we may require.

Our fiscal year is the calendar year ending December 31. We must send to holders of H shares, not less than 21 days before the date of the shareholders’ annual general meeting, our audited financial statements for each fiscal year, together with the auditor’s report as required by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules relating to that fiscal year. These and any interim financial statements must be prepared in accordance with PRC accounting standards and, for so long as our H shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, in accordance with either Hong Kong accounting standards or HKFRS. The financial statements must be approved by a majority of our shareholders who are present in person or by proxy at the annual general meeting.

The Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules also require us to prepare for the first six months of each fiscal year an interim report no later than sixty days after the end of such period. Further, a preliminary announcement of such interim report is required to be published in newspapers on the next business day after such report is approved by our board of directors. A copy of such interim report is also required to be sent to every shareholder as soon as reasonably practicable after such publication.

Under

According to the HKSE Listing Agreement,Rules, we are required to keep the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, our shareholders and other holders of our listed securities informed as soon as reasonably practicable of any information relating to us and our subsidiaries, including information on any major new developments that is not public information, which:

 

is necessary to enable them and the public to appraise the position of us and our subsidiaries;

 

is necessary to avoid the establishment of a false market in our securities; and

 

might reasonably be expected to affect materially market activity in, and the price of, our securities.

We are also required under the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules to disclose to our shareholders details of various acquisitions or disposals of assets and other transactions (including transactions with controlling shareholders).

Restrictions on Transferability and the Share Register

Unless otherwise permitted by relevant PRC rules or regulations or approved by relevant PRC authorities, H shares may be traded only among investors who are legal or natural persons resident outside of China, and may not be sold to investors resident within the PRC. Under our articles of association, any proposed sale by a PRC shareholder of its domestic shares to persons resident outside China who will receive H shares upon the sale must be approved by two-thirds of our domestic shareholders and H shareholders at duly convened meetings of domestic shareholders and H shareholders held separately and at a duly convened joint meeting of domestic shareholders and H shareholders. Any sale is also subject to approval by the Ministry of Finance, the China Securities Regulatory Commission and other relevant governmental authorities. There are no restrictions under PRC law or our articles of association on the ability of investors who are not PRC residents to hold H shares.

We are required to keep a register of our shareholders, which shall be comprised of various parts, including one part which is to be maintained in Hong Kong in relation to holders of H shares. Shareholders have the right to inspect and, for a reasonable charge, to copy the share register. No transfers of ordinary shares will be recorded in our share register within thirty days prior to the date of a shareholders’ general meeting or within five days prior to the record date established for the purpose of distributing a dividend.

We have appointed Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited to act as the registrar of our H shares. This registrar maintains our register of holders of H shares at our offices in Hong Kong and enters transfers of H shares in such register upon the presentation of the documents described above.

Increases in Share Capital

Under our articles of association, issuance of new securities, including ordinary shares, securities convertible into ordinary shares, options, warrants or similar rights to subscribe for any ordinary shares or convertible securities, must be approved by two-thirds of all shareholders. In addition, the issuance of domesticA shares or H shares must be approved by two-thirds of the class of domestic shares or H shares, as the case may be, unless the number of shares to be issued shall not exceed 20% of the number of shares of the same class then outstanding in any 12-month period.

At the shareholders’ annual shareholders’general meeting held in 2005, a special resolution was passed to authorize our board of directors to issue shares having a nominal amount of no more than 20% of each of the aggregate nominal amount of our domestic shares and H shares in issue as at June 16, 2005 by the conclusion of next annual shareholder’s meeting, June 15, 2006, or the date on which this resolution was otherwise revised or revoked, whichever is earlier, and to amend the articles of association accordingly. As of the date of this annual report, no such new shares have been issued.

The board of directors has proposed a special resolution to be considered at the annual shareholders’ meeting to be held in 2006, a special resolution is to bewas passed to authorize our board of directors to issue shares having a nominal amount of no more than 20% of each of the aggregate nominal amount of our domestic shares and H shares in issue as at June 16, 2006 by the conclusion of next annual shareholder’s meeting, June 15,12, 2007, or the date on which this resolution was otherwise revised or revoked, whichever is earlier,the earliest, and to amend the articles of association accordingly.

The board of directors has proposed a special resolution to be considered at the shareholders’ annual general meeting to be held in 2007, a special resolution is to be passed to authorize our board of directors to issue additional shares having a nominal amount of no more than 20% of each of the aggregate nominal amount of our domestic shares and H shares in issue as at June 12, 2007 by the conclusion of next annual shareholder’s meeting, June 11, 2008, or the date on which this resolution was otherwise revised or revoked, whichever is the earliest, and to amend the articles of association accordingly. Our board of directors has no immediate plan to issue any new shares.

Shareholders are not liable to make any further contribution to the share capital other than according to the terms that were agreed upon by the subscriber of the relevant shares at the time of subscription. New issues of shares must also be approved by relevant Chinese authorities.

Decreases in Share Capital and Repurchases

We may reduce our registered share capital only upon obtaining the approval of at least two-thirds of our shareholders and, in certain circumstances, of relevant Chinese authorities. The number of H shares that may be repurchased is subject to the Hong Kong Codes on Takeovers and Mergers and Share Repurchases.

Restrictions on Ownership

You may not individually or with your nominees or other persons acting in concert own more than 20% of our share capital without the prior approval of the CIRC. Other restrictions on ownership of our shares apply. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulation and Related Matters—Insurance Company Regulation—Restriction of ownership in joint stock insurance companies”.

Restrictions on Large or Controlling Shareholders

Our articles of association define a controlling shareholder as any person who acting alone or in concert with others:

 

is in a position to elect more than one-half of the board of directors;

 

has the power to exercise, or to control the exercise of, 30% or more of our voting rights;

 

holds 30% or more of our issued and outstanding shares; or

 

has de facto control of us in any other way.

As of the date of this annual report, CLIC, a wholly state-owned enterprise, is our only controlling shareholder.

Our articles of association provide that, in addition to any obligation imposed by laws and administrative regulations or required by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Rules, a controlling shareholder shall not exercise its voting rights in a manner prejudicial to the interests of other shareholders:

 

to relieve a director or supervisor from his or her duty to act honestly in our best interests;

to approve the appropriation by a director or supervisor, for his or her own benefit or for the benefit of any other person, of our assets in any way, including without limitation opportunities which may be advantageous to us; or

 

to approve the appropriation by a director or supervisor, for his or her own benefit or for the benefit of another person, of the individual rights of other shareholders, including without limitation rights to distributions and voting rights (except in accordance with a restructuring of our company which has been submitted for approval by the shareholders at a general meeting in accordance with our articles of association).

Our articles of association also provide that a controlling shareholder or an actual controlling person shall not exploit its affiliated relation in a manner prejudicial to the interest of our company, and shall be liable for any losses suffered by us as a result thereof. The controlling shareholder or actual controlling person shall have fiduciary duties to both our company and our public shareholders. The controlling shareholder shall exercise its rights as a capital contributor of our company in strict compliance with the law. The controlling shareholder shall not cause any damage to the lawful rights and interest of our company and our public shareholders through, among others, any connected transactions, profit distribution, asset restructuring, external investment, fund appropriation and loan guarantee, or impair the interest of our company and our public shareholders through its controlling position.

Board of Directors

Our directors are elected by our shareholders at shareholders’ general meetings. Because our domesticA shares and H shares do not have cumulative voting rights, a holder of a majority of our ordinary shares is able to elect all of the directors. Directors are elected for a term of three years and may serve consecutive terms if re-elected.

Article 23 of Special Regulations on the Overseas Offering and Listing of Shares by Joint Stock Limited Companies provides that directors, supervisors, and senior officers of a company owe duties of honesty, care and diligence to their company.

Our articles of association provide that, in exercising their duties and powers, our directors, supervisors and senior officers will act with the care, diligence and skills that are expected of a reasonable person under similar circumstances, observe fiduciary principles and not place themselves in a situation where their interests conflict with the duties they are charged with performing. In addition to these fiduciary duties to our company, each director, supervisor and officer is obligated to each shareholder:

 

to act honestly in our company’s best interests;

 

not to exploit corporate assets for personal gains; and

 

not to expropriate the rights of our shareholders.

If directors, supervisors or officers are found to have misappropriated our company’s assets or misused their position for personal gain, the PRC company law provides that any misappropriated or misused property be returned and any illegal proceeds received by the supervisor be confiscated, and allows us to impose punishment on them. In serious cases, criminal liability may also be imposed. According to our articles of association, our shareholders cannotmay bring a derivative suit against any director, supervisor or officer who has breached his fiduciary duties, and mostduties. Most disputes between H shareholders and directors, supervisors and officers are required to be resolved by final and binding arbitration.

Moreover, our articles of association provide that our directors, supervisors and senior officers must not enter into transactions or contracts with us or agree to make corporate loans to any persons or provide guarantees for loans of any shareholder or any other person with corporate assets. In particular, our directors, supervisors and senior officers have obligations to disclose to the board of directors any direct or indirect material interest they may have in any contracts or transactions with us. They may not vote on any contracts, transactions or arrangements in which they have any material interest. Further, we may not make loans or provide guarantees to directors, supervisors or senior officers, unless such loans or guarantees are approved at a shareholders’ meeting or made in the ordinary course of business. All decisions relating to the compensation of directors are made at shareholders’ meetings.

There are no provisions under our articles of association or PRC law which relate to:

 

the retirement or non-retirement of directors under any age limit requirement;

 

directors’ borrowing power; or

 

number of shares required for directors’ qualification.

Subject to all relevant laws and administrative regulations, the shareholders may remove any director before the expiration of his or her term of office by a majority vote of the shareholders present in

person or by proxy at shareholders’ general meetings. A director, supervisor, chief executive officer, chief financial officer, president, vice president or other senior officer may be relieved of liability for a specific breach of his or her duties by the consent of shareholders so long as specified conditions are met.

Board of Supervisors

Our board of supervisors consists of five supervisors. At least one memberone-third of our board of supervisors must be an employee representativerepresentatives elected by our employees. The remaining members must be elected by our shareholders in a general meeting. One member of our board of supervisors is designated as the chairman. Members of the board of supervisors may not serve as director, president, vice president or financial controllerother senior management of our company. The term of office for our supervisors is three years, which is renewable upon re-election.

The primary duty of the board of supervisors is to monitor our financial matters and management. The board of supervisors’ powers are generally limited to carrying out investigations and reporting to shareholders, the China Securities Regulatory Commission and other relevant governmental authorities having jurisdiction over our affairs and to convening shareholders’ extraordinary general meetings. Reasonable expenses incurred by the board of supervisors in carrying out its duties will be paid by us.

Our supervisors owe fiduciary duties to our company and our shareholders. Please see the discussion of the duties and the nature of recourse our shareholders may have against supervisors in breach of these duties in the subsection entitled “—Board of Directors”.

The board of supervisors is accountable, and will report, to the shareholders at the shareholders’ general meetings.

Certain Differences Between PRC Company Law and Delaware Corporate Law

The PRC company law and other laws applicable to us differ in a number of respects from laws generally applicable to United States corporations and their shareholders. The description set forth below includes a summary of certain provisions of the PRC company law, Special Rules, and Mandatory Provisions and the Guidelines applicable to overseascompanies listed companies,both in the PRC and overseas, such as us, which differ from provisions of the corporate law of the State of Delaware.

General

We are a PRC joint stock company, which is a corporate entity organized under the PRC company law. Under the PRC company law, the registered capital of a joint stock company is divided into shares of equal par value. These shares are commonly called domestic ordinary shares. Each share of a joint stock company ranks equally with all other shares in its class as to voting rights (except for specified class voting rights) and rights to dividends and other distributions. Upon receiving approval from the relevant authorities, a joint stock company may offer its shares for sale to the public and seek to be listed on a stock exchange. The State Council may formulate separate regulations for the issuance of other classes of shares, including H shares. All of our issued shares are fully paid and nonassessable. Holders of H shares may transfer their shares without the approval of other shareholders. Among other things, a joint stock company must have (1) not fewer than two, and not more than 200, initial shareholders, (2) minimum paid-in capital of not less than RMB 5 million, (3) a board of directors of not fewer than five and not more than 19 members and (4) a board of supervisors of not fewer than three members.

The shareholders’ meeting of a joint stock company is the highest authority of the company and exercises the powers of the company with respect to significant matters, subject to applicable law and the

articles of association of the company. The business of a joint stock company is under the overall management of a board of directors, subject to the PRC company law, other applicable laws and regulations (which in our case include the PRC insurance law and regulations), the company’s articles of association and duly adopted resolutions of its shareholders. The day-to-day operations of a joint stock company are under the direction of its general manager or president, subject to the applicable laws and regulations, the company’s articles of association and duly adopted resolutions of the directors and shareholders. In addition, the PRC company law provides for the establishment of a board of supervisors for each joint stock company. The supervisors perform and exercise the functions and powers described below, including examination of the joint stock company’s affairs and monitoring the actions of the directors and officers of the company. The directors, supervisors and officers are not required to hold any qualifying shares in the joint stock company.

A joint stock company may be liquidated involuntarily due to insolvency or voluntarily in accordance with the terms of its articles of association or duly adopted shareholders’ resolutions. The property of a joint stock company remaining after full payment of its liquidation expenses, wages, labor insurance premiums of its employees and statutory compensations, outstanding taxes and debts, is distributed in proportion to the holdings of its shareholders.

Meetings of shareholders

Under PRC law, shareholders are given the power to approve specified matters. See “—Voting Rights and Shareholders’ Meetings”. In addition, the Mandatory Provisions provide that at shareholders’ meetings shareholders are entitled to consider any proposals made by shareholders holding in the aggregate at least 5%3% of voting power over the company’s shares.

Under Delaware law, the business and affairs of a Delaware corporation are, in general, managed by or under the direction of its board of directors. Only certain fundamental matters regarding the corporation are reserved by statute to be exercised by the shareholders. These matters include, in general, the election and removal of directors, the retention and dismissal of the corporation’s independent auditors, mergers and other business combinations involving the corporation, the amendment of the corporation’s certificate of incorporation and a liquidation and dissolution of the corporation.

Shareholders’ approval by written consent

PRC law does not provide shareholders of overseas joint stock listed companies with rights to approve corporate matters by written consent. Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation, any action which is required or permitted to be taken at any shareholders’ meeting may be taken without a meeting, subject to various conditions.

Amendments of articles of association

Under PRC law, an amendment of the articles of association must be approved by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of shareholders attending a shareholders’ meeting. Under the Mandatory Provisions, the proposal to amend the articles is required to be approved by the board of directors, as well as the shareholders. Amendments with respect to the Mandatory Provisions only become effective after approval by the relevant governmental department authorized by the State Council and the China Securities Regulatory Commission.

Under Delaware law, board as well as shareholder approval are required for any amendment to the certificate of incorporation, but no governmental approval is generally required.

Powers and responsibilities of directors

Under PRC law, the board of directors is responsible for specified actions, including the following functions and powers of a joint stock company:

 

convening shareholders’ meetings and reporting its work to shareholders at these meetings;

 

implementing shareholders’ resolutions;

 

determining the company’s business plans and investment proposals;

 

formulating the company’s annual financial budgets and final accounts;

 

formulating the company’s profit distribution plans and loss recovery plans;

 

formulating proposals for the increase or decrease in the company’s registered capital and the issue of debentures;

 

formulating major acquisition and disposal plans and plans for the merger, division or dissolution of the company;

 

deciding on the company’s internal management structure and formulating its basic management system; and

 

appointing or removing the company’s principal executive officers; appointing and removing other senior officers based on the recommendation of the principal executive officer and deciding on the remuneration of the senior officers.

In addition, the Mandatory Provisions provide that the board has the authority to formulate any proposal to amend the articles of association and to exercise any other power conferred by a decision of the shareholders’ meeting.

Under Delaware law, the business and affairs of a Delaware corporation are managed by or under the direction of its board of directors. Their powers include fixing the remuneration of directors, except as otherwise provided by statute or in the certificate of incorporation or by-laws of the corporation.

Powers and responsibilities of supervisors

Under PRC law, a PRC joint stock company must have a board of supervisors consisting of shareholder representatives and one or more employee representatives. Supervisors attend board meetings as non-voting observers. Directors, officers and company personnel in charge of financial matters may not serve as supervisors. The supervisors perform and exercise the following functions and powers:

 

examining the company’s financial affairs;

 

monitoring compliance with laws, regulations, the articles of association of the company and the shareholders resolutions by the directors and officers of the company; and suggesting removing the directors and officers who violate these laws and regulations;

requiring corrective action from directors and officers whose actions are contrary to the interests of the company;

 

proposing the holding of extraordinary shareholders’ meetings;

 

proposing new items to be inserted in the agenda of the shareholders’ meeting.

 

bringing lawsuits against directors or members of senior management, if they violate laws, regulations or articles of association of the company; and

 

exercising and performing other powers and functions provided for in the company’s articles of association.

In addition, the Mandatory Provisions provide that supervisors of overseas listed joint stock companies are entitled to retain auditors in the name of the company to examine any financial or business reports or profit distribution proposals to be submitted by the directors to a meeting of the shareholders which the supervisors consider questionable, and negotiate or take legal action against any director or the directors in the name of the company. The fees and expenses of attorneys and other professionals incurred by the supervisors in connection with the discharge of their duties are to be paid by the company.

Delaware law makes no provision for a comparable corporate institution.

Duties of directors, supervisors and officers

Under PRC law, directors, supervisors and officers of a joint stock company are required to comply with relevant laws and regulations and the company’s articles of association. A director, supervisor or officer who contravenes any law, regulation or the company’s articles of association in the performance of his duties shall be personally liable to the company for any loss incurred by the company. Directors, supervisors and officers are required to carry out their duties honestly diligently and protect the interests of the company. They are also under a duty of confidentiality to the company and prohibited from divulging confidential information concerning the company, except as permitted by relevant laws and regulations or by a decision of a shareholders’ meeting. They may not use their position and authority in the company to seek personal gain. Directors and officers may not directly or indirectly engage in the same business as the company or in any other business detrimental to the interests of the company, and they are required to forfeit any profits from these activities to the company.

Under Delaware law, the business and affairs of a corporation are managed by or under the direction of its board of directors. In exercising their powers, directors are charged with a fiduciary duty of care to protect the interests of the corporation and a fiduciary duty of loyalty to act in the best interests of its shareholders.

Limitations on transactions with interested directors, supervisors and officers

Under PRC law, directors and officers of a joint stock company may not enter into any contracts or transactions with the company unless permitted by the articles of association or approved by the shareholders. Under PRC law, a company may not provide any guarantees to shareholders or any de facto control person of the company unless such guarantees are approved by a majority of shareholders present at the shareholders’ meeting, excluding the shareholder who will be provided such guarantees. Under the Mandatory Provisions, a director, supervisor or officer is required to disclose to the board any transaction with the company in which he has a direct or indirect interest or in which there is a material conflict of interest between the company and himself. A director is not entitled to vote or be counted for

quorum purposes in any board decision on any such transaction. The company may set aside any interested transaction which did not comply with these requirements, unless the other party to such transaction was honestly unaware of the breach of obligations by the interested director, supervisor or officer. The company may not loan or provide any guarantees to directors, supervisors or officers (including persons related to them), except for the loans made in accordance with employment contracts approved by the shareholders, or unless the company’s business scope allows for the provision of loans and guarantees and such loans or guarantees are made under regular commercial terms.

Under Delaware law, an interested transaction is not voidable if (1) the material facts as to such interested director’s relationship or interests are disclosed or are known to the board of directors and the board in good faith authorizes the transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors, (2) such material facts are disclosed or are known to the shareholders entitled to vote on such transaction and the transaction is specifically approved in good faith by vote of the majority of shares entitled to vote thereon or (3) the transaction is fair as to the corporation as of the time it is authorized, approved or ratified. Under Delaware law, the interested director could be held liable for a transaction in which such a director derived an improper personal benefit.

Election and removal of directors

Under PRC law, the term of office of directors of a joint stock company must be specified in the articles of association, but may not exceed three years. Directors may be re-elected. No director may be removed from office without cause by shareholders prior to the expiration of the director’s term. PRC law does not contemplate a classified board of directors.

Under Delaware law, directors of a Delaware corporation can be removed from office with or without cause by the holders of a majority of shares then entitled to vote at an election of directors, provided that except where the certificate of incorporation of the Delaware corporation otherwise provides, a member of a classified board may be removed by shareholders only for cause, and in a corporation with cumulative voting, if less than all of the directors are removed, no director may be removed if the votes cast against the director’s removal is sufficient to elect the director if cumulatively voted at an election of directors.

Dividend payments

Under PRC law, proposals for distribution of profits are formulated by the board of directors and submitted for shareholder approval at a shareholders’ meeting. Dividends may be distributed in the form of cash or shares.

Under Delaware law, the board of directors of a Delaware corporation may declare dividends out of distributable earnings and profits without the approval of the shareholders.

Amalgamations and business combinations; appraisal rights

Under PRC law, amalgamations and divisions involving joint stock companies are required to be approved by shareholders voting at a shareholders’ meeting. The Mandatory Provisions require an amalgamation or division involving the company to be approved by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the votes present at the shareholders’ meeting called to consider the transaction. Any shareholder opposing such an amalgamation or business combination may request the company or the consenting shareholders to purchase its shares at a fair price. In addition, a sale of fixed assets having a value exceeding one-third of the total fixed assets of the company requires the approval of at least two thirds of shareholders at the meeting where a quarum presents.

Under Delaware law, with certain exceptions, a merger, consolidation or sale of all or substantially all the assets of a corporation must be approved by the board of directors and holders of a majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote. A shareholder objecting to the merger is entitled to appraisal rights pursuant to which the shareholder may receive cash in the amount of the fair value of the shares held by such shareholder (as determined by a court) in lieu of the consideration the shareholder would otherwise receive in the transaction.

Transactions with significant shareholders

Under Delaware law, a business combination between a Delaware corporation and an interested shareholder which takes place at any time during a period of three years commencing with the date the interested shareholder became an interested shareholder would need prior approval from the board of directors or a supermajority of the shareholders of the corporation, unless the corporation opted out of the relevant Delaware business combination statute. Under Delaware law, an interested shareholder of a corporation is someone who, together with its affiliates and associates, owns more than 15% of the outstanding common shares of the corporation. No such business combination statute or regulation applies to PRC joint stock companies.

Shareholders’ lawsuits

The PRC law provides that most disputes involving an H shareholder are to be resolved by final and binding arbitration.

Class actions and derivative actions generally are available to shareholders under Delaware law for, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty, corporate waste and actions not taken in accordance with applicable law.

Limitations on liability and indemnification of directors and officers

PRC law does not provide for any specific limitations on liability or indemnification of directors and officers.

Under Delaware law, a corporation may indemnify a director or officer of the corporation against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred in defense of an action, suit or proceeding by reason of such position if (1) the director or officer acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation and (2) with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, the director or officer had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.

Shareholders’ rights of inspection of corporate records

Under PRC law, shareholders are entitled to inspect the articles of association, register of shareholders, corporate bond counter foils, minutes of shareholders’ meetings and board meetings and reports of the financial accounts of the company. In addition, the Mandatory Provisions provide that, after paying reasonable fees, shareholders are entitled to inspect the company’s shareholder list, certain personal information on the directors, supervisors and officers, the company’s capital position and certain information regarding share repurchases conducted by the company during the most recent fiscal year.

Delaware law permits any shareholder of a Delaware corporation to inspect or obtain copies of or extracts from the corporation’s shareholder list and its other books and records for any purpose reasonably related to such person’s interest as a shareholder.

MATERIAL CONTRACTS

See “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions” for certain arrangements we have entered into with CLIC.CLIC, AMC and Guangdong Development Bank.

EXCHANGE CONTROLS

The Renminbi currently is not a freely convertible currency. The State Administration of Foreign Exchange, under the authority of the People’s Bank of China, controls the conversion of Renminbi into foreign currency. Until July 20, 2006,2005, the People’s Bank of China had been setting and publishing daily a base exchange rate with reference primarily to the supply and demand of Renminbi against the U.S. dollar in the market during the prior day. The People’s Bank of China also took into account other factors, such as the general conditions existing in the international foreign exchange markets. From 1994 to July 20, 2005, the official exchange rate for the conversion of Renminbi to U.S. dollars was generally stable. On July 21, 2005, the PRC government introduced a managed floating exchange rate system to allow the value of the Renminbi to fluctuate within a regulated band based on market supply and demand and by reference to a basket of currencies. On the same day, the value of the Renminbi appreciated by 2.0% against the U.S. dollar. Since then, the PRC government has made, and may in the future make, further adjustments to the exchange rate system. The People’s Bank of China announces the closing price of a foreign currency traded against the Renminbi in the inter-bank foreign exchange market after the closing of the market on each working day, and makes it the central parity for the trading against the Renminbi on the following working day.

Although PRC governmental policies were introduced in 1996 to reduce restrictions on the convertibility of Renminbi into foreign currency for current account items, conversion of Renminbi into foreign exchange for capital items, such as foreign direct investment, loans or securities, requires the approval of the State Administration for Foreign Exchange and other relevant authorities.

In the event of shortages of foreign currencies, we may be unable to convert sufficient Renminbi into foreign currency to meet our foreign currency obligations or to pay dividends in foreign currency.

Our H shares are traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. There are no limitations on the right of non-resident or foreign owners to remit dividends or capital including capital gains imposed by Hong Kong law.

TAXATION

The taxation of income and capital gains of holders of H shares or ADSs is subject to the laws and practices of China and of jurisdictions in which holders of H shares or ADSs are resident or otherwise subject to tax. The following summary of certain relevant taxation provisions is based on current law and practice, is subject to change and does not constitute legal or tax advice. The discussion does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in the H shares or ADSs. In particular, the discussion does not address the tax consequences under state, local and other laws, such as non-U.S. federal laws other than the laws of the PRC and Hong Kong. Accordingly, you should consult your own tax adviser regarding the tax consequences of an investment in the H shares and ADSs. The discussion is based upon laws and relevant interpretations in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change.

The People’s Republic of China

The following is a discussion of the material Chinese tax provisions relating to the ownership and disposition of H shares or ADSs held by the investors as capital assets. This discussion does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to specific investors in light of their particular circumstances or to other investors subject to special treatment under the tax laws of the PRC. This discussion is based on the tax laws of China as in effect on the date of this annual report, as well as on the Agreement between the United States of America and the People’s Republic of China for the Avoidance of Double Taxation, or the Treaty, all of which are subject to change (or changes in interpretation), possibly with retroactive effect.

This discussion does not address any aspects of Chinese taxation other than income taxation, capital taxation, stamp taxation and estate taxation. Prospective investors are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding Chinese and other tax consequences of owning and disposing of H shares.

Taxation of Dividends

Individual investors. According to the Provisional Regulations of China Concerning Questions of Taxation on Enterprises Experimenting with the Share System, or the Provisional Regulations, and the Individual Income Tax Law issued on September 10, 1980 and amended on October 31, 1993, August 30, 1999 and October 27, 2005, respectively dividends paid by Chinese companies are ordinarily subject to a Chinese withholding tax levied at a flat rate of 20%. For a foreign individual who is not a resident of China, the receipt of dividends from a company in China is normally subject to a withholding tax of 20% unless reduced by an applicable tax treaty. However, the Chinese State Administration of Taxation, or the SAT, the Chinese central government tax authority which succeeded the State Tax Bureau, issued, on July 21, 1993, a Notice of the Chinese State Administration of Taxation Concerning the Taxation of Gains on Transfer and Dividends from Share (Equities) Received by Foreign Investment Enterprises, Foreign Enterprises and Foreign Individuals, or the Tax Notice, which states that dividends paid by a Chinese company to individuals with respect to shares listed on an overseas stock exchange, or overseas shares, such as H shares, are temporarily not subject to Chinese withholding tax. The relevant tax authority has not collected withholding tax on dividend payments on overseas shares, including H shares and ADSs.

The Individual Income Tax Law of China, as amended, foreign individuals are subject to withholding tax on dividends paid by a Chinese company at a rate of 20%. However, in a letter dated July 26, 1994 to the former State Commission for Restructuring the

Economic System, the former State Council Securities Commission and the China Securities Regulatory Commission, the SAT reiterated the temporary tax exemption stated in the Tax Notice for dividends received from a Chinese company listed overseas. In the event that this letter is withdrawn, a 20% tax may be withheld on dividends in accordance with the Provisional Regulations and the Individual Income Tax Law. The withholding tax may be reduced under an applicable double taxation treaty. To date, the relevant tax authorities have not collected withholding tax from dividend payments on the shares exempted under the Tax Notice.

Enterprises.According to the Income Tax Law of China Concerning Foreign Investment Enterprises and Foreign Enterprises which shall be repealed on January 1, 2008, and the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, promulgated on March 16, 2007 and to be effective on January 1, 2008, dividends paid by Chinese companies to enterprises are ordinarily subject to a Chinese withholding tax levied at a flat rate of 20%. However, according to the Tax Notice, a foreign enterprise with no permanent establishment in China receiving dividends paid with respect to a Chinese company’s Overseas Shares will temporarily not be subject to the 20% withholding tax. If the withholding tax becomes applicable in the future, the rate could be reduced under an applicable double-taxation treaty.

Tax treaties.Investors who do not reside in China and reside in countries that have entered into treaties for the avoidance of double-taxation with China may be entitled to a reduction of the withholding

tax imposed on the payment of dividends to investors of the Company who do not reside in China. China currently has treaties for the avoidance of double-taxation with a number of other countries, which include Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Under the treaty between China and the United States, the China-US Treaty, China may tax a dividend paid by us to an Eligible U.S. Holder up to a maximum of 10% of the gross amount of the dividend. It is arguable that under the China-US Treaty, China may only tax gains from the sale or disposition by an Eligible U.S. Holder of H shares representing an interest in the Company of 25% or more, but this position is uncertain and the Chinese authorities may take a different position. For the purposes of this discussion, an “Eligible U.S. Holder” is a U.S. holder that (i) is a resident of the United States for the purposes of the China-US Treaty, (ii) does not maintain a permanent establishment or fixed base in China to which H shares are attributable and through which the beneficial owner carries on or has carried on business (or, in the case of an individual, performs or has performed independent personal services) and (iii) is not otherwise ineligible for benefits under the China-US Treaty with respect to income and gains derived in connection with the H shares.

Taxation of Capital Gains

The Tax Notice provides that gains realized by enterprises that are holders of Overseas Shares would, temporarily, not be subject to capital gains taxes. With respect to individual holders of H shares, the Provisions for Implementation of Individual Income Tax Law of China, as amended, or the Provisions, stipulated that income tax on gains realized on the sale of equity shares would be regulated in separate rules to be drafted by the Ministry of Finance. However, no income tax on gains realized on the sale of equity shares has been collected. Gains on the sale of shares by individuals were temporarily exempted from individual income tax pursuant to notices issued by the SAT dated February 9, 1996 and March 30, 1998. In the event this temporary exemption is withdrawn or ceases to be effective, individual holders of H shares may be subject to capital gains tax at the rate of 20% unless such tax is reduced or eliminated by an applicable double taxation treaty. If tax on capital gains from the sale of H shares become applicable, it is arguable that under the China-US Treaty, China may only tax gains from the sale or disposition by an Eligible U.S. Holder of H shares representing an interest in the Company of 25% or more, but this position is uncertain and the Chinese authorities may take a different position.

On November 18, 2000, the State Council issued a notice entitled “State Council Notice on the Income Tax Reduction for Interest and Other Income that Foreign Enterprises Derive in China”, or the Tax Reduction Notice. Under the Tax Reduction Notice, beginning January 1, 2001, enterprise income tax at a reduced 10% rate will apply to interest, rental, license fees and other income obtained in China by foreign enterprises without agencies or establishment in China, or by foreign enterprises without any substantive relationship with their agency or establishment in China. Therefore, if the exemption as described in the preceding paragraph does not apply or is not renewed, and the Tax Reduction Notice is found not to apply, a foreign enterprise shareholder may be subject to a 20% tax on capital gains, unless reduced by an applicable double-taxation treaty.

Additional Chinese Tax Considerations

Chinese stamp duty.Chinese stamp duty imposed on the transfer of shares of Chinese publicly traded companies under the Provisional Regulations should not apply to the acquisition and disposal by non-Chinese investors of H shares or ADSs outside of China by virtue of the Provisional Regulations of China Concerning Stamp Duty, which became effective on October 1, 1988 and which provide that Chinese stamp duty is imposed only on documents executed or received within China that are legally binding in China and are protected under Chinese law.

Estate tax.No liability for estate tax under Chinese law will arise from non-Chinese nationals holding H shares.

Hong Kong

The following is a discussion of the material Hong Kong tax provisions relating to the ownership and disposition of H shares or ADSs held by the investors as capital assets. This discussion does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to specific investors in light of their particular circumstances or to investors subject to special treatment under the tax laws of Hong Kong. This discussion is based on the tax laws of Hong Kong as in effect on the date of this annual report, which are subject to change (or changes in interpretation), possibly with retroactive effect. This discussion does not address any aspects of Hong Kong taxation other than income taxation, capital taxation, stamp taxation and estate taxation. Prospective investors are urged to consult their tax advisers regarding Hong Kong and other tax consequences of owning and disposing of H shares.

Tax Treaties

There is no relevant tax treaty in effect between Hong Kong and the United States.

Tax on Dividends

Under current practice, no tax is payable in Hong Kong in respect of dividends paid by us.

Tax on Gains from Sale

No tax is imposed in Hong Kong in respect of capital gains. However, trading gains from the sale of property by persons carrying on a trade, profession or business in Hong Kong where the gains are derived from or arise in Hong Kong from the trade, profession or business will be chargeable to Hong Kong profits tax, which is currently imposed at the rate of 17.5% on corporations and at a maximum rate of 16% on individuals. Certain categories of taxpayers are likely to be regarded as deriving trading gains rather than capital gains (for example, financial institutions, insurance companies and securities dealers) unless these taxpayers could prove that the investment securities are held for long-term investment purpose.

Trading gains from sales of H shares effected on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will be considered to be derived from or arise in Hong Kong. Liability for Hong Kong profits tax would thus arise in respect of trading gains from sales of H shares effected on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange realized by persons carrying on a business of trading or dealing in securities in Hong Kong.

There will be no liability for Hong Kong profits tax in respect of profits from the sale of ADSs, where purchases and sales of ADSs are effected outside Hong Kong, for example, on the New York Stock Exchange.

Stamp Duty

Hong Kong stamp duty, currently charged at thead valorem rate of 0.1% on the higher of the consideration for and the market value of the H shares, will be payable by the purchaser on every purchase and by the seller on every sale of H shares (in other words, a total of 0.2% is currently payable on a typical sale and purchase transaction involving H shares). In addition, a fixed duty of HK$5.00 is currently payable on any instrument of transfer of H shares. Where one of the parties is resident outside Hong Kong and does not pay the ad valorem duty due by it, the duty not paid will be assessed on the

instrument of transfer (if any) and will be payable by the transferee. If stamp duty is not paid on or before the due date, a penalty of up to ten times the duty payable may be imposed.

The withdrawal of H shares upon the surrender of ADRs, and the issuance of ADRs upon the deposit of H shares, will also attract stamp duty at the rate described above for sale and purchase transactions unless such withdrawal or deposit does not result in a passing of the beneficial interest in the H shares under Hong Kong law, in which case only a fixed duty of HK$5.00 is payable on the transfer. The issuance of the ADRs upon the deposit of H shares issued directly to the depositary of the ADSs, or for the account of the depositary, will not be subject to any stamp duty. No Hong Kong stamp duty is payable upon the transfer of ADSs outside Hong Kong.

Estate Duty

The Revenue (Abolition of Estate Duty) Ordinance 2005 came into effect on February 11, 2006 in Hong Kong. No Hong Kong estate duty is payable and no estate duty clearance papers are needed for an application for a grant of representation in respect of holders of H Shares whose deaths occur on or after February 11, 2006.

United States of America

The following is a discussion of the material United States federal income tax consequences relating to the purchase, ownership and disposition of H shares or ADSs by U.S. Holders (as defined below) that acquire the shares or ADSs for cash and hold them as capital assets. This discussion is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or “the Code”, Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all as in effect on the date hereof and all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. This discussion does not address all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to specific U.S. Holders in light of their particular circumstances or to U.S. Holders subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax law (such as banks, insurance companies, tax-exempt entities, retirement plans, regulated investment companies, partnerships, dealers in securities, brokers, U.S. expatriates, persons who have acquired our H shares or ADSs as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, or other integrated investment, persons who own, directly or by attribution, 10% or more of the combined

voting power of all classes of stock of China Life or persons that have a “functional currency” other than the U.S. dollar). This discussion does not address any U.S. state or local or any U.S. federal estate, gift or alternative minimum tax considerations.

As used in this discussion, the term “U.S.���U.S. Holder” means a beneficial owner of H shares or ADSs that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or of any state or political subdivision thereof or therein, including the District of Columbia or (iii) an estate or trust the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax regardless of the source thereof.

Investors are urged to consult their own tax advisers as to the particular tax considerations applicable to them relating to the purchase, ownership and disposition of H shares or ADSs in their individual circumstances, including the applicability of U.S. federal, state and local tax laws, any changes in applicable tax laws and any pending or proposed legislation or regulations.

Taxation of Dividends

Subject to the discussion below under “—Special Rules”, cash distributions with respect to the H shares or ADSs owned by a U.S. Holder will, upon receipt, be includible in the gross income of such U.S. Holder as ordinary dividend income to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as

determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. To the extent that the amount of any such cash distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits as so computed, it will be treated first as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such H shares or ADSs and, to the extent the amount of such cash distribution exceeds adjusted tax basis, will be treated as gain from the sale of such H shares or ADSs. Dividends paid by us generally will constitute income from sources outside the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes and will not be eligible for the “dividends received” deduction.

Dividends received by individuals during taxable years beginning on or before December 31, 2010 from “qualified foreign corporations” are generally subject to a maximum U.S. federal income tax rate of 15%, so long as certain holding period requirements are met. A non-U.S. corporation (other than a passive foreign investment company) generally will be considered to be a qualified foreign corporation (i) if it is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States which the Secretary of the Treasury determines is satisfactory for purposes of the relevant provision and which includes an exchange of information program or (ii) with respect to any dividend it pays on stock which is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. The Treasury Department has determined that the U.S.-China income tax treaty as currently in effect meets the requirements described in clause (i) above. In addition, the ADSs are readily tradable on the New York Stock Exchange, an established securities market in the United States. Each U.S. Holder that is an individual is urged to consult his or her tax adviser regarding the applicability of this reduced rate to dividends received with respect to the H shares or ADSs in his particular circumstance.

The U.S. dollar value of any distribution made by us in Hong Kong dollars (or other currency that is not the U.S. dollar, or a foreign currency), should be calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date of receipt of such distribution by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as depositary, in the case of ADSs, or by the U.S. Holder, in the case of H shares held directly by such U.S. Holder regardless of whether the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) so received are converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt. If the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) so received are converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, such U.S. Holder generally should not recognize foreign currency gain or loss on such conversion. If the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) are not converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, such U.S. Holder will have a basis in the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) equal to their U.S. dollar value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss on a subsequent conversion or other disposition of the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) generally will be treated as ordinary income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.

As described above under “—The People’s Republic of China—Taxation of Dividends”, under current practice, Chinese withholding tax will not be collected from dividends paid with respect to overseas shares such as H shares and ADSs. If, in the future, Chinese withholding tax were to be collected from dividends paid on H shares or ADSs, a U.S. Holder should be entitled, at its option, to either a deduction or a tax credit for the amount paid or withheld. There are significant and complex limitations that apply to foreign tax credits. The availability of the foreign tax credit and the application of the limitations on the credit are fact specific and U.S. Holders are urged to consult their own U.S. tax advisers with respect to foreign tax credit considerations in their individual circumstances.

Sale or other Disposition of H Shares or ADSs

Subject to the discussion below under “—Special Rules”, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon a sale or other disposition of H shares or ADSs that it owns in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized from the sale or disposition and the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such H shares or ADSs. The gain or loss generally will be a

capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain (taxable at a reduced rate for individuals) or loss if, on the date of sale or disposition, such H shares or ADSs were held by the U.S. Holder for more than one year and will generally be U.S. source gain or loss. The claim of a deduction in respect of a capital loss may be subject to limitations.

A U.S. Holder that receives Hong Kong dollars (or other foreign currency) from the sale or disposition generally will realize an amount equal to the U.S. dollar value of the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) on the settlement date of the sale or disposition if (i) the U.S. Holder is a cash basis or electing accrual basis taxpayer and our H shares or ADSs, as the case may be, are treated as being “traded on an established securities market” for this purpose or (ii) the settlement date is the date of the sale or disposition. If the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) so received are converted into U.S. dollars on the settlement date, the U.S. Holder should not recognize foreign currency gain or loss on the conversion. If the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) so received are not converted into U.S. dollars on the settlement date, the U.S. Holder will have a basis in the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) equal to the U.S. dollar value on the settlement date. Any gain or loss on a subsequent conversion or other disposition of the Hong Kong dollars (or such other foreign currency) generally will be treated as ordinary income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. A U.S. Holder should consult its own tax adviser regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of receiving Hong Kong dollars (or other currency) from a sale or disposition of the H shares or ADSs in cases not described in this paragraph.

Special Rules

Related Person Insurance Income. Certain adverse U.S. income and tax reporting rules may apply to U.S. shareholders who, directly or indirectly, own stock of a non-U.S. corporation that earns “related person insurance income” (“RPII”), if 25% or more of the non-U.S. corporation’s direct or indirect shareholders are U.S. persons. RPII is generally defined as insurance income derived from the insurance (or reinsurance) of insureds who are U.S. shareholders in the non-U.S. corporation or who are related to such U.S. shareholders. If applicable, these rules would require U.S. Holders to include in taxable income each year their pro rata share of any RPII incurred by us for the year, regardless of whether such income is distributed, and also to file I.R.S. Form 5471, disclosing certain information regarding their direct or indirect ownership of China Life. Special rules apply for purposes of determining each U.S.

shareholder’s pro rata share of any RPII. For organizations that are otherwise exempt from U.S. federal income tax under section 501(a) of the Code, any such income would constitute “unrelated business taxable income.” These rules could also apply to convert some or all of the gain recognized from the sale or disposition of H shares or ADSs from capital gain to ordinary income and to require such gain to be reported on I.R.S. Form 5471.

Under a statutory exception, these rules do not apply if less than 20% of the non-U.S. corporation’s insurance income is RPII or if less than 25% of the non-U.S. corporation’s stock is owned by U.S. shareholders. Because CLIC holds 72.2%68.4% of our share capital, and because we do not offer or intend to offer our products and services in the United States, it is highly unlikely that the RPII rules will apply. If more of our shares are sold to the public in the future, it is possible that such rules could apply at a later date.

Passive Foreign Investment Company. In general, a non-U.S. corporation will be a passive foreign investment company, or a “PFIC”, if 75% or more of its gross income constitutes “passive���passive income” or 50% or more of its assets produce “passive income” or are held for the production of “passive income”.

For the purpose of determining whether a non-U.S. corporation is a PFIC, “passive income” is defined to include income of the kind which would be foreign personal holding company income under section 954(c) of the Code, and generally includes interest, dividends, annuities and other investment income. Passive income does not include interest income or dividends received from controlled subsidiaries or certain other related persons, to the extent properly allocable to income of such related person that is not passive income. In addition, the PFIC provisions specifically exclude from the definition of “passive income” any income “derived in the active conduct of an insurance business by a corporation which is predominantly engaged in an insurance business and which would be subject to tax under subchapter L if it were a domestic corporation”. This exception is intended to ensure that income derived by a bona fide insurance company is not treated as passive income. Thus, to the extent that income is attributable to financial reserves in excess of the reasonable needs of the insurance business, it may be treated as passive income.

We believe that we were in 2005,2006, and we anticipate that we will continue to be, predominantly engaged in an insurance business and we believe that we did not in 2005,2006, and will not, have financial reserves in excess of the reasonable needs of our insurance business. Accordingly, our income and assets should not be passive income and passive assets. As a result, we do not expect to be classified as a PFIC for any tax year. However, an actual determination of PFIC status is inherently factual in nature and cannot be made until the close of each applicable tax year and, accordingly, no assurances can be given that we will not become a PFIC at some point in the future.

In general, a U.S. shareholder of a PFIC is subject to a special tax and an interest charge at the time of the sale of (or receipt of an “excess distribution” with respect to) its shares in the PFIC. In general, a shareholder is treated as having received an “excess distribution” if the amount of the distribution was more than 125% of the average distribution with respect to its shares during the three preceding taxable years (or shorter period during which the taxpayer held the shares). The special tax is computed by assuming that the excess distribution or, in the case of a sale, the gain with respect to the shares was earned in equal portions throughout the holder’s period of ownership. The portion allocable to each year prior to the year of sale is taxed at the maximum marginal tax rate applicable for each such period. The interest charge is determined based on the applicable rate imposed on underpayments of U.S. federal income tax for the period. The special tax and the interest charge generally will not apply to a U.S. shareholder that validly makes a “qualified electing fund” election under section 1295 of the Code with respect to the shares of the PFIC. We do not intend to comply with the requirements necessary to permit a U.S. Holder to make such an election with respect to H shares or ADSs.

The above results may also be avoided if a “mark-to-market” election is available and a U.S. Holder validly makes such an election. If the election is made, such U.S. Holder generally will be required to take into account the difference, if any, between the fair market value of, and its adjusted tax basis in, its H shares or ADSs at the end of each taxable year as ordinary income or ordinary loss (to the extent of any net mark-to-market gain previously included in income), and to make corresponding adjustments to the tax basis of such H shares or ADSs. In addition, any gain from a sale or other disposition of H shares or ADSs will be treated as ordinary income, and any loss will be treated as ordinary loss (to the extent of any net mark-to-market gain previously included in income). A mark-to-market election is available to a U.S. Holder only if our H shares or ADSs are considered “marketable stock” for these purposes. Generally, stock will be considered marketable stock if it is “regularly traded” on a “qualified exchange” within the meaning of applicable U.S. Treasury regulations. A class of stock is regularly traded during any calendar year during which such class of stock is traded, other than inde minimis quantities, on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter. A non-U.S. securities exchange will constitute a qualified exchange if it is regulated or supervised by a governmental authority of the country in which the market is located and meets certain trading, listing, financial disclosure and other

requirements set forth in the Treasury Regulations. We do not know whether our H shares or ADSs will be treated as marketable stock for these purposes.

Reportable Transactions

U.S. Holders that participate in “reportable transactions” (as defined in Treasury Regulations) must attach to their federal income tax returns a disclosure statement on Form 8886. We urge U.S. Holders to consult their own tax advisers as to the possible obligation to file Form 8886 with respect to the ownership or disposition of any Hong Kong dollars (or other foreign currency) received as a dividend or as proceeds from the sale of H shares or ADSs, or any other aspect of the purchase, ownership or disposition of H shares or ADSs.

DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

Not applicable.

DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

You may read and copy documents referred to in this annual report on Form 20-F that have been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, at its public reference room located at 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms and their copy charges. The SEC also maintains a website athttp://www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy statements and other information regarding the registrations that file electronically with the SEC.

The SEC allows us to “incorporate by reference” the information we filed with the SEC. This means that we can disclose important information to you by referring you to another document filed separately with the SEC. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this annual report on Form 20-F.

SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 11.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

Our exposure to financial market risks relates primarily to changes in interest rates, equity prices and exchange rates.

The following discussions and tables, which constitute “forward-looking statements” that involve risks and uncertainties, summarize our market-sensitive financial instruments including fair value and maturity. Such discussions address market risk only and do not present other risks which we face in the normal course of business.

Interest Rate Risk

Our profitability is affected by changes in interest rates. Although the Chinese central bank increased the benchmark deposit rate in 2004 and 2006, we are currently experiencing a comparatively low interest

rate environment in general. If interest rates were to further increase in the future, surrenders and withdrawals of insurance and annuity policies and contracts may increase as policyholders seek other investments with higher perceived returns. This process may result in cash outflows requiring that we sell investment assets at a time when the prices of those assets are adversely affected by the increase in market interest rates, which may result in realized investment losses. In addition, if interest rates were to increase, but the CIRC did not raise the cap set by the CIRC on the rates we guarantee, sales of some of our products, including our non-participating investment type products, could be adversely affected. If interest rates were to decline, the income we realize from our investments may decline, affecting our profitability. In addition, as instruments in our investment portfolio mature, we might have to reinvest the funds we receive in investments bearing a lower interest rate.

For the yearyears ended December 31, 20052006 and 2004,2005, the investment yield was 3.86%4.27% and 3.46%3.86%, respectively. Traditional insurance policies with an investment component and investment contracts are generally priced with guaranteed interest rates, subject to a cap on guaranteed rates set by the CIRC, which is currently 2.50%. Dividends on participating policies are required to be at least 70% of distributable earnings attributable to such policies.

The following tables set forth selected assets and liabilities with exposure to interest rates as of December 31, 20052006 and 2004.2005.

 

  Expected Maturity Date  Expected Maturity Date

As of December 31, 2005

  2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Thereafter Total Fair
value

As of December 31, 2006

  2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Thereafter Total Fair
value
  (RMB in millions, except as otherwise stated)  (RMB in millions, except as otherwise stated)

Assets

  

Hold-to-maturity and available-for-sale debt securities

         

Assets

Held-to-maturity and available-for-sale debt securities

         

Fixed rate bonds

                  

in RMB

  2,338  3,875  4,165  28,081  5,063  180,994  224,516  236,783  7,104  3,958  28,523  5,103  29,151  258,862  332,701  344,253

Average interest rate

  6.11% 4.72% 3.39% 3.97% 2.85% 4.14% 4.11%   3.45% 3.41% 3.94% 2.79% 4.13% 3.96% 3.93% 

in US$

  —    —    16  —    —    —    16  16  —    16  —    —    —    —    16  16

Average interest rate

  —    —    3.65% —    —    —    3.65%   —    3.65% —    —    —    —    3.65% 

Variable rate bonds

                  

in RMB

  377  495  16  6,226  1,972  6,890  15,976  16,402  431  16  6,236  2,555  1,966  6,187  17,391  17,570

Average interest rate

  3.24% 2.67% 2.89% 4.80% 3.94% 3.55% 4.05%   2.89% 3.15% 5.06% 3.95% 3,73% 3.74% 4.22% 

in US$

  —    —    —    —    1,009  —    1,009  1,009  —    —    —    976  —    2,343  3,319  3,319

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    4.67% —    4.67%   —    —    —    4.69% —    5.88% 5.53% 
Term deposits (excluding structured deposits) in RMB  10,563  53,195  46,487  41,200  6,380  2,000  159,825  159,825

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

         

in RMB

  54,806  46,487  41,200  6,380  17,600  999  167,472  167,472

Average interest rate

  4.08% 4.05% 3.58% 4.11% 4.11% 5.40% 3.95%   4.24% 3.84% 4.38% 4.38% 3.85% 5.77% 4.14% 

in US$

  —    —    242  —    —    —    242  242  3,124  234  —    —    —    —    3,358  3,358

Average interest rate

  —    —    4.11% —    —    —    4.11%   5.67% 4.11% —    —    —    —    5.56% 

Structured deposits(1)

                  

in US$

  —    —    —    —    —    4,802  4,802  4,538  —    —    —    —    —    4,646  4,646  4,419

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    —    7.80% 7.80%   —    —    —    —    —    7.46% 7.46% 

Liabilities

                  

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,731  —    —    —    —    —    4,731  4,731  8,227  —    —    —    —    —    8,227  8,227

Average interest rate

  2.36% —    —    —    —    —    2.36% 

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  49,555  55,975  44,115  36,572  53,954  42,501  282,672  276,241

Average interest rate

  2.01% 2.00% 2.01% 2.92% 2.95% 3.09% 2.47% 

Investment contracts

  2,773  1,105  1,461  957  1,050  41,266  48,612  42,034

Average interest rate

  2.41% 1.79% 1.80% 2.51% 2.51% 2.51% 2.47% 

  Expected Maturity Date  Expected Maturity Date

As of December 31, 2005

  2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Thereafter Total Fair
value
  2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Thereafter Total Fair
value
  (RMB in millions, except as otherwise stated)  (RMB in millions, except as otherwise stated)

Assets

Held-to-maturity and available-for-sale debt securities

         

Fixed rate bonds

         

in RMB

  2,338  3,875  4,165  28,081  5,063  180,994  224,516  236,783

Average interest rate

  6.11% 4.72% 3.39% 3.97% 2.85% 4.14% 4.11% 

in US$

  —    —    16  —    —    —    16  16

Average interest rate

  —    —    3.65% —    —    —    3.65% 

Variable rate bonds

         

in RMB

  377  495  16  6,226  1,972  6,890  15,976  16,402

Average interest rate

  3.24% 2.67% 2.89% 4.80% 3.94% 3.55% 4.05% 

in US$

  —    —    —    —    1,009  —    1,009  1,009

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    4.67% —    4.67% 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

         

in RMB

  10,563  53,195  46,487  41,200  6,380  2,000  159,825  159,825

Average interest rate

  4.08% 4.05% 3.58% 4.11% 4.11% 5.40% 3.95% 

in US$

  —    —    242  —    —    —    242  242

Average interest rate

  —    —    4.11% —    —    —    4.11% 

Structured deposits(1)

         

in US$

  —    —    —    —    —    4,802  4,802  4,538

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    —    7.80% 7.80% 

Liabilities

         

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,731  —    —    —    —    —    4,731  4,731

Average interest rate

  1.70% —    —    —    —    —    1.70%   1.70% —    —    —    —    —    1.70% 

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  7,612  47,013  57,987  47,880  37,099  39,410  237,001  219,973  7,612  47,013  57,987  47,880  37,099  39,410  237,001  219,973

Average interest rate

  2.2% 2.0% 2.0% 2.0% 2.9% 3.1% 2.3%   2.2% 2.0% 2.0% 2.0% 2.9% 3.1% 2.3% 

Investment contracts

  6,568  856  1,276  846  983  33,573  44,102  36,712  6,568  856  1,276  846  983  33,573  44,102  36,712

Average interest rate

  2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5%   2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 

(1)assuming the interest rates are within the specified ranges and the deposits are not terminated earlier by the banks.

   Expected Maturity Date

As of December 31, 2004

  2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  Thereafter  Total  Fair
value
   (RMB in millions, except as otherwise stated)

Assets

         

Other-than-trading

         

Fixed rate bonds

  1,145  5,597  5,501  4,861  25,959  93,453  136,516  131,792

Average interest rate

  2.73% 3.11% 3.61% 3.29% 4.07% 4.02% 3.95% 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

in RMB

  2,343  3,727  53,195  47,840  41,200  16,931  165,236  165,236

Average interest rate

  4.47% 4.54% 4.04% 3.58% 4.11% 4.57% 4.00% 

in US$

  5,462  —    —    —    —    —    5,462  5,462

Average interest rate

  2.28% —    —    —    —    —    2.28% 

Structured deposits(1)

         

in US$

  —    —    —    —    331  4,469  4,800  4,789

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    6.29% 8.05% 7.93% 

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  279  —    —    —    —    —    279  279

Average interest rate

  2.49% —    —    —    —    —    2.49% 

Variable rate bonds

  —    1,928  1,055  456  6,130  8,326  17,895  17,719

Average interest rate

  —    2.79% 2.43% 2.62% 4.57% 3.32% 3.62% 

Liabilities

         

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  1,815  6,841  46,978  60,485  48,950  26,816  191,885  176,711

Average interest rate

  2.6% 2.1% 2.0% 2.0% 2.0% 3.1% 2.2% 

Investment contracts

  2,238  571  740  452  574  29,536  34,111  27,494

Average interest rate

  2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 2.5% 

Equity Price Risk

Our investments in securities investment funds or equity securities expose us to changes in equity prices. We manage this risk on an integrated basis with other risks through our asset-liability management strategies. We also manage equity price risk through industry and issuer diversification and asset allocation techniques.

The following table sets forth our exposure to equity securities as of December 31, 20052006 and 2004.2005.

 

   As of December 31,
   2004  2005
   Carrying
amount
  Fair
value
  Carrying
amount
  Fair
value
   (RMB in millions)

Equity securities

  17,271  17,271  39,548  39,548

Financial assets at fair value through income/trading

  4,674  4,674  13,287  13,287

Available-for-sale/non-trading

  12,597  12,597  26,261  26,261
   As of December 31,
   2005  2006
   Carrying amount  Fair value  Carrying amount  Fair value
   (RMB in millions)

Equity securities

  39,548  39,548  95,493  95,493

Financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  13,287  13,287  32,898  32,898

Available-for-sale

  26,261  26,261  62,595  62,595

A hypothetical 10% decline in the December 31, 20042005 and 20052006 value of the available-for-sale equity securities held for non-trading would result in an unrealized loss of approximately RMB 1,2602,626 million and RMB 2,6266,260 million, respectively.

A hypothetical 10% decline in the December 31, 20042005 and 20052006 value of the financial assets at fair value through income equity securities held for trading would result in a charge to the income statement of approximately RMB 4671,329 million and RMB 1,3293,290 million, respectively.

The selection of a 10% immediate change in the value of equity securities should not be construed as a prediction by us of future market events but rather as an illustration of the potential impact of such an event.

Foreign Exchange Risk

Our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates against RMB results primarily from our holdings in non-RMB denominated structured deposits and term deposits. Our indebtedness and capital expenditures are predominantly in RMB and the principal currencies which create foreign currency exchange rate risk in our deposits are the U.S. dollar, Japanese yen and Hong Kong dollar. We recorded RMB 639 million (US$7982 million) foreign exchange losses for the year ended December 31, 2005,2006, resulting from our assets held in foreign currencies, which were affected by the appreciation of the Renminbi. Future movements in the exchange rate of RMB against the U.S. dollar and other foreign currencies may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

The following tables set forth assets denominated in currencies other than RMB as of December 31, 20052006 and 2004.2005.

 

  Expected Maturity Date  Expected Maturity Date

As of December 31, 2005

  2006 2007  2008 2009  2010 Thereafter Total Fair
value

As of December 31, 2006

  2007 2008 2009  2010 2011  Thereafter Total Fair
value
  (in millions)  (in millions)

Debt securities

             

in US$

  —    —    2  —    125  —    127  127  —    2  —    125  —    300  427  427

Average interest rate

  —    —    3.65% —    4.67% —    4.65%   —    3.65% —    4.69% —    5.88% 5.52% 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

                      

in US$

  —    —    30  —    —    —    30  30  400  30  —    —    —    —    430  430

Average interest rate

  —    —    4.11% —    —    —    4.11%   5.67% 4.11% —    —    —    —    5.56% 

Structured deposits(1)

                      

in US$

  —    —    —    —    —    595  595  562  —    —    —    —    —    595  595  566

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    —    7.80% 7.80%   —    —    —    —    —    7.46% 7.46% 

Cash and Cash equivalents

                      

in US$

  1,921  —    —    —    —    —    1,921  1,921  651  —    —    —    —    —    651  651

Average interest rate

  4.61% —    —    —    —    —    4.61%   5.36% —    —    —    —    —    5.36% 

in HK$

  204  —    —    —    —    —    204  204  82  —    —    —    —    —    82  82

Average interest rate

  4.40% —    —    —    —    —    4.40%   3.62% —    —    —    —    —    3.62% 
  Expected Maturity Date

As of December 31, 2004

  2005 2006  2007 2008  2009 Thereafter Total Fair
value
  (in millions)

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

  

in US$

  660  —    —    —    —    —    660  660

Average interest rate

  2.28% —    —    —    —    —    2.28% 

Structured deposits(1)

           

in US$

  —    —    —    —    40  540  580  579

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    6.29% 8.05% 7.93% 

Cash and Cash equivalents

           

in US$

  1,841  —    —    —    —    —    1,841  1,841

Average interest rate

  n/a         n/a  

  Expected Maturity Date  Expected Maturity Date

As of December 31, 2004

  2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  Thereafter  Total  Fair
value

As of December 31, 2005

  2006 2007  2008 2009  2010 Thereafter Total Fair
value
  (in millions)

Debt securities

           

in US$

  —    —    2  —    125  —    127  127

Average interest rate

      3.65%   4.679%   4.65% 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

           

in US$

  —    —    30  —    —    —    30  30

Average interest rate

  —    —    4.11% —    —    —    4.11% 

Structured deposits(1)

           

in US$

  —    —    —    —    —    595  595  562

Average interest rate

  —    —    —    —    —    7.80% 7.80% 

Cash and Cash equivalents

           

in US$

  1,921  —    —    —    —    —    1,921  1,921

Average interest rate

  4.61% —    —    —    —    —    4.61% 
  (in millions)

in HK$

  297            297  297  204  —    —    —    —    —    204  204

Average interest rate

  n/a            n/a    4.40% —    —    —    —    —    4.40% 

(1)assuming the interest rates are within the specified range and the deposits are not terminated earlier by the banks.

 

ITEM 12.DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES.

Not applicable.

PART II

 

ITEM 13.DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES.

None.

 

ITEM 14.MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS.

Material Modification To The Rights Of Security Holders

See “Item 10. Additional Information—Articles of Association”.

Use Of Proceeds

The following use of proceeds information relates to our registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-110615), filed by us in connection with our initial public offering of H shares in the United States. In connection with the registration of the H shares, a registration statement on Form F-6 (File No.333-110622) was also filed for ADSs representing such H shares. Each of these two registration statements was declared effective by the SEC on December 11, 2003. Our H shares commenced trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on December 18, 2003 and the ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange on December 17, 2003.

The net proceeds from the initial public offering of our shares, after deduction of fees and expenses, amounted to RMB 24,707 million and were held in either H.K. dollars or U.S. dollars. As of the date of this annual report, a substantial part of the cash proceeds from our global offering was held in bank deposit accounts dominated in foreign currencies in China, part of which were held as structured deposits. We gradually converted approximately US$300 million of the cash proceeds into Renminbi to reduce foreign exchange risks. In addition, we used approximately US$250 million of the cash proceeds for investments in H shares of China Construction Bank Corporation during its initial public offering in 2005, a small portion of which was sold early this year,2006, and approximately US$125425 million for investments in foreign-currency dominated debts in China. We have also agreed to subscribeused approximately HK$1.175 billion of the cash proceeds for such number ofinvestments in H shares of Bank of China Limited that may be purchased for approximately HK$1,163 million during its initial public offering atin May 2006, approximately HK$2 billion for investments in H shares of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited in its initial public offering price.in October 2006 and approximately US$433 million for investments in Guangdong Development Bank in December 2006.

 

ITEM 15.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

In April 2006, in connection with their audit of our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2005 and for the year then ended, our independent registered public accounting firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers, identified to our audit committee certain internal control deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that they considered to constitute material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. Effective in 2005, the auditing standard under which independent public accounting firms report internal control deficiencies, Statement on Auditing Standards Section 325, was amended. Prior to the amendment, significant weaknesses were reported to management and the audit committee and disclosed, as appropriate, under the context of reportable conditions. Following the amendment, independent public accounting firms are required to evaluate internal control deficiencies and categorize identified weaknesses as “material weakness”, “significant deficiencies” or “deficiencies”.

The internal control deficiencies that were identified as material weaknesses were: China Life does not have sufficient H.K. GAAP, U.S. GAAP accounting and actuarial professional staffing; the audit committee does not have a financial expert as defined under the relevant rules of the SEC; the need to strengthen the centralized management by China Life’s headquarters over the accounting and operations of its branches and the need to strengthen the supervision and control by China Life’s headquarters of the provincial-level IT infrastructure, application development, maintenance and access control; and the need to strengthen management over short-term products.

PricewaterhouseCoopers further advised the audit committee that the internal control deficiencies it identified did not affect PricewaterhouseCoopers’ report on our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2005 and for the year then ended included in this annual report.

Our management believes that none of these and other internal control deficiencies that have been identified by management and PricewaterhouseCoopers have had a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations and believes that our audited financial statements included in this annual report present fairly, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the company for the financial periods covered by the statements.

Acting under the supervision and guidance of our audit committee and board of directors, our management has worked, and will continue to work, to address these and other deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting. Actions taken during 2005 and continuing include improving the supervision and management of investment risks, through, among other things, regular examinations, analysis and evaluation on the risks of investment assets, the introduction of an internationally advanced asset liability management system to enhance the management of China Life’s investment assets and insurance liabilities matching, and improve and strengthen the implementation of a dynamic system and control of our investment assets; further improving the vertically integrated management structure and the centralized internal audit system, with the addition of audit staff at provincial branches; revising and formulating a series of internal audit systems and working guidelines; conducting internal audit reviews on key risk and control areas and strengthening the supervision and inspection of rectifications and reforms of branches; establishing a new internal control and compliance department in January 2006; appointing Mr. Daniel Joseph Kunesh, the chairman of the Committee on Life Insurance Financial Reporting of the U.S. Society of Actuaries, as chief actuary; and recruiting Mr. Yang Zheng, member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, as assistant to general manager of our finance department and our qualified accountant as required under Hong Kong Listing Rules. In addition, China Life recruited additional professional staffs in finance and actuarial areas and organized systematic trainings. A new system for short-term accident and health insurance business developed by China Life will implemented soon, based on which those insurance business will be managed centrally at provincial level. While noting the issues raised by PricewaterhouseCoopers, we believe that these and other actions taken to date have significantly improved our internal controls.

Beginning with the year ending December 31, 2006, Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act will require us to include an internal control report of management with our annual report on Form 20-F. In 2005, we continued the preparation for compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We believe that as we prepare for compliance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, we may identify additional deficiencies in our system of internal control over financial reporting, and, if so, will take corrective actions accordingly for their rectification. Our activities in 2006 are particularly focused on control issues at the corporate level. We cannot assure you that we will be able to complete the documentation, testing and, if appropriate, remediation work necessary to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or that we or our independent public accountants will not identify material weaknesses in our internal control.

As required by SEC Rule 13a-15(b), we have carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Acting Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of December 31, 2005,2006, the end of the period covered by this annual report. This evaluation included, among other things, an assessment of the nature and extent of the internal control deficiencies identified by PricewaterhouseCoopers and our management and their impact on our disclosure controls and procedures and, where relevant, other procedures we have in place to mitigate the impact of such deficiencies on our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on that evaluation, our Acting Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at a reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2005.2006.

MANAGEMENT’S ANNUAL REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Not applicable.Management of China Life Insurance Company Limited (together with its consolidated subsidiaries, the “Group”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Group’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with applicable generally accepted accounting principles. The Group’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets and liabilities of the Group;

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with the applicable generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Group are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Group; and

provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Group’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

ATTESTATION REPORT OF THE REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRMManagement assessed the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) inInternal Control—Integrated Framework. Based on this assessment, management determined that the Group’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2006.

Not applicable.Management’s assessment of the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is included in Item 18 herein.

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Aside fromIn its 2005 Form 20-F, the changes described, there were no significant changes to ourGroup reported the following material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting during: 1) the period coveredGroup did not have sufficient HKFRS and US GAAP accounting and actuarial professional staffing; 2) the Group did not have a financial expert as defined under the relevant rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission ; 3) the Group needed to strengthen the centralized management by this annual report thatheadquarters over the accounting and operations of its branches; 4) the Group needed to strengthen the supervision and control by headquarters of the provincial level information technology infrastructure, application development, maintenance and access control; and 5) the Group needed to strengthen management over its short term insurance products.

During 2006, the Group implemented a number of remediation measures to address the material weaknesses described above, including the following:

The Group expanded its accounting manuals to clearly document key controls and processes necessary for preparing its consolidated financial statements in accordance with the applicable generally accepted accounting standards. It more formally documented the procedures it uses to monitor changes of relevant accounting standards, assess their impact on the Group, and make any necessary process and control changes in the Group’s accounting manuals. The Group also enhanced the professional training provided to actuarial and accounting employees and engaged additional accounting and actuarial resources.

The Group has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, ourappointed a qualified financial expert as an independent director and member of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.

The Group has enhanced its monitoring controls over its branches by assessing the internal control effectiveness of the branches in a structured manner, overseeing the branches’ remediation process, and centrally evaluating remediation results. In addition, the Group enhanced its monitoring controls through a more structured analytical review of financial results at the branch level through the use of more robust business review processes.

The Group enhanced its information system monitoring controls over branches by issuing enhanced information technology operation policies and performance assessment rules, standardizing access controls over operational and accounting systems, enhancing the IT internal audit function and enhancing the controls over system changes.

The Group enhanced the controls over its short term insurance business and tightened its control effectiveness over the associated financial reporting.

As of December 31, 2006, management of the Group determined that applicable controls were effectively designed and operating so as to enable management to conclude that the above described material weaknesses have been remediated.

 

ITEM 16A.AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

Our board of directors has determined that our company does not haveMr. Ngai Wai Fung qualifies as an audit committee financial expert serving on our audit committee. We areas defined in the process of seeking potential candidates for the audit committee position who will be qualified as an financial expert pursuant to the instruction to paragraph (a) of Item 16A of Form 20-F. We have not been able to find such candidate asMr. Ngai is “independent” in accordance with the applicable requirements of Rule 10A-3 of the dateU.S. Securities Exchange Act. Mr. Ngai was appointed as an independent non-executive director and a member of this annual report.the audit committee of our company in December 2006. For Mr. Ngai’s biographical information, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees.”

 

ITEM 16B.CODE OF ETHICS.

At the board meeting held on June 29, 2004, we adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, controller and other senior officers of our company. We have filed the adopted code of business conduct and ethics as an exhibit to our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, as filed on May 27, 2005.

 

ITEM 16C.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

The following table sets forth the aggregate audit fees, audit-related fees, tax fees and all other fees paid to our principal accountants for the fiscal years of 20052006 and 2004.2005.

 

   Audit
Fees
  Audit-
Related
Fees
  Tax
Fees
  All
Other
Fees
   (RMB in millions)

2005

  35(1) 11(2) —    —  

2004

  32  —    —    —  
Audit FeesAudit-Related FeesTax FeesAll Other Fees
(RMB in millions)

2006

94(1)—  —  —  

2005

35(1)11(2)—  —  

(1)auditAudit fees include fees billed for professional services rendered for audits of the Group’s annual consolidated financial statements, review of interim financial statements, statutory audits of the Company and its subsidiaries.

(2)Audit-related fees include fees billed for services of internal control reviewsreviews.

According to our current internal rules, before our principal accountants are engaged by us to render audit or non-audit services, the engagement must be approved by our audit committee.

ITEM 16D.EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES.

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 16E.PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

As of December 31, 2005,2006, China Life and its subsidiaries have not purchased, sold or redeemed any of China Life’s shares.

PART III

 

ITEM 17.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We have elected to provide the financial statements and related information specified in Item 18 in lieu of Item 17.

ITEM 18.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements for a list of all financial statements filed as part of this annual report.

 

ITEM 19.EXHIBITS.

(a) See Item 18 for a list of the financial statements filed as part of this annual report.

(b) Exhibits to this annual report.

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

No.

 

Description of Exhibit

1.1 Amended and Restated Articles of Association of the Registrant
2.1 Form of H share certificate*
2.2 Form of Deposit Agreement, including formthe Form of American Depositary Receipt†
2.3Form of Amendment to Deposit Agreement, including the Form of American Depositary Receipt¨
4.1 Form of U.S. and International Underwriting Agreement*
4.2 Form of Hong Kong Underwriting Agreement*
4.3 Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Mitcham Resources Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.4 Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Hutchison International Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.5 Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Richbo Investment Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.6 Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Chow Tai Fook Nominee Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.7 Restructuring Agreement*
4.8 Trademark License Agreement*
4.9 Policy Management AgreementAgreement°
4.10 Asset Management Agreement between China Life Insurance Company Limited and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company LimitedLimited°
4.11 Asset Management Agreement between China Life Insurance (Group) Company and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company LimitedLimited°
4.12 Property Leasing Agreement
4.13 Non-Competition Agreement*
4.14Asset Purchase Agreement
4.15 Promoters Agreement for the Formation of China Life Pension Company LimitedLimited°
  4.154.16 Share Subscription Agreement for the Formation of a Property and Casualty Insurance CompanyCompany°
  4.16Service agreement with independent director Long Yongtuà
4.17 Service agreement with independent director Chau Tak Hayà
  4.18Service agreement with independent director Sun ShuyiD
  4.19Service agreement with independent director Cai RangDPromoters Agreement for the Formation of China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited

No.

 

Description of Exhibit

  8.1 List of subsidiaries of the Registrant
11.1 Code of Business Conduct and EthicsD
12.1 Certification of CEO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
12.2 Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
13.1 Certification of CEO and CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code


*Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-110615), filed with the Commission on December 9, 2003.

Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-110622), filed with the Commission on December 9, 2003.

¨Incorporated by reference to the post-effective Amendment to the Registration Statement on Form 6 (File No. 333-110622), filed with the Commission on December 14, 2006.
àIncorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, filed with the Commission on June 28, 2004.

DIncorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the Commission on May 27, 2005.
°Incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005, filed with the Commission on May 30, 2006.

SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 

China Life Insurance Company Limited

By: 

/s/ Wu YanWan Feng

Name:Wan Feng
Title:Vice President and Executive Director
 

Name: Wu Yan

Title: Director and President

Acting Chief Executive Officer

Date: May 30, 200618, 2007

 

i


EXHIBIT INDEX

No.

Description of Exhibit

1.1Amended and Restated Articles of Association of the Registrant
2.1Form of H share certificate*
2.2Form of Deposit Agreement, including form of American Depositary Receipt†
2.3Form of Amendment to Deposit Agreement, including the Form of American Depositary Receipt¨
4.1Form of U.S. and International Underwriting Agreement*
4.2Form of Hong Kong Underwriting Agreement*
4.3Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Mitcham Resources Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.4Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Hutchison International Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.5Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Richbo Investment Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.6Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Chow Tai Fook Nominee Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
4.7Restructuring Agreement*
4.8Trademark License Agreement*
4.9Policy Management Agreement°
4.10Asset Management Agreement between China Life Insurance Company Limited and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited°
4.11Asset Management Agreement between China Life Insurance (Group) Company and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited°
4.12Property Leasing Agreement
4.13Non-Competition Agreement*
4.14Asset Purchase Agreement
4.15Promoters Agreement for the Formation of China Life Pension Company Limited°
4.16Share Subscription Agreement for the Formation of a Property and Casualty Insurance Company°
4.17Promoters Agreement for the Formation of China Life Property and Casualty Insurance Company Limited

ii


No.

Description of Exhibit

  8.1List of subsidiaries of the Registrant
11.1Code of Business Conduct and EthicsD
12.1Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
12.2Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
13.1Certification pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code

*Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-110615), filed with the Commission on December 9, 2003.
Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-110622), filed with the Commission on December 9, 2003.
¨Incorporated by reference to the post-effective Amendment to the Registration Statement on Form 6 (File No. 333-110622), filed with the Commission on December 14, 2006.
àIncorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, filed with the Commission on June 28, 2004.
DIncorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the Commission on May 27, 2005.
°Incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005, filed with the Commission on May 30, 2006.

iii


CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Historical Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 20042006 and 2005

  F-3

Consolidated Income StatementStatements for the years ended December 31, 2003,2006, 2005 and 2004 and 2005

  F-5

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity for the years ended December 31, 2003,2006, 2005 and 2004 and 2005

  F-6

Consolidated Cash Flow Statements for the years ended December 31, 2003,2006, 2005 and 2004 and 2005

  F-7

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

  F-9

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

China Life Insurance Company Limited and Subsidiaries

We have completed an integrated audit of China Life Insurance Company Limited (“the Company”) and its subsidiaries (“the Group”) December 31, 2006 consolidated financial statements and of its internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 and audits of its December 31, 2005 and December 31, 2004 consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Our opinions, based on our audits, are presented below.

Consolidated financial statements

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated income statements, consolidated cash flow statements and consolidated statements of changes in equity present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of China Life Insurance Company Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the “Group”)Group at December 31, 20052006 and 2004,December 31, 2005, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005 in2006in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted accounting principles in Hong Kong. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Group’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit of financial statements includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

GenerallyAccounting principles generally accepted accounting principles in Hong Kong vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The applicationAmerica. Information relating to the nature and effect of such differences is presented in Note 36.

Internal control over financial reporting

Also, in our opinion, management’s assessment, included in Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting, that the latter would have affected the determination of consolidated net profit/loss for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2005 and the determination of consolidated shareholders’ equityGroup maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20052006based on criteria established inInternal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), is fairly stated, in all material respects, based on those criteria. Furthermore, in our opinion, the Group maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2006 based on criteria established inInternal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the COSO. The Group’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and 2004,for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on management’s assessment and on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We conducted our audit of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. An audit of internal control over financial reporting includes obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, evaluating management’s assessment, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control, and performing such other procedures as we consider necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the extent summarizedmaintenance of records that, in Note 34reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the consolidated financial statements, exceptrisk that property, plant and equipment on hand ascontrols may become inadequate because of January 1, 1997 has been valued onchanges in conditions, or that the basisdegree of a valuation performed as of January 1, 2000 rather than at historical cost less depreciation, which is required by U.S. GAAP. As explained in Note 2.5 tocompliance with the consolidated financial statements, the Group acquired these assets from a predecessor company in 1997 and is unable to obtain historical cost information in respect of such assets from this predecessor.policies or procedures may deteriorate.

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Hong Kong,

April 18, 200617, 2007

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2006

       

As at

31 December

2005

  

As at

31 December

2004

(Restated

(Note 2))

    Note      RMB million  RMB million

ASSETS

       

Property, plant and equipment

  6      12,710  12,250

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  7      37,741  32,787

Financial assets

       

Debt securities:

    255,554  150,234

- held-to-maturity securities

  8.1      146,297  79,603

- available-for-sale securities

  8.2      96,425  —  

- non-trading securities

  8.2      —    69,791

- financial assets at fair value through income

  8.3      12,832  —  

- trading securities

  8.3      —    840

Equity securities:

    39,548  17,271

- available-for-sale securities

  8.2      26,261  —  

- non-trading securities

  8.2      —    12,597

- financial assets at fair value through income

  8.3      13,287  —  

- trading securities

  8.3      —    4,674

Term deposits

  8.5      164,869  175,498

Statutory deposits-restricted

  8.6      5,353  4,000

Policy loans

    981  391

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  8.7      —    279

Accrued investment income

  8.8      6,813  5,084

Premiums receivables

  10      4,959  3,912

Reinsurance assets

  11      1,182  1,297

Cash and cash equivalents

    28,051  27,217

Other

  12      1,458  3,451
         

Total Assets

    559,219  433,671
         

    Note  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

      RMB million  RMB million

ASSETS

       

Property, plant and equipment

  6  14,565  12,710

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  7  39,230  37,741

Investments in associates

  8  6,071  —  

Financial assets

       

Debt securities

    357,898  255,554

- held-to-maturity securities

  9.1  176,559  146,297

- available-for-sale securities

  9.2  176,868  96,425

- at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  9.3  4,471  12,832

Equity securities

    95,493  39,548

- available-for-sale securities

  9.2  62,595  26,261

- at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  9.3  32,898  13,287

Term deposits

  9.5  175,476  164,869

Statutory deposits-restricted

  9.6  5,353  5,353

Policy loans

    2,371  981

Accrued investment income

  9.7  8,461  6,813

Premiums receivables

  11  6,066  4,959

Reinsurance assets

  12  986  1,182

Other assets

  13  2,212  1,458

Cash and cash equivalents

    50,213  28,051
         

Total Assets

    764,395  559,219
         

The notes on pages F-9 to the consolidated financial statements areF-70 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (CONTINUED)

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2006

      

As at
31 December

2005

  

As at

31 December

2004
(Restated

(Note 2))

   Note  RMB million  RMB million

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

      

Liabilities

      

Insurance contracts

      

Short-term insurance contracts:

      

- reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  13  1,784  1,215

- unearned premium reserves

  13  5,147  5,212

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  13  124,656  89,698

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  13  237,001  191,885

Deferred income

  14  34,631  27,603

Financial Liabilities

      

Investment contracts

      

- with discretionary participation feature (“DPF”)

  15  42,230  32,476

- without DPF

  15  1,872  1,635

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  16  4,731  —  

Annuity and other insurance balances payable

    4,492  2,801

Premiums received in advance

    2,951  2,447

Policyholder dividends payable

    6,204  2,037

Other liabilities

  17  4,106  4,922

Current income tax liabilities

    525  38

Deferred tax liabilities

  24  7,982  4,371

Statutory insurance fund

  18  98  429
        

Total liabilities

    478,410  366,769
        

Contingencies and commitments

  30,31  —    —  

Shareholders’ equity

      

Share capital

  28  26,765  26,765

Reserves

  29  37,225  31,573

Retained earnings

    16,388  8,192
        

Total shareholders’ equity

    80,378  66,530
        

Minority interest

    431  372
        

Total equity

    80,809  66,902
        

Total liabilities and equity

    559,219  433,671
        

   Note  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at 31

December

2005

     RMB million  RMB million

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

      

Liabilities

      

Insurance contracts

      

Short-term insurance contracts

      

- reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  14  2,498  1,784

- unearned premium reserves

  14  5,346  5,147

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  14  172,875  124,656

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  14  282,672  237,001

Deferred income

  15  41,371  34,631

Financial Liabilities

      

Investment contracts

      

- with Discretionary Participation Feature (“DPF”)

  16  45,998  42,230

- without DPF

  16  2,614  1,872

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  17  8,227  4,731

Annuity and other insurance balances payable

    8,891  4,492

Premiums received in advance

    2,329  2,951

Policyholder dividends payable

    26,057  6,204

Other liabilities

  18  5,333  4,106

Current income tax liabilities

    843  525

Deferred tax liabilities

  25  19,022  7,982

Statutory insurance fund

  19  114  98
        

Total liabilities

    624,190  478,410
        

Contingencies and commitments

  32, 33  —    —  

Shareholders’ equity

      

Share capital

  30  28,265  26,765

Reserves

  31  77,368  37,225

Retained earnings

    34,032  16,388
        

Total shareholders’ equity

    139,665  80,378
        

Minority interest

    540  431
        

Total equity

    140,205  80,809
        

Total liabilities and equity

    764,395  559,219
        

Approved and authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on 17 April 2007

Yang Chao

Wan Feng

Director

Director

The notes on pages F-9 to the consolidated financial statements areF-70 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

      2005  2004  2003 
       

(Restated

(Note 2))

  

(Restated

(Note 2))

 
   Note  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

REVENUES

      

Gross written premiums and policy fees
(including gross written premiums and policy fees from insurance contracts 2005: RMB 80,651 million, 2004: RMB 65,878 million, 2003: RMB 69,157 million)

     81,022   66,257   69,334 

Less: premiums ceded to reinsurers

     (769)  (1,182)  (1,571)
               

Net written premiums and policy fees

     80,253   65,075   67,763 
               

Net change in unearned premium reserves

     (215)  (67)  (547)
               

Net premiums earned and policy fees

     80,038   65,008   67,216 
               

Net investment income

  19   16,685   11,317   9,825 

Net realised losses on financial assets

  20   (510)  —     —   

Net realised losses on investments

  20   —     (237)  868 

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income

  21   260   —     —   

Net unrealised losses on trading securities

  21   —     (1,061)  247 

Other income

     1,739   1,779   727 
               

Total revenues

     98,212   76,806   78,883 
               

BENEFITS, CLAIMS AND EXPENSES

      

Insurance benefits and claims

      

Life insurance death and other benefits

  22   (8,311)  (6,816)  (8,570)

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  22   (6,847)  (6,418)  (4,882)

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

  22   (33,977)  (25,361)  (39,966)

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  22   (4,894)  (3,704)  (6,811)

Interest credited to investment contracts

     (973)  (616)  (449)

Increase in deferred income

     (8,521)  (7,793)  (5,942)

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits

     (5,359)  (2,048)  (1,207)

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  7   (7,766)  (6,263)  (5,023)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs

     (1,845)  (1,472)  (1,294)

Administrative expenses

     (7,237)  (6,585)  (6,862)

Other operating expenses

     (798)  (131)  (872)

Interest expenses on bank borrowings

     —     —     (7)

Statutory insurance fund

     (174)  (96)  (85)
               

Total benefits, claims and expenses

     (86,702)  (67,303)  (81,970)
               

Net Profit/loss before income tax expenses

  23   11,510   9,503   (3,087)

Income tax expenses

  24   (2,145)  (2,280)  (1,180)
               

Net profit/loss

     9,365   7,223   (4,267)
               

Attributable to:

      

- shareholders of the Company

     9,306   7,171   (4,252)

- minority interest

     59   52   (15)
               

Basic and diluted earnings per share

  25   RMB 0.35  RMB 0.27  RMB(0.21)
               

Dividends proposed after the balance sheet date

  26   1,338   Nil   Nil 

   Note  2006  2005  2004 
     RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

REVENUES

      

Gross written premiums and policy fees (including gross written premiums and policy fees from insurance contracts 2006: RMB 98,840 million, 2005: RMB 80,651 million, 2004: RMB 65,878 million)

    99,417  81,022  66,257 

Less: premiums ceded to reinsurers

    (140) (769) (1,182)
            

Net written premiums and policy fees

    99,277  80,253  65,075 

Net change in unearned premium reserves

    (430) (215) (67)
            

Net premiums earned and policy fees

    98,847  80,038  65,008 
            

Net investment income

  20  24,942  16,685  11,317 

Net realised gains/(losses) on financial assets

  21  1,595  (510) —   

Net realised losses on investments

  21  —    —    (237)

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  22  20,044  260  —   

Net unrealised losses on trading securities

  22  —    —    (1,061)

Other income

    1,883  1,739  1,779 
            

Total revenues

    147,311  98,212  76,806 
            

BENEFITS, CLAIMS AND EXPENSES

      

Insurance benefits and claims

      

Life insurance death and other benefits

  23  (10,797) (8,311) (6,816)

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  23  (6,999) (6,847) (6,418)

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

  23  (44,238) (33,977) (25,361)

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  23  (6,386) (4,894) (3,704)

Interest credited to investment contracts

    (996) (973) (616)

Increase in deferred income

    (11,607) (8,521) (7,793)

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits

    (17,617) (5,359) (2,048)

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  7  (10,259) (7,766) (6,263)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs

    (2,415) (1,845) (1,472)

Administrative expenses

    (9,339) (7,237) (6,585)

Other operating expenses

    (859) (798) (131)

Statutory insurance fund

    (194) (174) (96)
            

Total benefits, claims and expenses

    (121,706) (86,702) (67,303)
            

Share of results of associates

  8  —    —    —   

Net profit before income tax expenses

  24  25,605  11,510  9,503 

Income tax expenses

  25  (5,554) (2,145) (2,280)
            

Net profit

    20,051  9,365  7,223 
            

Attributable to:

      

- shareholders of the Company

    19,956  9,306  7,171 

- minority interest

    95  59  52 
            

Basic and diluted earnings per share

  26  RMB 0.75  RMB 0.35  RMB 0.27 
            

Dividends

  28  3,957  1,338  Nil 

The notes on pages F-9 to the consolidated financial statements areF-70 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

   

Attributable to shareholders

of the Company

  Minority
Interest
  Total 
   Share
capital
  Reserves  Retained
earnings
   
   RMB
million
  

RMB

million

  RMB
million
  RMB
million
  RMB
million
 
      (Note 29)          

At 1 January 2003

  —    1,430  (244,666) 165  (243,071)

Net loss

  —    —    (4,252) (15) (4,267)

Appropriation to statutory reserves

  —    53  (53) —    —   

Unrealised losses, net of tax

  —    (2,732) —    —    (2,732)

Capital contribution by CLIC pursuant to restructuring

  20,000  17,358  250,591  (150) 287,799 

Issue of shares

  6,765  19,328  —    —    26,093 

Share issue expenses

  —    (1,386) —    —    (1,386)

Capital contribution by minority shareholder

  —    —    —    320  320 
                

At 31 December 2003

  26,765  34,051  1,620  320  62,756 
                

At 1 January 2004

  26,765  34,051  1,620  320  62,756 

Net profit

  —    —    7,171  52  7,223 

Appropriation to statutory reserves

  —    599  (599) —    —   

Unrealised losses, net of tax

  —    (3,077) —    —    (3,077)
                

At 31 December 2004

  26,765  31,573  8,192  372  66,902 
                

At 1 January 2005

  26,765  31,573  8,192  372  66,902 

Net profit

  —    —    9,306  59  9,365 

Appropriation to statutory reserves

  —    1,110  (1,110) —    —   

Unrealised gains, net of tax

  —    4,542  —    —    4,542 
                

At 31 December 2005

  26,765  37,225  16,388  431  80,809 
                

   

Attributable to shareholders

of the Company

  

Minority

Interest

  Total 
    
   Share
capital
  Reserves  Retained
earnings
       
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 
    (Note 31)   

As at 1 January 2004

  26,765  34,051  1,620  320  62,756 

Net profit

  —    —    7,171  52  7,223 

Appropriation to statutory reserves

  —    599  (599) —    —   

Unrealised losses, net of tax

  —    (3,077) —    —    (3,077)
                

As at 31 December 2004

  26,765  31,573  8,192  372  66,902 
                

As at 1 January 2005

  26,765  31,573  8,192  372  66,902 

Net profit

  —    —    9,306  59  9,365 

Appropriation to statutory reserves

  —    1,110  (1,110) —    —   

Unrealised gains, net of tax

  —    4,542  —    —    4,542 
                

As at 31 December 2005

  26,765  37,225  16,388  431  80,809 
                

As at 1 January 2006

  26,765  37,225  16,388  431  80,809 

Net profit

  —    —    19,956  95  20,051 

Issue of shares

  1,500  26,820  —    —    28,320 

Share issue expenses

  —    (510) —    —    (510)

Dividends paid

  —    —    (1,338) —    (1,338)

Dividends to minority interest

  —    —    —    (8) (8)

Appropriation to statutory reserves

  —    974  (974) —    —   

Unrealised gains, net of tax

  —    12,859  —    22  12,881 
                

As at 31 December 2006

  28,265  77,368  34,032  540  140,205 
                

The notes on pages F-9 to the consolidated financial statements are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

   2005  2004  2003 
    

(Restated

(Note 2))

  

(Restated

(Note 2))

 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

    

Net profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders of the Company

  9,306  7,171  (4,252)

Adjustments for non-cash items:

    

Changes in minority interest

  59  52  (15)

Net realised and unrealised gains/losses on financial assets

  250  —    —   

Net realised and unrealised losses on investments

  —    1,298  (1,115)

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  7,766  6,263  5,023 

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  5,867  4,320  7,260 

Policy fees

  (6,083) (5,194) (6,097)

Depreciation and amortisation

  948  778  1,186 

Amortisation of premiums and discounts

  (130) (120) 101 

Loss on foreign exchange and impairments

  646  8  189 

Deferred income tax

  1,373  2,201  1,041 

Changes in operational assets and liabilities:

    

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  (14,131) (13,478) (11,806)

Financial assets at fair value through income

  (20,321) —    —   

Trading securities

  —    (1,406) (497)

Receivables and payables

  3,096  (2,364) 1,120 

Reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  569  401  (65)

Unearned premium reserves

  (65) (170) 547 

Deferred income

  8,570  7,793  5,942 

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  34,108  25,361  39,948 
          

Net cash inflow from operating activities

  31,828  32,914  38,510 
          

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

    

Sales and maturities:

    

Debt securities

  15,502  21,805  36,507 

Equity securities

  46,555  7,934  4,514 

Property, plant and equipments

  31  67  263 

Purchases:

    

Debt securities

  (102,427) (105,051) (71,540)

Equity securities

  (58,214) (13,005) (13,575)

Property, plant and equipments

  (1,484) (970) (2,242)

Term deposits, net

  9,008  (38,306) (75,724)

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  279  13,723  13,854 

Other

  (590) (275) (69)
          

Net cash outflow from investing activities

  (91,340) (114,078) (108,012)
          

The notes to the consolidated financial statements areF-70 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

   2005  2004  2003 
    

(Restated

(Note 2))

  

(Restated

(Note 2))

 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

    

Contribution from minority shareholders

  —    —    320 

Proceeds from shares issued

  —    —    24,710 

Proceeds from investment in securities sold under agreements to repurchase, net

  4,731  (6,448) 2,846 

Deposits in long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  85,946  88,736  91,343 

Withdrawals from long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  (29,960) (16,523) (13,329)

Repayment of bank borrowings

  —    —    (2)

Cash and cash equivalents retained by CLIC upon the consummation of the Restructuring (Note 2.1)

  —    —    (8,299)
          

Net cash inflow from financing activities

  60,717  65,765  97,589 
          

Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

  1,205  (15,399) 28,087 

Cash and cash equivalents

    

Beginning of year

  27,217  42,616  14,529 

Foreign currency losses on cash and cash equivalents

  (371) —    —   
          

End of year

  28,051  27,217  42,616 
          

Analysis of balance of cash and cash equivalents

    

Cash at bank and in hand

  12,448  12,540  28,555 

Short-term bank deposits

  15,603  14,677  14,061 
Supplemental cash flow information    

Dividend Received

  306  646  312 

Interest Received

  14,552  8,425  9,277 

Income Tax Paid

  279  168  8 

Interest Paid

  —    —    7 

   2006  2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES

    

Net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company

  19,956  9,306  7,171 

Adjustments for non-cash items:

    

Changes in minority interest

  95  59  52 

Net realised and unrealised losses/(gains) on financial assets

  (21,639) 250  —   

Net realised and unrealised losses on investments

  —    —    1,298 

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  10,259  7,766  6,263 

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  7,382  5,867  4,320 

Policy fees

  (7,097) (6,083) (5,194)

Depreciation and amortisation

  912  948  778 

Amortisation of premiums and discounts

  (267) (130) (120)

Loss on foreign exchange and impairments

  642  646  8 

Deferred income tax

  4,696  1,373  2,201 

Changes in operational assets and liabilities:

    

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  (15,914) (14,131) (13,478)

Financial assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  8,943  (20,321) —   

Trading securities

  —    —    (1,406)

Receivables and payables

  15,594  3,096  (2,364)

Reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  714  569  401 

Unearned premium reserves

  199  (65) (170)

Deferred income

  11,614  8,570  7,793 

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  44,263  34,108  25,361 
          

Net cash inflow from operating activities

  80,352  31,828  32,914 
          

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES

    

Sales and maturities:

    

Sales of debt securities

  6,635  15,094  17,737 

Maturities of debt securities

  4,129  408  4,068 

Sales of equity securities

  43,363  46,555  7,934 

Property, plant and equipment

  53  31  67 

Purchases:

    

Debt securities

  (122,246) (102,427) (105,051)

Equity securities

  (52,050) (58,214) (13,005)

Property, plant and equipment

  (2,742) (1,484) (970)

Acquisition of associate

  (6,071) —    —   

Term deposits, net

  (10,719) 9,008  (38,306)

Securities purchased under agreements to resell, net

  —    279  13,723 

Other

  (1,390) (590) (275)
          

Net cash outflow from investing activities

  (141,038) (91,340) (114,078)
          

The notes on pages F-9 to the consolidated financial statements areF-70 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT (CONTINUED)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

   2006  2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES

    

Proceeds from investment in securities sold under agreements to repurchase, net

  3,496  4,731  (6,448)

Deposits in long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  91,441  85,946  88,736 

Withdrawals from long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts

  (38,088) (29,960) (16,523)

Net proceeds from shares issued

  27,810  —    —   

Dividends paid to Company’s shareholders

  (1,338) —    —   

Dividends paid to minority interest

  (8) —    —   
          

Net cash inflow from financing activities

  83,313  60,717  65,765 
          

Net increase/ (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

  22,627  1,205  (15,399)

Cash and cash equivalents

    

Beginning of year

  28,051  27,217  42,616 

Foreign currency losses on cash and cash equivalents

  (465) (371) —   
          

End of year

  50,213  28,051  27,217 
          

Analysis of balance of cash and cash equivalents

    

Cash at bank and in hand

  45,130  12,448  12,540 

Short-term bank deposits

  5,083  15,603  14,677 
Supplemental cash flow information    

Dividend received

  4,415  306  646 

Interest received

  18,939  14,552  8,425 

Income tax paid

  535  279  168 

The notes on pages F-9 to F-70 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1ORGANIZATION AND PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES

China Life Insurance Company Limited (the “Company”) was established in the People’s Republic of China (“China” or “PRC”) on 30 June 2003 as a joint stock company with limited liability as part of a group restructuring of China Life Insurance (Group) Company (formerly China Life Insurance Company) (“CLIC”) and its subsidiaries (the “Restructuring”). The Company and its subsidiaries are hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Group”. The Group’s principal activity is the writing of life insurance business, providing life, insurance, annuity,annuities, accident and health insurance products in China.

Pursuant to the Restructuring, CLIC transferred to the Company (1) all long-term insurance policies (policies having a term of more than one year from the date of issuance) issued on or after 10 June 1999, having policy terms approved by or filed with the China Insurance Regulatory Commission (the “CIRC”) on or after 10 June 1999 and either (i) recorded as a long-term insurance policy as of 30 June 2003 in a database attached to the restructuring agreement as an annex or (ii) having policy terms for group supplemental medical insurance (fund type), (2) stand-alone short-term policies (policies having a term of one year or less from the date of issuance) issued on or after 10 June 1999 and (3) all riders supplemental to the policies described in clauses (1) and (2) above. These policies are referred to as the “transferred policies”. All other insurance policies were retained by CLIC. These policies are referred to as the “non-transferred policies”. The Company issued 20,000 million Domestic Shares in exchange for various liabilities related to the life insurance business of the transferred policies and certain assets (collectively the “Transferred Business”). CLIC retained (i) various liabilities related to the life insurance business of non-transferred policies and certain assets, (ii) equity interests in all subsidiaries and associated companies, (iii) all non-core businesses, and (iv) the ownership of certain assets and liabilities including certain office buildings, bank balances, investments in fixed maturity securities and equity securities, borrowings, claims, contingent and tax liabilities (collectively the “Non-transferred Business”). On 30 September 2003, CLIC and the Company signed a binding restructuring agreement that identified all specific assets and liabilities to be transferred to the Company from CLIC.

The Company is a limited liability company incorporated and located in China. The address of its registered office is: 16 Chaowai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing, PRC. The Company has a primary listingwas listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong and the New York Stock Exchange. In December 2006, the Company issued 1.5 billion new shares (the “A Shares”) through public offering on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, at the offer price of RMB18.88 per share raising RMB28.32 billion. The A Shares of the Company commenced trading on the Shanghai Stock Exchange on 9 January 2007.

These consolidated financial statements are presented in millions of RenMinBi (“RMB million”) unless otherwise stated.

 

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.presented.

 

2.1Basis of preparation

The consummation of the Restructuring occurred for accounting purposes on 30 September 2003, which is the date on which the Company and CLIC signed the legally binding restructuring agreement that identified all specific assets and liabilities to be transferred to the Company from CLIC.

Prior to the consummation of the Restructuring, the Transferred Business and Non-transferred Business have been historically under common management from a number of significant aspects, such as policy design, distribution, plan servicing, asset management, accounting and financing. Therefore, the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year up to the date of the consummation of the Restructuring reflect the consolidated financial results of the business of CLIC and its subsidiaries (including both the Transferred Business and Non-transferred Business). Accordingly, the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2003 included the results of the Transferred Business and Non-transferred Business up to 30 September 2003, the consummation date of the Restructuring and the results of the Transferred Business from 1 October 2003 to 31 December 2003. The consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2005 and 2004 include the results of the Transferred Business only.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.1Basis of preparation (continued)

Upon the consummation date of the Restructuring, the Non-transferred Business, consisting of an excess of liabilities over assets, retained by CLIC was derecognised and reflected in the Company’s financial statements as a capital contribution on such date. This presentation is considered appropriate as CLIC wholly owns the Transferred Business transferred to the Company before and immediately after the Restructuring. The assets and liabilities retained by CLIC are as follows:

RMB million
(Restated)

ASSETS

Financial assets

114,989

Cash and cash equivalents

8,299

Premiums receivables

1,249

Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation

6,966

Other

9,646

Total assets

141,149

Liabilities

Insurance contracts and investment contracts

(416,886)

Annuity and other insurance balances payable

(8,935)

Other liabilities

(2,003)

Statutory insurance fund

(1,124)

Total liabilities

(428,948)

Subtotal

(287,799)

Minority interests

(150)

Net liabilities relating to Non-transferred Business retained by CLIC

(287,949)

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Hong Kong Financial Reporting Standards and Hong Kong Accounting Standards (“HKFRS”). The accounting policies and methods of computation used in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are consistent with those used in the annual financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2004 except that the Group has changed certain of its accounting policies following its adoption of HKFRS that were effective for accounting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2005. These statements have been prepared, under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of available-for-sale financial assets and financial assets at fair value through income.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with HKFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 3.

In 2005,The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants has issued the Group adopted the new orfollowing revised standards of HKFRS listed below, which arewere effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2006.

(a) Standards, amendments and interpretations to published standards effective in 2006 but not relevant to its operations. Reclassifications of certain accounts have been madethe Group’s operations

The following standards, amendments and interpretations to published standards are mandatory for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2006 but are not relevant to the 2004Group’s operations:

HKAS 19 (Amendment), Employee Benefits;

HKAS 21 (Amendment), New Investment in a Foreign Operation;

HKAS 39 (Amendment), The Fair Value Option;

HKAS 39 (Amendment), Cash Flow Hedge Accounting of Forecast Intragroup Transactions;

HKAS 39 and 2003 comparatives, as required,IFRS 4 (Amendment), Financial Guarantee Contracts;

HKFRS 6, Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources;

HKFRS 1 (Amendment), First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards and IFRS 6 (Amendment), Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources;

HK(IFRIC)-Int 4, Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease;

HK(IFRIC)-Int 5, Rights to Interests arising from Decommissioning, Restoration and Environmental Rehabilitation Funds; and

HK(IFRIC)-Int 6, Liabilities arising from Participating in accordance with the relevant requirements.a Specific Market - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.1Basis of preparation (continued)

HKAS 1Presentation of Financial Statements
HKAS 7Cash Flow Statements
HKAS 8Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors
HKAS 10Events after the Balance Sheet Date
HKAS 12Income Taxes
HKAS 14Segment Reporting
HKAS 16Property, Plant and Equipment
HKAS 17Leases
HKAS 18Revenue
HKAS 19Employee Benefits
HKAS 21The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates
HKAS 24Related Party Disclosures
HKAS 27Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements
HKAS 32Financial Instruments: Disclosures and Presentation
HKAS 33Earnings per Share
HKAS 34Interim Financial Reporting
HKAS 36Impairment of Assets
HKAS 37Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets
HKAS 38Intangible Assets
HKAS 39Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement
HKAS 39 (Amendment)Transition and Initial Recognition of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities
HKAS 40Investment Property
HKFRS 3Business Combinations
HKFRS 4Insurance Contract

The adoption of new or revised HKASs 1, 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 24, 27, 32, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 40(b) Standards, amendments and HKFRS 3 didinterpretations to published standards that are not result in substantial changes to the Group’s accounting policies. In summary:

HKASs 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 27, 33, 34, 36, 37, 38, 40yet effective and HKFRS 3 had no material effect on the Group’s policies.

HKAS 1 has affected the order in which assets and liabilities are presented in the balance sheet and other disclosures and the presentation of minority interest in the income statement and in the statement of change in equity.

HKAS 24 has affected the identification of related parties and related-party disclosures.

HKAS 32 has required additional disclosures of information in respect of financial assets and financial liabilities.

All changes in the accounting policies have not been made in accordance with the transition provisions in the respective standards, wherever applicable. All standardsearly adopted by the Group require retrospective application other than HKAS 39 which does not permit the Group to recognise, derecognise or measure financial assets and liabilities in accordance with this standard on a retrospective basis.

The Group applied the previous SSAP 24 “Accounting for investments in securities” to investments in securitiesfollowing have been published that are mandatory for the 2004 and 2003 comparative information. The adjustments required for the accounting differences between SSAP 24 and HKAS 39 are determined and recognised at 1 January 2005.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.1Basis of preparation (continued)

The impact of the adoption of HKAS 39 and HKFRS 4 to the financial statements of the Group is as follows:

(i)HKAS 39

The adoption of HKAS 39 resulted in a change in the accounting policy relating to the classification of financial assets at fair value through income and available-for-sale securities but no change in equity at 1 January 2005. The details of the adjustments to the consolidated balance sheet at 31 December 2005 and consolidated income statement for the year ended 31 December 2005 are as follows:

As at 31

December 2005

RMB million

Consolidated balance sheet

Increase:

Available-for-sale securities

122,686

Decrease:

Non-trading securities

(122,686)

Increase:

Financial assets at fair value through income

26,119

Decrease:

Trading securities

(26,119)
2005
RMB million

Consolidated income statement

Increase:

Net realised losses on financial assets

(510)

Decrease:

Net realised losses on investments

510

Increase:

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income

260

Decrease:

Net unrealised gains on trading securities

(260)

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.1Basis of preparation (continued)

(ii)HKFRS 4

The adoption of HKFRS 4 has resulted in a change in the classification of insurance contracts and investment contracts. HKFRS 4 applies to (i) all direct and assumed risk insurance contracts (“insurance contracts”) and (ii) all investment contracts with a discretionary participation feature (“investment contracts with DPF”) of the Group. All other contracts (“investment contracts without DPF”) of the Group fall into the scope of HKAS 39.

At the time of the Restructuring at 30 June 2003, insurance policies issued after 10 June 1999 were “transferred” to the Group. All insurance policies issued prior to that date were retained by CLIC and are referred to as the “non-transferred policies”. While the Group continues to administer the “non-transferred policies” under an administration agreement with CLIC, it has no continuing exposure to insurance risk related to the “non-transferred policies”. Liability adequacy tests (as described in note 2.8.1c) were performed for the “non-transferred policies” classified as long-term traditional insurance contracts and long-term investment type insurance contracts as of 31 December 2002 and 30 September 2003, using best estimate assumptions appropriate as of those dates. The additional reserve of RMB 67,773 million at 31 December 2002 and RMB 70,597 million at 30 September 2003 was required for long-term investment type insurance contracts, resulting in an additional change in the reserve of RMB 2,824 million, which has been included in insurance benefits and claims for the year ended 31 December 2003. Since the Restructuring, the “non-transferred policies” are no longer included in the Group’s financial statements. The increase in loss attributed to shareholders of the Company as the result of the additional reserve was offset by an increase in the capital contribution from CLIC of RMB2,824 million. Further, no additional reserves would have been required for the “transferred policies” and the policies issued since 30 June 2003 at any valuation date up to and including 31 December 2005 for the Group. As a result, there is no impact on the shareholders’ equity as at 31 December 2003, 2004 and 2005.

The details of the adjustments to the consolidated balance sheets as at 31 December 2005 and 31 December 2004 and the consolidated income statement for the year ended 31 December 2005, 2004 and 2003 are as follows:

    

As at 31

December 2005

  

As at 31

December 2004

 
   RMB million  RMB million 

Consolidated balance sheet

   

Increase:

   

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  124,656  89,698 

Deferred income

  34,631  27,603 

Decrease:

   

Future life policyholder benefits

  (159,287) (117,301)

Increase:

   

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  237,001  191,885 

Investment contracts

   

- with DPF

  42,230  32,476 

- without DPF

  1,872  1,635 

Decrease:

   

Policyholder contract deposits and other funds

  (281,103) (225,996)

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.1Basis of preparation (continued)

    2005  2004  2003 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Consolidated income statement

    

Increase:

    

Insurance benefits and claims

    

- Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

  (33,977) (25,361) (39,966)

Increase in deferred income

  (8,521) (7,793) (5,942)

Decrease:

    

Insurance benefits and claims

    

- Increase in future life policyholder benefits

  42,498  33,154  43,084 

Increase:

    

Insurance benefits and claims

    

- Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  (4,894) (3,704) (6,811)

Interest credited to investment contracts

  (973) (616) (449)

Decrease:

    

Interest credited to policyholder contract deposits

  5,867  4,320  7,260 
          

Net impact: increase in loss attributed to shareholders of the Company

  —    —    2,824 
          

There was no impact on basic and diluted earnings per share for the year ended 31 December 2005 and 2004 from the adoption of HKAS 39 and HKFRS 4. For the year ended 31 December 2003, the basic and diluted losses per share changed from RMB 0.07 to RMB 0.21.

The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“HKICPA”) has issued a number of new and revised standards and interpretations as set out below which are effective for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2006. TheMay 2006 or later periods but that the Group has not early adopted these new and revised standards and interpretations in the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2005.adopted. The Group is in the process of making an assessment of the impact of these new and revised standards and interpretations. So far the Group do not expect the adoption of these new and revised standards and interpretations will have substantial changes to the Group’s accounting policies.

 

HKAS 1 (Amendment)Capital Disclosures
HKAS 19 (Amendment)Actuarial Gains and Losses, Group Plans and Disclosures
HKAS 39 (Amendment)The Fair Value Option

HKAS 39 (Amendment) and

HKFRS 4 (Amendment)

Financial Guarantee Contracts
HKFRS 7Financial Instruments: Disclosures
HKFRS Interpretation 4Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease

HKFRS 7, Financial Instruments: Disclosures, and a complementary Amendment to HKAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements – Capital Disclosures. HKFRS 7 introduces new disclosures relating to financial instruments. The Group will apply HKFRS 7 from 1 January 2007; and

HK(IFRIC)-Int 8, Scope of HKFRS 2 (effective from annual periods beginning on or after 1 May 2006). HK(IFRIC)-Int 8 requires consideration of transactions involving the issuance of equity instruments–where the identifiable consideration received is less than the fair value of the equity instruments issued – to establish whether or not they fall within the scope of HKFRS 2. The Group will apply HK(IFRIC)-Int 8 from 1 January 2007; and

HK(IFRIC)-Int 9, Reassessment of embedded derivatives. HK(IFRIC)-Int 9 requires an entity to assess whether an embedded derivative is required to be separated from the host contract and accounted for as a derivative when the entity first becomes a party to the contract. Subsequent reassessment is prohibited unless there is a change in the terms of the contract that significantly modifies the cash flows that otherwise would be required under the contract, in which case reassessment is required. The Group will apply HK(IFRIC)-Int 9 from 1 January 2007; and

HK(IFRIC)-Int 10, Interim Financial Reporting and Impairment (effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 November 2006). HK(IFRIC)-Int 10 prohibits the impairment losses recognised in an interim period on goodwill and investments in equity instruments and in financial assets carried at cost to be reversed at a subsequent balance sheet date. The Group will apply HK(IFRIC)-Int 10 from 1 January 2007.

(c) Interpretations to published standards that are not yet effective and not relevant for the Group’s operations

HK(IFRIC)-Int 7, Applying the Restatement Approach under IAS/HKAS 29, Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies.

HK(IFRIC)-Int 11, HKFRS2 – Group and Treasury Share Transactions.

HK(IFRIC)-Int 12, Service Concession Arrangements.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.2Consolidation

Subsidiaries

The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries made up to 31 December. Subsidiaries are those entities in which the Company controls more than one half of the voting power; has the power to govern the financial and operating policies; to appoint or remove the majority of the members of the boardBoard of directors;Directors; or to cast the majority of votes at the meetings of the boardBoard of directors.Directors.

Inter-company transactions and balances within the Group are eliminated on consolidation. Minority interests representinterest represents the interestsinterest of outside shareholders in the operating results and net assets of subsidiaries.

The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated income statement from the date of acquisition or up to the date of disposal, as appropriate. The gains or losses on the disposal of a subsidiary represents the difference between the proceeds of the sale and the Group’s share of its net assets together with any unamortised goodwill which was not previously charged or recognised in the consolidated income statement.

Associates

Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding of between 20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in associates are accounted for by the equity method of accounting and are initially recognised at cost. The Group’s investment in associates includes goodwill (net of any accumulated impairment loss) identified on acquisition. Equity investment other than subsidiaries and associates are classified as available-for-sale securities when they are not designated to be measured at fair value through income.

The Group’s share of its associates’ post-acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the consolidated income statement, and its share of post-acquisition movements in reserves is recognised in reserves. The cumulative post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying amount of the investment. When the Group’s share of losses in an associate equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, including any other unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate.

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associates are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in the associates. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. Associates’ accounting policies have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of acquired associate at the date of acquisition. Goodwill on acquisitions of associates is included in investments in associates and is tested annually for impairment as part of the overall balance. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.3Segment reporting

Business segments provide products or services that are subject to risks and returns that are different from those of other business segments. Geographical segments provide products or services within a particular economic environment that is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of components operating in other economic environments. In accordance with the Group’s internal financial reporting, the Group has determined that business segments be presented as the primary reporting format. All assets and operations of the Group are located in the PRC, which is considered as one geographical location in an economic environment with similar risks and returns. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. Details of the segment information are presented in Note 5.

 

2.4Foreign currency translation

The functional currency of the Group’s operations is Renminbi.RMB. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at exchange rates ruling at the transaction dates. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Exchange differences arising in these cases are dealt with in the income statement.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.5Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at historical costcosts less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment loss, except for certain assets acquired prior to 1 January 1997. These assets were acquired as a result of the prior restructuring in 1996 of People’s Insurance Company of China (“PICC”), a state-owned enterprise. The restructuring created CLIC’s predecessor as a specialised life insurance subsidiary of PICC. CLIC is unable to obtain historical cost information for assets which were transferred to CLIC in that restructuring. Accordingly, these assets are stated at deemed costs less accumulated depreciation. Deemed cost is determined on the basis of a valuation performed as of 1 January 2000.losses.

The initial cost of property, plant and equipment comprises its purchase price, including import duties and non-refundable purchase taxes and any directly attributable costs of bringing the asset to its working condition and location for its intended use. The cost of major renovations is included in the carrying amount of the asset when it is probable that future economic benefits in excess of the originally assessed standard of performance of the existing asset will flow to the Group.

Assets under construction represent buildings and fixtures under construction and are stated at cost. Costs include construction and acquisition costs. No provision for depreciation is made on assets under construction until such time as the relevant assets are completed and ready for use.

Depreciation

Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis to write down the cost of each asset to its residual value over its estimated useful life as follows:

 

   Estimated useful life

Buildings

  3015 to 35 years

Leasehold improvements

Over the remaining term of the lease

Office equipment, furniture and fixtures

  5 to 10 years

Motor vehicles

  4 to 8 years

Leasehold improvements

Over the remaining term of the lease

The useful life and depreciation method is reviewed periodically to ensure that the method and period of depreciation are consistent with the expected pattern of economic benefits from items of property, plant and equipment.

Impairment and gain or loss on sales

Property, plant and equipment are reviewed for impairment losses whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised in the income statement for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of an asset’s net selling price and value in use.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.5Property, plant and equipment (continued)

The gain or loss on disposal of a property, plant and equipment is the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the relevant asset, and is recognised in the income statement.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.6Financial assets

 

2.6.aInvestment in securitiesClassification

From 1 January 2003 to 31 December 2004 theThe Group classifiedclassifies its investments in securities other than subsidiaries, as held-to-maturity securities, trading securities and non-trading securities as further described below.

(i)Held-to-maturity securities

Debt securities classified as held-to-maturity are those which the Group has the ability and positive intent to hold to maturity. Held-to-maturity securities are stated in the balance sheet at cost plus/less any premium/discount amortised to date. The premium or discount is amortised over the period to maturity and included as investment income in the income statement.

(ii)Trading securities

Debt securities and equity securities which the Group purchases with the intention to resell in the near term are classified as trading and are carried at fair value. At each balance sheet date, the net unrealised gains or losses arising from the changes in fair value of trading securities are recognised in the income statement. Profit or loss on disposal of trading securities, representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amounts, is recognised in the income statement.

(iii)Non-trading securities

Investments other than those classified as held-to-maturity or trading are defined as non-trading and are stated at fair value at the balance sheet date. Changes in the fair value of individual securities are credited or debited to the reserve until the security is sold, or is determined to be impaired. Upon disposal, the cumulative gain or loss representing the difference between the net sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the relevant securities, together with any surplus/deficit transferred from the reserve, is recognised in the income statement.

From 1 January 2005 onwards, the Group classifies its investments into the following categories: held-to-maturity securities, financial assets at fair value through income and available-for-sale securities. The classification depends on the purpose for which the investments were acquired. Management determines the classification of its investments at initial recognition. Financial assets other than investment in securities are loans and receivables which are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market other than those that the Group intends to sell in the short term or available for sale. Loans and receivables mainly comprise term deposits, policy loans, securities purchased under agreements to resell and accrued investment income as presented separately in the balance sheet.

 

 (i)Held-to-maturity securities

Held-to-maturity securities are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments and debt securities that the Group has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity.

 

 (ii)Financial assets at fair value through income

This category has two sub-categories: financial assets held for trading and those designated at fair value through income at inception. A financial asset is classified as held for trading at inception if acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the short term or if it forms part of a portfolio of financial assets in which there is evidence of short term profit-taking. Any other additional financial assets may be designated at fair value through income at inception by the Group. The Group presently has no financial assets designated at fair value through income at inception.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.6Financial assets (continued)

2.6.aInvestment in securities (continued)

 

 (iii)Available-for-sale securities

Available-for-sale securities are non-derivative financial assets that are either designated in this category or not classified in either of the other categories.

 

2.6.bRecognition and measurement

Purchases and sales of investments are recognised on trade date, – the date on which the Group commits to purchase or sell the asset.assets. Investments are initially recognised at fair value plus, in the case of all financial assets not carried at fair value through income, statement, transaction costs that are directly attributable to their acquisition. Investments are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the investments have expired or when they have been transferred and the Group has also transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership.

Available-for-sale securities and financial assets at fair value through income are carried at fair value. Held-to-maturity securities are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Investment gains and losses on sales of securities are determined principally by specific identification. Realised and unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of the “financial assets at fair value through income” category are included in the income statement in the period in which they arise. Unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value of financial assets classified as available-for-sale securities are recognised in equity. When securities classified as available-for-sale securities are sold or impaired, the accumulated fair value adjustments are included in the income statement as realised gains/losses on financial assets.

The fair values of quoted investments are based on current bid prices. If the market for a financial asset is not active, the Group establishes fair value by using valuation techniques. These include the use of recent arm’s length transactions, reference to other instruments that are substantially the same, discounted cash flow analysis and option pricing models.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.6Financial assets (continued)

 

2.6.cTerm deposits

Term deposits include both traditional bank deposits and structured deposits. Term deposits have fixed maturity dates and are stated at amortised cost.

 

2.6.dPolicy loans

Policy loans originated by the Group are carried at amortised cost, net of provision for impairment in value. All policy loans are due in 6 months.

 

2.6.eSecurities purchased under agreements to resell

The Group enters into purchases of securities under agreements to resell substantially identical securities. These agreements are classified as secured loans. Securities purchased under agreements to resell are recorded at their cost plus accrued interest at the balance sheet date, which approximates fair value. The amounts advanced under these agreements are reflected as assets in the consolidated balance sheet. The Group does not take physical possession of securities purchased under agreements to resell. Sales or transfers of the securities are not permitted by the respective clearing house on which they are registered while the loan is outstanding. In the event of default by the counterparty to repay the loan, the Group has the right to the underlying securities held by the clearing house.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.6Financial assets (continued)

 

2.6.fImpairment of financial assets other than at fair value through income

Financial assets other than those accounted for as at fair value through income are adjusted for impairments, where there are declines in value that are considered to be other than temporary. In evaluating whether a decline in value is other than temporary, the Group considers several factors including, but not limited to the following: (1) the extent and the duration of the decline; (2) the financial condition of and near-term prospects of the issuer; and (3) the Group’s ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time to allow for a recovery of value. When the decline in value is considered other than temporary, relevant financial assets are written down to their net realised value and the charge is recorded in “Net realised gains/(losses) on financial assets” in the period the impairment is recognised. The impairment loss is reversed through the income statement if in a subsequent period the fair value of a debt security increases and the increase can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised through income statement.

 

2.7Cash and cash equivalents

Cash amounts represent cash on hand and demand deposits. Cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less, which approximates fair value.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.8Insurance contracts and investment contracts

 

2.8.1Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF

 

2.8.1.aRecognition and measurement

The Group issues contracts that transfer insurance risk or financial risk or both. Insurance contracts are those contracts that transfer significant insurance risk. They may also transfer financial risk. Investment contracts are those contracts that transfer financial risk with no significant insurance risk. A number of insurance and investment contracts contain a DPF. This feature entitles the holder to receive, as a supplement to benefits under the contracts, additional benefits or bonuses that are, at least in part, discretionary to the Group.

Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF are classified into three main categories. For these contracts, there was no major change in accounting policies as a result of adoption of new HKFRS.

 

 (i)Short-term insurance contracts

Premiums from the sale of short duration accident and health insurance products are recorded when written and are accreted to earnings on a pro-rata basis over the term of the related policy coverage. The unearned premium reserve represents the portion of the premiums written relating to the unexpired terms of coverage.

Reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses represent liabilities for claims arising under short duration accident and health insurance contracts. Claims and claim adjustment expenses are charged to the income statement as incurred. Unpaid claims and claim adjustment expense reserves represent the accumulation of estimates for ultimate losses and include provisions for claims incurred but not yet reported. The reserves represent estimates of future payments of reported and unreported claims for losses and related expenses with respect to insured events that have occurred. Reserving is a complex process dealing with uncertainty, requiring the use of informed estimates and judgements. The Group does not discount its claims reserves, other than for settled claims with fixed payment terms. Any changes in estimates are reflected in results of operations in the period in which estimates are changed.

 

 (ii)Long-term traditional insurance contracts

Long-term traditional insurance contracts include whole life and term life insurance, endowment insurance and annuities policies with significant life contingency risk. Premiums are recognised as revenue when due from policyholders. Benefits and expenses are provided against such revenue to recognise profits over the estimated life of the policies. Hence, for single premium and limited paypayment contracts, premiums are recorded as income when due with the percent-of-premium profit margin deferred and recognised in income in a constant relationship to the amount of insurance in-force for life insurance contracts and the amount of expected benefit payments for annuities.

Liabilities arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts comprise a policyholder reserve based on the net level premium valuation method and actuarial assumptions as to mortality, persistency, expenses, withdrawals, and investment return including, where appropriate a provision for adverse deviation, and a deferred profit liability for the deferred percent-of- premiumpercent-of-premium profit margin, as described in Note 2.9. The assumptions are established at policy issue and remain unchanged unless adverse experience causes a deficiency in liability adequacy test as described in Note 2.8.1.c.2.8.1.b.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.8Insurance contracts and investment contracts (continued)

 

2.8.1Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF (continued)

 

2.8.1.aRecognition and measurement (continued)

(iii)   Long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF

Long-term investment type insurance contracts include life insurance and annuity contracts with significant investment features but with sufficiently significant insurance risk to still be considered insurance contracts under HKFRS 4.

During 2005, HKFRS 4 was adopted. HKFRS 4 permits the existing accounting policies to be applied to all contracts deemed to be insurance contracts under HKFRS 4. As a result, these long-termLong-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF continue to beare accounted for as follows: revenue from these contractsa contract consists of various charges (policy fees, handling fees, management fees, surrender charges) made against the contract for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrender. Excess first year charges are deferred as an unearned revenue liability and are recognised in income over the life of the contracts in a constant relationship to estimated gross profits (as defined below in section 2.8.1.b)Note 2.8.3). To the extent unrealised gains or losses from available-for-sale securities affect the estimated gross profits, shadow adjustments are recognised in equity. Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expenses include benefit claims incurred in the year in excess of related contract balances and interest credited to these contracts.

The policyholder liability for long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF represents the accumulation of premium received less charges, as described above.

 

2.8.1.b Deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”)

The costs of acquiring new and renewal business including commissions, underwriting and policy issue expenses, which vary with and are primarily related to the production of new and renewal business, are deferred. DAC are subject to recoverability testing at the time of policy issue and at the end of each accounting period. Future investment income is taken into account in assessing recoverability.

DAC for long-term traditional insurance contracts are amortised over the premium paying period as a constant percentage of expected premiums. Expected premiums are based upon assumptions defined at the date of policy issue. These assumptions are consistently applied throughout the premium paying period unless adverse experience causes a deficiency in liability adequacy test as described in Note 2.8.1.c.

DAC for long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF are amortised over the expected life of the contracts as a constant percent of the present value of estimated gross profits expected to be realised over the life of the contract. To the extent unrealised gains or losses from available-for-sale securities affect the estimated gross profits, shadow adjustments are recognised in the shareholders’ equity. Estimated gross profits include expected amounts to be assessed for mortality, administration, investment and surrender less benefit claims in excess of policyholder balances, administrative expenses and interest credited. Estimated gross profits are revised regularly and the future interest rate used to compute the present value of revised estimates of expected gross profits is the latest revised rate applied to the remaining benefit periods. Deviations of actual results from estimated experience are reflected in the income statement.

2.8.1.cLiability adequacy test

At each balance sheet date, liability adequacy tests are performed to ensure the adequacy of the contract liabilities net of related DAC. In performing these tests, current best estimates of future cash flows for each category of contracts are used to determine any deficiency for those contracts. Any deficiency is immediately charged to income statement initially by writing off DAC and by subsequently establishing a provision for losses arising from liability adequacy tests (the unexpired risk provision).

Any DAC written off as a result of the liability adequacy test cannot be subsequently reinstated.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.8Insurance contracts and investment contracts (continued)

 

2.8.1Insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF (continued)

 

2.8.1.d 2.8.1.cReinsurance contracts held

Contracts with reinsurers under which the Group is compensated for losses on one or more contracts issued by the Group and that meet the classification requirements for insurance contracts are classified as reinsurance contracts held. Contracts with reinsurers that do not meet these classification requirements are classified as financial assets. Insurance contracts entered into by the Group under which the contract holder is another insurer (inwards reinsurance) are included with insurance contracts.

The benefits to which the Group is entitled under its reinsurance contracts held are recognised as reinsurance assets. Amounts recoverable from or due to reinsurers are measured consistently with the amounts associated with the reinsured insurance contracts and in accordance with the terms of each reinsurance contract. Reinsurance liabilities are primarily premiums payable for reinsurance contracts and are recognised as an expense when due. In certain cases a reinsurance contract is entered into for existing in-force business. Where the premium due to the reinsurer differs from the liability established by the Group for the related business, the difference is amortised over the estimated remaining settlement period.

The Group assesses its reinsurance assets for impairment as at the balance sheet date. If there is objective evidence that the reinsurance asset is impaired, the Group reduces the carrying amount of the reinsurance asset to its recoverable amount and recognises that impairment loss in the income statement. If a reinsurer is unable to satisfy its obligation under the reinsurance contracts, the liability becomebecomes the responsibility of the Group.

 

2.8.1.e 2.8.1.dDPF in long-term insurance contracts and investment contracts

DPF is contained in certain long-term insurance contracts and investment contracts. These contracts are collectively called participating contracts. The Group is obligated to pay to the policyholders of participating contracts at least 70% of distributable surplus, which includes interestmainly net investment income and realised gains and losses arising from the assets supporting these contracts; if this eligible surplus has not been declared and paid, it is included in the policyholder dividends payable. The policyholders’ share of unrealised gains or losses in respect of assets held by the Group, which may be paid to participating policyholders in the future under the policy terms in respect of assets, is also included in the policyholder dividends payable.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.8Insurance contracts and investment contracts (continued)

 

2.8.2Investment contracts without DPF

Investment contracts without DPF are not considered to be insurance contracts and are accounted for as a financial liability. The liability for investment contracts without DPF represents the accumulation of premium received less charges.

Revenue from these contracts consists of various charges (policy fees, handling fees, management fees and surrender charges) made against the contract for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrender. Excess first year charges are deferred as an unearned revenue liability and are recognised in income over the life of the contracts in a constant relationship to estimated gross profits (defined in section 2.8.1.b)Note 2.8.3). Policy benefits and claims that are charged to expenses include benefit claims incurred in the year in excess of related contract balances and interest credited to these contracts.

2.8.3Deferred policy acquisition costs (“DAC”)

The costs of acquiring new and renewal business including commissions, underwriting and policy issue expenses, which vary with and are primarily related to the production of new and renewal business, are deferred. DAC are subject to recoverability testing at the time of policy issue and at the end of each accounting period. Future investment income is taken into account in assessing recoverability.

DAC for long-term traditional insurance contracts are amortised over the premium paying period as a constant percentage of expected premiums. Expected premiums are based upon assumptions defined at the date of policy issue. These assumptions are consistently applied throughout the premium paying period unless adverse experience causes a deficiency in liability adequacy test as described in Note 2.8.1.b.

DAC for long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts are amortised over the expected life of the contracts as a constant percent of the present value of estimated gross profits expected to be realised over the life of the contract. To the extent unrealised gains or losses from available-for-sale securities affect the estimated gross profits, shadow adjustments are recognised in the shareholders’ equity. Estimated gross profits include expected amounts to be assessed for mortality, administration, investment and surrender less benefit claims in excess of policyholder balances, administrative expenses and interest credited. Estimated gross profits are revised regularly and the future interest rate used to compute the present value of revised estimates of expected gross profits is the latest revised rate applied to the remaining benefit periods. Deviations of actual results from estimated experience are reflected in the income statement.

 

2.9Deferred income

Deferred income includes the deferred profit liability arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts and the unearned revenue liability arising from long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts with DPF.contracts. Both are described in Note 2.8.1.a.2.8.1.a and Note 2.8.2. Both deferred income amounts will be released to income statement over the remaining lifetime of the business. These amounts were previously included in the liability for future life policyholder benefits.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.10Securities sold with agreements to repurchase

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase, which are classified as secured borrowings, generally mature within 180 days from the transaction date. The Group may be required to provide additional collateral based on the fair value of the underlying securities. Securities sold under agreements to repurchase are recorded at their cost plus accrued interest at the balance sheet date. It is the Group’s policy to maintain effective control over securities sold under agreements to repurchase which includes maintaining physical possession of the securities. Accordingly, such securities continue to be carried on the consolidated balance sheets.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

2.11Employee benefits

Pension benefits

The full-time employees of the Group are covered by various government-sponsored pension plans under which the employees are entitled to a monthly pension based on certain formulas. These government agencies are responsible for the pension liability to these retired employees. The Group contributes on a monthly basis to these pension plans. Under these plans, the Group has no legal or constructive obligation for retirement benefits beyond the contributions made. Contributions to these plans are expensed as incurred. Voluntary payments made to certain former employees and which were not made pursuant to a formal or informal plan are expensed as paid.

Termination and early retirement benefits

Termination benefits are payable whenever an employee’s employment is terminated before the normal retirement date or whenever an employee accepts voluntary redundancy in exchange for these benefits. The Group recognised termination benefits when it is demonstrably committed to either terminate the employment of current employees according to a detailed formal plan without possibility of withdrawal or to provide termination benefits as a result of an offer made to encourage voluntary redundancy. Benefits falling due more than 12 months after balance sheet date are discounted to present value using incremental borrowing rates available to the Group.

Housing benefits

All full-time employees of the Group are entitled to participate in various government-sponsored housing funds. The Group contributes on a monthly basis to these funds based on certain percentages of the salaries of the employees. The Group’s liability in respect of these funds is limited to the contributions payable in each year.

 

2.12Share capital

Shares are classified as equity when there is no obligation to transfer cash or other assets. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of equity instruments are shown in equity as a deduction from the proceeds.

2.13Revenue recognition

Turnover of the Group represents the total revenues.

Premium and policy fees

Premiums from long-term traditional life insurance contracts are recognised as revenue when due from the policyholders. Revenue from long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts consists of policy fees, handling fees, management fees and surrender charges assessed for the cost of insurance, expenses and early surrenders during the year which are recognised when due.

Premiums from the sale of short-term accident and health insurance contracts are recorded when written and are accreted to earnings on a pro-rata basis over the term of the related policy coverage. Contracts for which the period of risk differs significantly from the contract period recognise premiums over the period of risk in proportion to the amount of insurance protection provided.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.12Revenue recognition (continued)

Net investment income

Net investment income is comprised of interest income from term deposits, cash and cash equivalents, debt securities, securities purchased under agreements to resell and policy loans, and dividend income from equity securities less interest expense from securities sold under agreements to repurchase and investment expenses. Interest income is recorded on an accrual basis using the effective interest rate method. Dividend income is recognised when the right to receive dividend payment is established.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2.132SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

2.14Deferred taxation

Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Currently enacted tax rates are used in the determination of deferred income tax.

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be recognised.

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

2.142.15Operating leases

Leases where substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of assets remain with the leasing company are accounted for as operating leases. Payments under operating leases are charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the lease periods.

 

2.152.16Contingencies

A contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events and whose existence will only be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events not wholly within the control of the Group. It can also be a present obligation arising from past events that is not recognised because it is not probable that outflow of economic resources will be required or the amount of obligation cannot be measured reliably.

A contingent liability is not recognised in the balance sheet but is disclosed in the notes to the financial statements. When a change in the probability of an outflow occurs so that outflow is probable and can be reliably measured, it will then be recognised as a provision.

 

2.162.17Dividend distribution

Dividend distribution to the Company’s shareholders is recognised as a liability in the Group’s financial statements in the periodyear in which the dividends are approved by the Company’s shareholders.

 

2.172.18ComparativesStock appreciation rights

The Group previously disclosed “proceeds from investment in securities soldCompensation under agreements to repurchase, net” within “cash flow from investing activities” in cash flow statement. Managementthe stock appreciation rights is measured based on the fair value of the Group believes that their inclusionliabilities incurred and is expensed over the vesting period. Valuation techniques including option pricing models are used to estimate fair value of relevant liabilities. The liability is remeasured at each balance sheet date to its fair value until settlement with all changes included in “cash flow from financing activities”administrative expenses in cash flowthe consolidated income statement, the related liability is a fairer representation of the Group’s activities.included in other liabilities.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS IN APPLYING ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The Group makes estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities. Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

 

3.1Estimate of future benefit payments and premiums arising from long-term traditional insurance contracts and related deferred policy acquisition costs

The determination of the liabilities under long-term traditional insurance contracts is dependent on estimates made by the Group. For the long-term traditional insurance contracts, estimates are made in two stages. Assumptions about mortality rates, morbidity rates, lapse rates, investment returns, and administration and claim settlement expenses are made at inception of the contract. A provision for adverse deviation in experience is added to the assumptions, where appropriate. Assumptions are “locked in” for the duration of the contract. New estimates are made each subsequent year in order to determine whether the previous liabilities are adequate in the light of these latest estimates. If the liabilities are considered adequate, the assumptions are not altered. If they are not adequate, the assumptions are altered (“unlocked”) first by reducing the provision for adverse deviation and then by reflecting current best estimate assumptions. A key feature of the adequacy testing for these contracts is that the effects of changes in the assumptions on the measurement of the liabilities and related assets are not symmetrical. Any improvements in experience will have no impact on the value of the liabilities and related assets until the liabilities are derecognised. However, significant deterioration in experience can lead to an immediate increase in the liabilities.

Investment return assumptions are based on estimates of future yields on the Group’s investments as described in Note 13.14. If the investment return assumptions in all years were 1% lower or higher than the above, the insurance liabilities would increase by RMB8,885RMB12,918 million or decrease by RMB8,557 million.RMB11,302 million respectively. In these cases, there is no relief arising from reinsurance contracts held.

Estimates are made for mortality and morbidity rates in each of the years that the Group is exposed to risk. The assumed mortality rates and morbidity rates are described in Note 13.14. Where the mortality rates increased or decreased by 10% from current assumptions, the liability would increase by RMB257RMB336 million or decrease by RMB263RMB344 million respectively. Where the morbidity rates increased or decreased by 10% from management’s estimate, the liability would increase by RMB310RMB395 million or decrease by RMB310RMB395 million respectively.

The assumption for policy administration expenses has been based on expected unit costs plus, where applicable, a margin for adverse deviation as described in Note 13.14.

 

3.2Liability adequacy test

At each balance sheet date, liability adequacy tests are performed to ensure the adequacy of the insurance contract liabilities net of related DAC. In performing these tests, current best estimates of future cash flows under the contracts are used. As set out in Note 3.1 above, liability assumptions for long-term traditional insurance contracts are defined at the inception of the contract. When the liability adequacy test requires the adoption of new best estimate assumptions, such assumptions (without margins for adverse deviation) are used for the subsequent measurement of these liabilities. Any DAC written off as a result of this test cannot subsequently be reinstated.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS IN APPLYING ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

 

3.3Investments

The Group’s principal investments are debt securities, equity securities and term deposits. The critical estimates and judgments are those associated with the recognition of impairment and the determination of fair value.

The Group considers a wide range of factors in the impairment assessment as described in Note 2.6.f.

Fair value is defined as the amount at which the financial assets and liabilities could be exchanged in a current transaction between knowledgeable willing parties in an arm’s length transaction, rather than in a forced or liquidation sale. The methods and assumptions used by the Group in estimating the fair value of the financial assets and liabilities are:

 

Debt securities: fair values are generally based upon current bid prices. Where current bid prices are not readily available, fair values are estimated using either prices observed in recent transactions, values obtained from current bid prices of comparable investments and valuation techniques when the market is not active.

 

Equity securities: fair values are based on current bid prices.

 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits), and securities purchased or sold under agreements to resell or repurchase: the carrying amounts of these assets in the balance sheet approximate fair values.

 

Structured deposits: the market for structured deposits is not active, the Group establishes fair value by using discounted cash flow analysis and option pricing models as the valuation technique. The Group uses the US$ swap rate (the benchmark rate) to determine the fair value of financial instruments. Due to the complexity of structured deposits, significant judgement and estimates are involved in the absence of quoted market values. These estimates are based on valuation methodologies and assumptions deemed appropriate in the circumstances.

 

Policy loans: the carrying values for policy loans approximate fair value.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

4MANAGEMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL RISK

The Group issues contracts that transfer insurance risk or financial risk or both. This section summarises these risks and the way the Group manages them.

 

4.1Insurance risk

The risk under any one insurance contract is the possibility that an insured event occurs and there is uncertainty about the amount of the resulting claim. By the very nature of an insurance contract, this risk is random and therefore unpredictable. For a portfolio of insurance contracts where the theory of probability is applied to pricing and provisioning, the principal risk that the Group faces under its insurance contracts is that the actual claims and benefit payments exceed the carrying amount of the insurance liabilities. This occurs when the frequency or severity of claims and benefits exceeds the estimates. Insurance events are random and the actual number of claims and the amount of benefits paid will vary each year from estimates established using statistical techniques.

Experience shows that the larger the portfolio of similar insurance contracts, the smaller the relative variability about the expectexpected outcome will be. In addition, a more diversified portfolio is less likely to be affected across the board by a change in any subset of the portfolio. The Group has developed its insurance underwriting strategy to diversify the type of insurance risks accepted and within each of these categories to achieve a sufficiently large population of risks to reduce the variability of the expected outcome. The Group manages insurance risk through underwriting strategy, reinsurance arrangements and claims handling.

The Group has entered into two major reinsurance agreements. One agreement cedes 35% of the business associated with a critical illness product to a reinsurer on a quota share basis. The other agreement, written on a surplus basis, reinsures the Group for losses above a specified amount, which is RMB1 million per person for life insurance, RMB1 million per person for accident insurance and RMB0.3 million per person for health insurance. These agreements spread insured risk and reduce the effect of potential losses to the Group.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

4MANAGEMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL RISK (continued)RISK(continued)

 

4.1Insurance risk (continued)

The Group offers life insurance, annuity, accident and health insurance products. All operations of the Group are located in the PRC. The table below presents the Group’s major products of long-term traditional insurance contracts:

 

  2005 2004 
  RMB million  % RMB million  % 

Product name

         2006 2005 
  RMB million  % RMB million  % 

Premium

              

Kang Ning Whole Life *

  21,425  33.4% 18,014  35.7%  26,079  32.0% 21,425  33.4%

Hong Xin endowment *

  20,994  32.8% 12,279  24.3%

Others

  21,653  33.8% 20,164  40.0%
             

Total

  64,072  100.0% 50,457  100.0%
             

Insurance benefits

       

Qian Xi endowment *

  3,222  38.8% 2,359  34.6%

Kang Ning Whole Life *

  2,121  25.5% 1,668  24.5%

Hong Xin Endowment *

  26,781  33.0% 20,994  32.8%

Qian Xi Endowment *

  6,298  7.8% 6,344  9.9%

Others

  2,968  35.7% 2,789  40.9%  22,072  27.2% 15,309  23.9%
                          

Total

  8,311  100.0% 6,816  100.0%  81,230  100.0% 64,072  100.0%
                          
       

Insurance benefits

       

Kang Ning Whole Life *

  2,498  23.1% 2,121  25.5%

Hong Xin Endowment *

  1,368  12.7% 631  7.6%

Qian Xi Endowment *

  2,454  22.7% 3,222  38.8%

Others

  4,477  41.5% 2,337  28.1%
             

Total

  10,797  100.0% 8,311  100.0%
  2005 2004              
  RMB million  % RMB million  %        

Liabilities of long-term traditional insurance contracts

              

Kang Ning Whole Life *

  42,859  34.4% 31,822  35.5%  57,406  33.2% 42,859  34.4%

Hong Xin endowment *

  21,549  17.3% 8,480  9.5%

Other

  60,248  48.3% 49,396  55.0%

Hong Xin Endowment *

  37,647  21.8% 21,549  17.3%

Qian Xi Endowment *

  23,700  13.7% 21,232  17.0%

Others

  54,122  31.3% 39,016  31.3%
                          

Total

  124,656  100.0% 89,698  100.0%  172,875  100.0% 124,656  100.0%
                          

*Hong Xin endowment and Qian Xi endowment are two major long-term individual endowment traditional insurance contracts with DPF. Kang Ning Whole lifeLife is the biggest long-term individual whole life traditional insurance contract.contract with options of premium term of single, 10 years or 20 years. Its critical illness benefit accounts for 200% of basic sum insured. Both death and disability benefit are paid at 300% basic sum insured less any paid critical illness benefit.

*Hong Xin Endowment is long-term individual endowment traditional insurance contract with options of premium term of single, 3 years, 5 years or 10 years. The insured can be benefited up to age of 80. Its endowment benefit accounts for 9% of basic sum insured every three years. Death and maturity benefit are paid at 200% and 150% of basic sum insured, respectively.

*Qian Xi Endowment is long-term individual endowment traditional insurance contract with options of premium term of single, 10 years, 20 years or 30 years. The benefit term is whole life. Its endowment benefit accounts for 5% of basic sum insured every three years and death benefit is increased by 5% of basic sum insured every year that renewal premium is paid.

For long-term investment type insurance contracts, Hong Feng Endowment is the major product provided by the Group in 2005. Hong Feng Endowment had RMB34,915with RMB47,742 million of deposits in 2005,2006 (2005: RMB34,915 million), representing 67.7% (2005: 55.5% of total received deposits of long-term investment type insurance contracts. Hong Tai Endowment and Hong Rui Endowment are the major products of long-term investment type insurance contracts provided by the Group in 2004. Hong Tai Endowment had RMB36,357 million of deposits in 2004, 54.0% of total received deposits of long-term investment type insurance contracts. Hong Rui Endowment had RMB17,521 million of deposits in 2004, 26.0%) of total received deposits of long-term investment type insurance contracts.

Participating contracts for the year ended 31 December 20052006 represented approximately 50%52% and 50%52% of gross and net life insurance premium and policy fees, respectively (2004:(2005: 50% and 50%, 2004: 47% and 47%, 2003: 44% and 44%). The net investment income, net realised gains/(losses) on financial assets and net fair value gains/(losses)gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading) attributable to participating contracts in 20052006 are RMB11,102RMB16,600 million, RMB849 million and RMB16,149 million respectively (2005: RMB 11,102 million, RMB(318) million and RMB98 million respectively (2004:million; 2004: RMB7,140 million, RMB76 million and RMB(913) million; 2003: RMB4,004 million, RMB171 million and RMB(57) million).

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

4MANAGEMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL RISK (continued)

 

4.2Financial risk

The Group’s activities expose itare exposed to a variety of financial risks. The key financial risk is that proceeds from the sale of financial assets will not be sufficient to fund obligations arising from the Group’s insurance and investment contracts. The most important components of financial risk are interest rate risk, market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.

The Group’s overall risk management program focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the financial performance of the Group. Risk management is carried out by a designated department under policies approved by management. The responsible department identifies, evaluates and hedges financial risks in close cooperation with the Group’s operating units. The Group provides written principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as managing interest rate risk, market risk, credit risk, and liquidity risk.

(i) Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market interest rates. The Group’s financial assets are principally comprised of term deposits and debt securities. Changes in level of interest rates can have a significant impact on the Group’s overall investment return. Many of the Group’s insurance policies offer guaranteed returns to policyholders. These guarantees expose the Group to interest rate risk.

The Group manages interest rate risk through adjustments to portfolio structure and duration, and, to the extent possible, by monitoring the mean duration of its assets and liabilities.

The table below summaries the effective interest raterates at the balance sheet date rate across major applicable financial assets and financial liabilities.

 

As at 31 December  2005 2004   2006 2005 

Financial assets other than at fair value through income

      

Debt securities

      
- held-to-maturity securities  4.6% 4.7%  4.5% 4.6%
- available-for-sale securities/non-trading securities  3.7% 3.4%

- available-for-sale securities

  3.6% 3.7%

Term deposits

  4.1% 4.3%  4.3% 4.1%

Cash and cash equivalents

  3.0% 1.6%  1.8% 3.0%

Investment contracts with DPF

  2.5% 2.5%  2.5% 2.5%

Investment contracts without DPF

  2.3% 2.4%  1.9% 2.3%

The interest rates that are used to measure long-term traditional insurance contracts are disclosed in Note 13.14.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

4MANAGEMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL RISK (continued)

 

4.2Financial risk (continued)

(i) Interest rate risk (continued)

The following table summaries the major financial assets and liabilities subject to interest rate risk at their contractual or estimated maturity date:

 

As at 31 December 2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  2010  Thereafter  Total
   (RMB million)

Debt securities at carrying value

              

-fixed rate

  9,460  4,084  4,355  28,980  6,669  183,587  237,135

-variable rate

  377  567  16  6,284  3,262  7,913  18,419

Term deposits

              

-fixed rate

  6,133  1,845  2,489  100  60  4,479  15,106

-variable rate

  4,430  51,350  44,240  41,100  6,320  2,323  149,763

Cash and cash equivalents

  28,051  —    —    —    —    —    28,051
                     

Total

  48,451  57,846  51,100  76,464  16,311  198,302  448,474
                     

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  188  10  12  19  23  124,404  124,656

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  7,612  47,013  57,987  47,880  37,099  39,410  237,001

Investment contracts

              

- with DPF

  6,390  632  612  828  959  32,809  42,230

- without DPF

  178  224  664  18  24  764  1,872

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,731  —    —    —    —    —    4,731
                     

Total

  19,099  47,879  59,275  48,745  38,105  197,387  410,490
                     

As at 31 December 2004  2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  Thereafter  Total
As at 31 December 2006  2007  2008  2009  2010  2011  Thereafter  Total
  (RMB million)  (RMB million)

Debt securities at carrying value

                            

-fixed rate

  1,147  5,549  5,505  5,066  26,424  88,855  132,546  9,054  4,323  28,774  5,802  29,543  259,163  336,659

-variable rate

  —    2,300  666  446  6,129  8,147  17,688  431  16  6,338  3,531  2,066  8,857  21,239

Term deposits

                            

-fixed rate

  5,505  200  1,845  2,200  265  15,400  25,415  5,799  2,481  100  60  16,600  3,708  28,748

-variable rate

  2,300  3,527  51,350  45,640  41,266  6,000  150,083  52,131  44,240  41,100  6,320  1,000  1,937  146,728

Securities purchased under agreement to resell

  279  —    —    —    —    —    279

Statutory deposits-restricted

  —    5,353  —    —    —    —    5,353

Cash and cash equivalents

  27,217  —    —    —    —    —    27,217  50,213  —    —    —    —    —    50,213
                                          

Total

  36,448  11,576  59,366  53,352  74,084  118,402  353,228  117,628  56,413  76,312  15,713  49,209  273,665  588,940
                                          

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  1,172  215  223  209  237  87,642  89,698  563  29  48  61  72  172,102  172,875

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  1,815  6,841  46,978  60,485  48,950  26,816  191,885  49,555  55,975  44,115  36,572  53,954  42,501  282,672

Investment contracts

                            

- with DPF

  2,166  447  447  440  558  28,418  32,476  2,492  564  766  941  1,034  40,201  45,998

- without DPF

  72  124  293  12  16  1,118  1,635  281  541  695  16  16  1,065  2,614

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  8,227  —    —    —    —    —    8,227
                                          

Total

  5,225  7,627  47,941  61,146  49,761  143,994  315,694  61,118  57,109  45,624  37,590  55,076  255,869  512,386
                                          
As at 31 December 2005  2006  2007  2008  2009  2010  Thereafter  Total
  (RMB million)

Debt securities at carrying value

              

-fixed rate

  9,460  4,084  4,355  28,980  6,669  183,587  237,135

-variable rate

  377  567  16  6,284  3,262  7,913  18,419

Term deposits

              

-fixed rate

  6,133  1,845  2,489  100  60  4,479  15,106

-variable rate

  4,430  51,350  44,240  41,100  6,320  2,323  149,763

Statutory deposits-restricted

  —    —    5,353  —    —    —    5,353

Cash and cash equivalents

  28,051  —    —    —    —    —    28,051
                     

Total

  48,451  57,846  56,453  76,464  16,311  198,302  453,827
                     

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  188  10  12  19  23  124,404  124,656

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  7,612  47,013  57,987  47,880  37,099  39,410  237,001

Investment contracts

              

- with DPF

  6,390  632  612  828  959  32,809  42,230

- without DPF

  178  224  664  18  24  764  1,872

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,731  —    —    —    —    —    4,731
                     

Total

  19,099  47,879  59,275  48,745  38,105  197,387  410,490
                     

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

4MANAGEMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL RISK (continued)

 

4.2Financial risk (continued)

(ii) Market risk

The Group’s investments principally include term deposits, debt securities and equity securities. Prices of debt and equity securities are determined by market forces. The Group is subject to increased market risk largely because China’s bond and stock markets are relatively unstable.volatile.

The Group manages market risk by holding an appropriately diversified investment portfolio as permitted by laws and regulations designed to reduce the risk of concentration in any one specific industry or issuer.

The Group operates principally in the PRC except for limited exposure to foreign exchange rate risk arisearising primarily with respect to structured deposits, debt securities and common stock denominated in US dollar (“US$”) or HK dollar (“HK$”).

The following table summaries financial assets denominated in currencies other than RMB as at 31 December 20052006 and 2004.2005.

 

As at 31 December 2006 US$ HK$ Total
  US$  HK$  Total RMB million RMB million RMB million
At 31 December 2005  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Equity securities

  —    2,295  2,295 —   6,884 6,884

Debt securities

  1,025  —    1,025 3,334 —   3,334

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

  242  —    242 3,358 —   3,358

Structured deposits

  4,802  —    4,802 4,646 —   4,646

Cash and cash equivalents

  15,502  212  15,714 5,083 82 5,165
               

Total

  21,571  2,507  24,078 16,421 6,966 23,387
               
As at 31 December 2005 US$ HK$ Total
  US$  HK$  Total RMB million RMB million RMB million
At 31 December 2004  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Equity securities

 —   2,295 2,295

Debt securities

 1,025 —   1,025

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

  5,462  —    5,462 242 —   242

Structured deposits

  4,800  —    4,800 4,802 —   4,802

Cash and cash equivalents

  15,237  316  15,553 15,502 212 15,714
               

Total

  25,499  316  25,815 21,571 2,507 24,078
               

(iii) Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk that one party to a financial transaction or the issuer of a financial instrument will fail to discharge an obligation and cause another party to incur a financial loss. Because the Group is limited in the types of investments as permitted by China Insurance Regulatory Commission (“CIRC”) and a significant portion of the portfolio is in government bonds, government agency bonds and term deposits with the state-owned commercial banks, the Group’s exposure to credit risk is relatively low.

Credit risk is controlled by the application of credit approvals, limits and monitoring procedures. The Group manages credit risk through in-house fundamental analysis of the Chinese economy and the underlying obligors and transaction structures. Where appropriate, the Group obtains collateral in the form of rights to cash, securities, property and equipment.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

4MANAGEMENT OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL RISK (continued)

 

4.2Financial risk (continued)

(iv) Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not have access to sufficient funds to meet its liabilities as they become due.

In the normal course of business, the Group attempts to match the maturity of investment assets to the maturity of insurance liabilities.

 

5SEGMENT INFORMATION

 

5.1Business segments

The Group has the following main business segments:

(i) Individual life insurance business

(i)Individual life insurance business

Individual life insurance business relates primarily to the sale of insurance contracts and investment contracts to individuals and comprises participating and traditionalnon-participating business. Participating life insurance business relates primarily to the sale of participating contracts, which provides the policyholder with a participation in the profits arising from the invested assets relating to the policy and mortality gains, as described in Note 2.8.1.e. Traditional life2.8.1.d. Non-participating insurance business relates primarily to non-participating life insurance and annuity products, which provides guaranteed benefits to the insured without a participation in the profits.

(ii) Group life insurance business

(ii)Group life insurance business

Group life insurance business relates primarily to the sale of insurance contracts and investment contracts to group entities and comprises participating life insurance business and traditional life insurancenon-participating business as described above.

(iii) Accident and health insurance business

(iii)Accident and health insurance business

Accident and health insurance business relates primarily to the sale of accident and health insurance and accident only products.

(iv) Corporate and other

(iv)Corporate and other

Corporate and other business relates primarily to income and expenses in respect of the provision of the services to CLIC, as described in Note 27,29 and unallocated income taxes.

 

5.2Basis of allocating net investment income, realised and unrealised gains or losses and administrative and other operating expenses

Net investment income, net realised gains or losses on financial assets/net realisedrealized losses on investments, net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income/income (held-for-trading)/net unrealised losses on trading securities and foreign exchange losslosses within other operating expenses are allocated among segments in proportion to each respective segment’s average statutory policyholder reserve and claims provision at the beginning and end of the year. Administrative and other operating expenses are allocated among segments in proportion to the unit cost of products in the respective segments.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

5SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

 

   For the year ended 31 December 2005   For the year ended 31 December 2006 
   Individual
life
 Group
life
 Accident &
Health
 Corporate &
other
 Total   

Individual

life

 Group life 

Accident &

Health

 

Corporate &

other

 Total 
   (RMB million)   (RMB million) 
Revenues               

Gross written premiums and policy fees

   68,888  1,267  10,867  —    81,022   86,587  1,740  11,090  —    99,417 
   

Gross written premiums

   63,205  867  —    —         80,086  1,144  —    —        

-Term Life

   184  24  —    —        177  26  —    —      

-Whole Life

   23,310  674  —    —        28,079  886  —    —      

-Endowment

   35,480  —    —    —        43,583  —    —    —      

-Annuity

   4,231  169  —    —        8,247  232  —    —      
    

Policy fees

   5,683  400  —    —          6,501  596  —    —        

Net premiums earned and policy fees

   68,749  1,257  10,032  —    80,038   86,519  1,735  10,593  —    98,847 

Net investment income

   14,682  1,788  215  —    16,685   22,215  2,462  265  —    24,942 

Net realised losses on financial assets

   (448) (55) (7) —    (510)

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income

   229  28  3  —    260 

Net realised gains on financial assets

  1,421  157  17  —    1,595 

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  17,852  1,979  213  —    20,044 

Other income

   —    —    —    1,739  1,739   —    —    —    1,883  1,883 
                                 
Segment revenues   83,212  3,018  10,243  1,739  98,212   128,007  6,333  11,088  1,883  147,311 
                                 
Benefits, claims and expenses               

Insurance benefits and claims

               

Life insurance death and other benefits

   (7,744) (567) —    —    (8,311)  (10,125) (672) —    —    (10,797)

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

   —    —    (6,847) —    (6,847)  —    —    (6,999) —    (6,999)

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

   (33,550) (427) —    —    (33,977)  (43,915) (323) —    —    (44,238)

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

   (4,867) (27) —    —    (4,894)  (6,365) (21) —    —    (6,386)

Interest credited to investment contracts

   —    (973) —    —    (973)  —    (996) —    —    (996)

Increase in deferred income

   (8,484) (37) —    —    (8,521)  (11,307) (300) —    —    (11,607)

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits

   (4,965) (394) —    —    (5,359)  (15,536) (2,081) —    —    (17,617)

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

   (6,955) (544) (267) —    (7,766)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs expensed in the year

   (1,350) (68) (427) —    (1,845)

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  (9,391) (265) (603) —    (10,259)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs

  (1,822) (40) (553) —    (2,415)

Administrative expenses

   (3,863) (415) (1,338) (1,621) (7,237)  (5,109) (699) (1,855) (1,676) (9,339)

Other operating expenses

   (646) (78) (29) (45) (798)  (629) (71) (21) (138) (859)

Statutory insurance fund

   (118) (1) (55) —    (174)  (145) (1) (48) —    (194)
                                 
Segment benefits, claims and expenses   (72,542) (3,531) (8,963) (1,666) (86,702)  (104,344) (5,469) (10,079) (1,814) (121,706)
                                 
Segment results   10,670  (513) 1,280  73  11,510   23,663  864  1,009  69  25,605 
                                 

Income tax expenses

   —    —    —    (2,145) (2,145)  —    —    —    (5,554) (5,554)
                                 
Net profit/(loss)   10,670  (513) 1,280  (2,072) 9,365   23,663  864  1,009  (5,485) 20,051 
                                 

Attributable to:

        

Attributable to

       

- shareholders of the Company

   10,670  (513) 1,280  (2,131) 9,306   23,663  864  1,009  (5,580) 19,956 

- minority interest

   —    —    —    59  59   —    —    —    95  95 
                                 

Unrealised gains included in shareholders’ equity

   3,997  487  58  —    4,542   11,452  1,270  137  —    12,859 
                                 

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

5SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

 

  As at 31 December 2005  As at 31 December 2006
  Individual
life
  

Group

life

  Accident &
Health
  Corporate &
other
  Total  Individual
life
  Group
life
  Accident &
Health
  

Corporate &

other

  Total
  ( RMB million )  ( RMB million )
Assets                    

Financial assets

  416,310  50,713  6,095  —    473,118  574,503  63,685  6,864  —    645,052

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  36,229  909  603  —    37,741  37,591  845  794  —    39,230

Cash and cash equivalents

  24,683  3,007  361  —    28,051  44,721  4,958  534  —    50,213
                              
Segment assets  477,222  54,629  7,059  —    538,910  656,815  69,488  8,192  —    734,495
                              

Unallocated

                    

Property, plant and equipment

          12,710          14,565

Other assets

          7,599          15,335
                      

Total

          559,219          764,395
                      
Liabilities                    

Insurance contracts

                    

Short-term insurance contracts:

                    

- reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  —    —    1,784  —    1,784  —    —    2,498  —    2,498

- unearned premium reserves

  —    —    5,147  —    5,147  —    —    5,346  —    5,346

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  123,457  1,199  —    —    124,656  170,954  1,921  —    —    172,875

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  235,847  1,154  —    —    237,001  281,847  825  —    —    282,672

Deferred income

  34,104  527  —    —    34,631  40,744  627  —    —    41,371

Financial liabilities

                    

Investment contracts

                    

- with DPF

  —    42,230  —    —    42,230  —    45,998  —    —    45,998

- without DPF

  —    1,872  —    —    1,872  —    2,614  —    —    2,614

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,163  507  61  —    4,731  7,327  812  88  —    8,227
                              

Segment liabilities

  397,571  47,489  6,992  —    452,052  500,872  52,797  7,932  —    561,601
                              

Unallocated

                    

Other liabilities

          26,358          62,589
                      

Total

          478,410          624,190
                      

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

5SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

 

   For the year ended 31 Dec 2004   For the year ended 31 December 2005 
   

Individual

life

 

Group

life

 

Accident &

Health

 

Corporate &

other

 Total   

Individual

life

 

Group

life

 

Accident &

Health

 

Corporate &

other

 Total 
   (RMB million)   (RMB million) 
Revenues               

Gross written premiums and policy fees

   54,909  742  10,606  —    66,257   68,888  1,267  10,867  —    81,022 
   

Gross written premiums

   50,113  344  —    —         63,205  867  —    —        

-Term Life

   183  28  —    —        184  24  —    —      

-Whole Life

   19,629  316  —    —        23,310  674  —    —      

-Endowment

   26,511  —    —    —        35,480  —    —    —      

-Annuity

   3,790  —    —    —        4,231  169  —    —      
  

Policy fees

   4,796  398  —    —          5,683  400  —    —        

Net premiums earned and policy fees

   54,902  742  9,364  —    65,008   68,749  1,257  10,032  —    80,038 

Net investment income

   9,986  1,137  194  —    11,317   14,682  1,788  215  —    16,685 

Net realised losses on investments

   (209) (24) (4) —    (237)

Net unrealised losses on trading securities

   (936) (107) (18) —    (1,061)

Net realised losses on financial assets

  (448) (55) (7) —    (510)

Net fair value gains on assets at fair value through income (held-for-trading)

  229  28  3  —    260 

Other income

   —    —    —    1,779  1,779   —    —    —    1,739  1,739 
                                 

Segment revenues

   63,743  1,748  9,536  1,779  76,806   83,212  3,018  10,243  1,739  98,212 
                                 

Benefits, claims and expenses

               

Insurance benefits and claims

               

Life insurance death and other benefits

   (6,422) (394) —    —    (6,816)  (7,744) (567) —    —    (8,311)

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

   —    —    (6,418) —    (6,418)  —    —    (6,847) —    (6,847)

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

   (25,341) (20) —    —    (25,361)  (33,550) (427) —    —    (33,977)

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

   (3,678) (26) —    —    (3,704)  (4,867) (27) —    —    (4,894)

Interest credited to investment contracts

   —    (616) —    —    (616)  —    (973) —    —    (973)

Increase in deferred income

   (7,672) (121) —    —    (7,793)  (8,484) (37) —    —    (8,521)

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits

   (1,909) (139) —    —    (2,048)  (4,965) (394) —    —    (5,359)

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

   (5,888) (197) (178) —    (6,263)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs expensed in the year

   (1,038) (13) (421) —    (1,472)

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  (6,955) (544) (267) —    (7,766)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs

  (1,350) (68) (427) —    (1,845)

Administrative expenses

   (3,241) (510) (1,231) (1,603) (6,585)  (3,863) (415) (1,338) (1,621) (7,237)

Other operating expenses

   (51) (8) (20) (52) (131)  (646) (78) (29) (45) (798)

Statutory insurance fund

   —    —    (96) —    (96)  (118) (1) (55) —    (174)
                                 

Segment benefits, claims and expenses

   (55,240) (2,044) (8,364) (1,655) (67,303)  (72,542) (3,531) (8,963) (1,666) (86,702)
                                 

Segment results

   8,503  (296) 1,172  124  9,503   10,670  (513) 1,280  73  11,510 
                                 

Income tax expenses

   —    —    —    (2,280) (2,280)  —    —    —    (2,145) (2,145)
                                 

Net profit/(loss)

   8,503  (296) 1,172  (2,156) 7,223   10,670  (513) 1,280  (2,072) 9,365 
                                 

Attributable to:

        

Attributable to

       

- shareholders of the Company

   8,503  (296) 1,172  (2,208) 7,171   10,670  (513) 1,280  (2,131) 9,306 

- minority interest

   —    —    —    52  52   —    —    —    59  59 
                                 

Unrealised losses included in shareholders’ equity

   (2,715) (309) (53) —    (3,077)

Unrealised gains included in shareholders’ equity

  3,997  487  58  —    4,542 
                                 

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

5SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

 

  As at 31 December 2004  As at 31 December 2005
  

Individual

life

  

Group

life

  

Accident &

Health

  

Corporate &

other

  Total  Individual
life
  

Group

life

  

Accident &

Health

  

Corporate &

other

  Total
  ( RMB million )  (RMB million)

Assets

                    

Financial assets

  311,271  35,451  6,035  —    352,757  416,310  50,713  6,095  —    473,118

Deferred policy acquisition costs

  31,466  1,054  267  —    32,787  36,229  909  603  —    37,741

Cash and cash equivalents

  24,015  2,736  466  —    27,217  24,683  3,007  361  —    28,051
                              

Segment assets

  366,752  39,241  6,768  —    412,761  477,222  54,629  7,059  —    538,910
                              

Unallocated

                    

Property, plant and equipment

          12,250          12,710

Other assets

          8,660          7,599
                      

Total

          433,671          559,219
                      

Liabilities

                    

Insurance contracts

                    

Short-term insurance contracts:

                    

- reserves for claims and claim adjustment expenses

  —    —    1,215  —    1,215  —    —    1,784  —    1,784

- unearned premium reserves

  —    —    5,212  —    5,212  —    —    5,147  —    5,147

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  88,985  713  —    —    89,698  123,457  1,199  —    —    124,656

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  190,791  1,094  —    —    191,885  235,847  1,154  —    —    237,001

Deferred income

  27,039  564  —    —    27,603  34,104  527  —    —    34,631

Financial liabilities

                    

Investment contracts

                    

- with DPF

  —    32,476  —    —    32,476  —    42,230  —    —    42,230

- without DPF

  —    1,635  —    —    1,635  —    1,872  —    —    1,872

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  4,163  507  61  —    4,731
                              

Segment liabilities

  306,815  36,482  6,427  —    349,724  397,571  47,489  6,992  —    452,052
                              

Unallocated

                    

Other liabilities

          17,045          26,358
                      

Total

          366,769          478,410
                      

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

5SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)

 

   For the year ended 31 Dec 2003   For the year ended 31 Dec 2004 
   

Individual

life

 

Group

life

 

Accident &

Health

 

Corporate &

other

 Total   Individual
life
 Group
life
 

Accident &

Health

 

Corporate &

other

 Total 
   (RMB million)   (RMB million) 

Revenues

               

Gross written premiums and policy fees

   58,541  588  10,205  —    69,334   54,909  742  10,606  —    66,257 
   

Gross written premiums

   52,773  260  —    —         50,113  344  —    —        

-Term Life

   293  8  —    —        183  28  —    —      

-Whole Life

   25,821  252  —    —        19,629  316  —    —      

-Endowment

   17,819  —    —    —        26,511  —    —    —      

-Annuity

   8,840  —    —    —        3,790  —    —    —      

Policy fees

   5,768  328  —    —          4,796  398  —    —        

Net premiums earned and policy fees

   58,541  588  8,087  —    67,216   54,902  742  9,364  —    65,008 

Net investment income

   8,472  1,190  163  —    9,825   9,986  1,137  194  —    11,317 

Net realised losses on investments

   748  108  12  —    868   (209) (24) (4) —    (237)

Net unrealised losses on trading securities

   207  36  4  —    247   (936) (107) (18) —    (1,061)

Other income

   —    —    —    727  727   —    —    —    1,779  1,779 
                                 

Segment revenues

   67,968  1,922  8,266  727  78,883   63,743  1,748  9,536  1,779  76,806 
                                 

Benefits, claims and expenses

               

Insurance benefits and claims

               

Life insurance death and other benefits

   (7,744) (826) —    —    (8,570)  (6,422) (394) —    —    (6,816)

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

   —    —    (4,882) —    (4,882)  —    —    (6,418) —    (6,418)

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts liabilities

   (39,454) (512) —    —    (39,966)  (25,341) (20) —    —    (25,361)

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

   (5,029) (1,782) —    —    (6,811)  (3,678) (26) —    —    (3,704)

Interest credited to investment contracts

   —    (449) —    —    (449)  —    (616) —    —    (616)

Increase in deferred income

   (6,043) 101  —    —    (5,942)  (7,672) (121) —    —    (7,793)

Policyholder dividends resulting from participation in profits

   (1,152) (55) —    —    (1,207)  (1,909) (139) —    —    (2,048)

Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs

   (4,873) (47) (103) —    (5,023)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs expensed in the year

   (882) (8) (404) —    (1,294)

Amortisation of deferred policy acquisition costs

  (5,888) (197) (178) —    (6,263)

Underwriting and policy acquisition costs

  (1,038) (13) (421) —    (1,472)

Administrative expenses

   (5,047) (131) (1,347) (337) (6,862)  (3,241) (510) (1,231) (1,603) (6,585)

Other operating expenses

   (246) (6) (65) (555) (872)  (51) (8) (20) (52) (131)

Interest expenses on bank borrowings

   —    —    —    (7) (7)

Statutory insurance fund

   —    —    (85) —    (85)  —    —    (96) —    (96)
                                 

Segment benefits, claims and expenses

   (70,470) (3,715) (6,886) (899) (81,970)  (55,240) (2,044) (8,364) (1,655) (67,303)
                                 

Segment results

   (2,502) (1,793) 1,380  (172) (3,087)  8,503  (296) 1,172  124  9,503 
                                 

Income tax expenses

   —    —    —    (1,180) (1,180)  —    —    —    (2,280) (2,280)
                                 

Net profit/(loss)

   (2,502) (1,793) 1,380  (1,352) (4,267)

Net profit

  8,503  (296) 1,172  (2,156) 7,223 
                                 

Attributable to:

               

- shareholders of the Company

   (2,502) (1,793) 1,380  (1,337) (4,252)  8,503  (296) 1,172  (2,208) 7,171 

- minority interest

   —    —    —    (15) (15)  —    —    —    52  52 
                                 

Unrealised losses included in shareholders’ equity

   (2,356) (331) (45) —    (2,732)  (2,715) (309) (53) —    (3,077)
                                 

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

6PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

 

   2005 
   Buildings  

Office

equipment,

furniture

and

fixtures

  

Motor

vehicles

  

Assets

under

construction

  

Leasehold

improvements

  Total 
   RMB
million
  RMB
million
  RMB
million
  RMB
million
  

RMB

million

  RMB
million
 

Cost or deemed cost

       

At 1 January 2005

  11,669  2,304  1,722  803  126  16,624 

Additions

  72  484  56  753  17  1,382 

Disposals

  (26) (68) (67) (5) (1) (167)

Transfers upon completion

  429  26  —    (465) 10  —   
                   

At 31 December 2005

  12,144  2,746  1,711  1,086  152  17,839 
                   

Accumulated depreciation

       

At 1 January 2005

  (1,788) (1,289) (1,214) —    (83) (4,374)

Charges for the year

  (380) (313) (174) —    (17) (884)

Disposals

  4  62  63  —    —    129 
                   

At 31 December 2005

  (2,164) (1,540) (1,325) —    (100) (5,129)
                   

Net book value

       

At 1 January 2005

  9,881  1,015  508  803  43  12,250 
                   

At 31 December 2005

  9,980  1,206  386  1,086  52  12,710 
                   
   2006 
    Buildings  

Office

equipment,

furniture and

fixtures

  

Motor

vehicles

  

Assets under

construction

  

Leasehold

improvements

  Total 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Cost

       

As at 1 January 2006

  12,144  2,746  1,711  1,086  152  17,839 

Additions

  152  561  212  1,773  61  2,759 

Disposals

  (41) (119) (108) —    (2) (270)

Transfers upon completion

  670  22  —    (699) 7  —   
                   

As at 31 December 2006

  12,925  3,210  1,815  2,160  218  20,328 
                   

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

       

As at 1 January 2006

  (2,164) (1,540) (1,325) —    (100) (5,129)

Charges for the year

  (345) (373) (112) —    (18) (848)

Impairment loss

  (3) —    —    —    —    (3)

Disposals

  3  113  100  —    1  217 
                   

As at 31 December 2006

  (2,509) (1,800) (1,337) —    (117) (5,763)
                   

Net book value

       

As at 1 January 2006

  9,980  1,206  386  1,086  52  12,710 
                   

As at 31 December 2006

  10,416  1,410  478  2,160  101  14,565 
                   

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

6PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (continued)

 

   2004 
   Buildings  

Office

equipment,

furniture

and

fixtures

  

Motor

vehicles

  

Assets under

construction

  

Leasehold

improvements

  Total 
   RMB
million
  RMB
million
  RMB
million
  RMB
million
  

RMB

million

  RMB
million
 

Cost or deemed cost

       

At 1 January 2004

  11,018  1,868  1,689  1,101  153  15,829 

Additions

  48  443  77  477  18  1,063 

Disposals

  (164) (15) (44) —    (45) (268)

Transfers upon completion

  767  8  —    (775) —    —   

At 31 December 2004

  11,669  2,304  1,722  803  126  16,624 
                   

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

       

At 1 January 2004

  (1,674) (992) (1,100) —    (55) (3,821)

Charges for the year

  (208) (311) (155) —    (72) (746)

Impairment loss

  (3) —    —    —    —    (3)

Disposals

  97  14  41  —    44  196 
                   

At 31 December 2004

  (1,788) (1,289) (1,214) —    (83) (4,374)
                   

Net book value

       

At 1 January 2004

  9,344  876  589  1,101  98  12,008 
                   

At 31 December 2004

  9,881  1,015  508  803  43  12,250 
                   
   2005 
   Buildings  

Office
equipment,
furniture and

fixtures

  Motor
vehicles
  Assets under
construction
  Leasehold
improvements
  Total 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Cost

       

As at 1 January 2005

  11,669  2,304  1,722  803  126  16,624 

Additions

  72  484  56  753  17  1,382 

Disposals

  (26) (68) (67) (5) (1) (167)

Transfers upon completion

  429  26  —    (465) 10  —   
                   

As at 31 December 2005

  12,144  2,746  1,711  1,086  152  17,839 
                   

Accumulated depreciation and impairment

       

As at 1 January 2005

  (1,788) (1,289) (1,214) —    (83) (4,374)

Charges for the year

  (380) (313) (174) —    (17) (884)

Disposals

  4  62  63  —    —    129 
                   

As at 31 December 2005

  (2,164) (1,540) (1,325) —    (100) (5,129)
                   

Net book value

       

As at 1 January 2005

  9,881  1,015  508  803  43  12,250 
                   

As at 31 December 2005

  9,980  1,206  386  1,086  52  12,710 
                   

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

7DEFERRED POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS

 

  2005 2004 2003   2006 2005 2004 
  RMB million RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million RMB million 

Gross

        

At 1 January

  32,981  25,164  18,411 

As at 1 January

  37,841  32,981  25,164 

Acquisition costs deferred

  14,231  13,672  11,818   15,929  14,231  13,672 

Amortisation charged through income

  (7,960) (6,559) (5,350)  (10,359) (7,960) (6,559)

Amortisation charged through equity

  (1,411) 704  285   (4,166) (1,411) 704 
                    

At 31 December

  37,841  32,981  25,164 

As at 31 December

  39,245  37,841  32,981 
                    

Ceded

        

At 1 January

  (194) (296) (327)

As at 1 January

  (100) (194) (296)

Acquisition costs deferred

  (100) (194) (296)  (15) (100) (194)

Amortisation charged through income

  194  296  327   100  194  296 
                    

At 31 December

  (100) (194) (296)

As at 31 December

  (15) (100) (194)
                    

Net

        

At 1 January

  32,787  24,868  18,084 

As at 1 January

  37,741  32,787  24,868 

Acquisition costs deferred

  14,131  13,478  11,522   15,914  14,131  13,478 

Amortisation charged through income

  (7,766) (6,263) (5,023)  (10,259) (7,766) (6,263)

Amortisation charged through equity

  (1,411) 704  285   (4,166) (1,411) 704 
                    

At 31 December

  37,741  32,787  24,868 

As at 31 December

  39,230  37,741  32,787 
                    

DAC excluding unrealised (gains)/losses

  38,188  31,823  24,608   43,843  38,188  31,823 

DAC recorded in unrealised (gains)/losses

  (447) 964  260   (4,613) (447) 964 
                    

Total

  37,741  32,787  24,868   39,230  37,741  32,787 
                    

Current

  603  267  178   794  603  267 

Non-current

  37,138  32,520  24,690   38,436  37,138  32,520 
                    

Total

  37,741  32,787  24,868   39,230  37,741  32,787 
                    

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

8FINANCIAL ASSETSINVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATES

 

8.1
Held-to-maturity securitiesRMB million

Acquisition of Guangdong Development Bank (“GDB”) (a)

5,671

Investment in China Life Property & Casualty Insurance Company Limited (“CLP&C”) (b)

400

Share of results

—  

Other equity movements

—  

As at 31 December 2006

6,071

(a)The Group acquired 20% of the share capital of GDB on 18 December 2006 for a cash consideration of RMB5,671 million.
(b)As approved by CIRC, the Company entered an agreement with CLIC to establish CLP&C with total paid-in capital of RMB1,000 million in 2006. The Company and CLIC own 40% and 60% of CLP&C, respectively. CLP&C obtained its business license and commenced operation on 30 December 2006.

The Group’s share in investments in associates as at 31 December 2006 is as follows:

   

Amortised

cost

  

Gross

unrealised gains

  

Gross

unrealised losses

  

Estimated

fair value

   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

At 31 December 2005

       

Debt securities

       

Government bonds

  90,067  8,652  (13) 98,706

Government agency bonds

  28,609  1,650  (12) 30,247

Corporate bonds

  3,257  310  —    3,567

Subordinated bonds/debts

  24,364  901  —    25,265
            

Total

  146,297  11,513  (25) 157,785
            
   Amortised
cost
  

Gross

unrealised gains

  

Gross

unrealised losses

  

Estimated

fair value

   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

At 31 December 2004

       

Debt securities

       

Government bonds

  52,512  68  (146) 52,434

Government agency bonds

  4,942  5  (59) 4,888

Corporate bonds

  2,714  86  (18) 2,782

Subordinated bonds/debts

  19,435  209  (28) 19,616
            

Total

  79,603  368  (251) 79,720
            

Contractual maturity schedule

 

  Amortised cost  Estimated fair value
  2005  2004  2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Maturing:

       

Within one year

  687  —    694  —  

After one year but within five years

  35,481  31,010  37,256  30,948

After five years but within ten years

  53,750  42,832  58,878  43,071

After ten years

  56,379  5,761  60,957  5,701
            

Total

  146,297  79,603  157,785  79,720
            

Name

  Country of
incorporation
  Assets  Liabilities  Revenues  Loss  Interest held 
      (RMB million)    

GDB

  PRC  77,901  72,230  59  —    20%

CLP&C

  PRC  400  —    —    —    40%
                

Total

    78,301  72,230  59  —    
                

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

89FINANCIAL ASSETS (continued)

 

8.29.1Available-for-sale securities/ Non-tradingHeld-to-maturity securities

 

  

Amortised

cost

  

Gross

unrealised gains

  

Gross

unrealised losses

 

Estimated

fair value

  

Amortised

cost

  

Gross

unrealised

gains

  

Gross

unrealised

losses

 

Estimated

fair value

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million RMB million

At 31 December 2005

       

As at 31 December 2006

       

Debt securities

              

Government bonds

  49,180  1,157  (415) 49,922  94,999  7,791  (26) 102,764

Government agency bonds

  30,776  344  (458) 30,662  53,935  2,642  (244) 56,333

Corporate bonds

  10,806  523  (14) 11,315  3,257  296  —    3,553

Subordinated bonds/debts

  4,458  90  (22) 4,526  24,368  1,282  (8) 25,642
                        

Subtotal

  95,220  2,114  (909) 96,425

Total

  176,559  12,011  (278) 188,292
                        

Equity securities

       

Funds

  24,845  422  (153) 25,114

Common stock

  1,009  138  —    1,147
            

Subtotal

  25,854  560  (153) 26,261
  

Amortised

cost

  

Gross

unrealised
gains

  

Gross

unrealised
losses

 

Estimated

fair value

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million RMB million

As at 31 December 2005

       

Debt securities

       

Government bonds

  90,067  8,652  (13) 98,706

Government agency bonds

  28,609  1,650  (12) 30,247

Corporate bonds

  3,257  310  —    3,567

Subordinated bonds/debts

  24,364  901  —    25,265
                        

Total

  121,074  2,674  (1,062) 122,686  146,297  11,513  (25) 157,785
                        
Contractual maturity schedule  Amortised cost  Estimated fair value

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  

As at

31 December

2006

 

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million RMB million

Maturing:

       

Within one year

  2,974  687  3,008  694

After one year but within five years

  51,483  35,481  54,345  37,256

After five years but within ten years

  37,295  53,750  40,279  58,878

After ten years

  84,807  56,379  90,660  60,957
            

Total

  176,559  146,297  188,292  157,785
            

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

89FINANCIAL ASSETS (continued)

 

8.29.2Available-for-sale securities/ Non-trading securities (continued)

 

   

Amortised

cost

  

Gross

unrealised gains

  

Gross

unrealised losses

  

Estimated

fair value

   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

At 31 December 2004

       

Debt securities

       

Government bonds

  43,871  109  (4,368) 39,612

Government agency bonds

  26,645  231  (438) 26,438

Corporate bonds

  4,292  3  (554) 3,741
            

Subtotal

  74,808  343  (5,360) 69,791
            

Equity securities

       

Funds

  13,243  22  (668) 12,597
            

Total

  88,051  365  (6,028) 82,388
            
   Amortised cost  Estimated fair value

Debt securities-contractual maturity schedule

 

  2005  2004  2005  2004
  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Maturing:

       

Within one year

  2,028  1,145  2,043  1,147

After one year but within five years

  15,437  20,477  15,995  20,235

After five years but within ten years

  37,892  32,923  38,371  30,797

After ten years

  39,863  20,263  40,016  17,612
            

Total

  95,220  74,808  96,425  69,791
            

The proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities/non-trading securities and the gross realised gains/(losses) for the years ended 31 December 2005, 2004 and 2003 were as follows:

   2005  2004  2003 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Proceeds from sales of available–for-sale securities/non-trading securities

  59,806  26,160  40,339 

Gross realised gains

  301  127  919 

Gross realised losses

  (68) (32) (118)
   

Amortised

cost/ Cost

  

Gross

unrealized

gains

  

Gross

unrealised

losses

  

Estimated

fair value

   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

As at 31 December 2006

       

Debt securities

       

Government bonds

  60,058  863  (569) 60,352

Government agency bonds

  78,300  664  (243) 78,721

Corporate bonds

  31,001  238  (487) 30,752

Subordinated bonds/debts

  7,068  12  (37) 7,043
            

Subtotal

  176,427  1,777  (1,336) 176,868
            

Equity securities

       

Funds

  20,535  12,437  (103) 32,869

Common stocks

  15,876  13,882  (33) 29,725

Warrants

  —    1  —    1
            

Subtotal

  36,411  26,320  (136) 62,595
            

Total

  212,838  28,097  (1,472) 239,463
            
   

Amortised

cost/ Cost

  

Gross

unrealised
gains

  

Gross

unrealised
losses

  

Estimated

fair value

   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

As at 31 December 2005

       

Debt securities

       

Government bonds

  49,180  1,157  (415) 49,922

Government agency bonds

  30,776  344  (458) 30,662

Corporate bonds

  10,806  523  (14) 11,315

Subordinated bonds/debts

  4,458  90  (22) 4,526
            

Subtotal

  95,220  2,114  (909) 96,425
            

Equity securities

       

Funds

  24,845  422  (153) 25,114

Common stocks

  1,009  138  —    1,147
            

Subtotal

  25,854  560  (153) 26,261
            

Total

  121,074  2,674  (1,062) 122,686
            

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

89FINANCIAL ASSETS (continued)

 

8.39.2Available-for-sale securities (continued)

Debt securities  Amortised cost  Estimated fair value
  As at
31 December
2006
  As at
31 December
2005
  As at
31 December
2006
  As at
31 December
2005
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

- contractual maturity schedule

        

Maturing:

        

Within one year

  4,544  2,028  4,561  2,043

After one year but within five years

  26,664  15,437  27,016  15,995

After five years but within ten years

  60,261  37,892  59,995  38,371

After ten years

  84,958  39,863  85,296  40,016
            

Total

  176,427  95,220  176,868  96,425
            

9.3Financial assets at fair value through income/trading securitiesincome (held-for-trading)

 

  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Debt securities

        

Government bonds

  3,229  840  148  3,229

Government agency bonds

  7,116  —    1,915  7,116

Corporate bonds

  1,759  —    2,083  1,759

Subordinated bonds/debts

  728  —    325  728
            

Subtotal

  12,832  840  4,471  12,832
            

Equity securities

        

Funds

  8,408  4,674  12,382  8,408

Common stocks

  4,875  —    20,460  4,875

Warrants

  4  —    56  4
            

Subtotal

  13,287  4,674  32,898  13,287
            

Total

  26,119  5,514  37,369  26,119
            

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

89FINANCIAL ASSETS (continued)

 

8.49.4Listed and unlisted debt securities and equity securitiesinvestments at carrying value

 

  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Listed debt securities - mainland, PRC

    

Listed debt securities in PRC

    

Government bonds

  62,192  45,232  64,562  62,192

Corporate bonds

  4,377  2,954  6,839  4,377
            

Subtotal

  66,569  48,186  71,401  66,569
            

Unlisted debt securities

    

Unlisted debt securities in PRC

    

Government bonds

  81,026  47,732  90,937  81,026

Government agency bonds

  66,387  31,380  134,571  66,387

Corporate bonds

  11,954  3,501  29,253  11,954

Subordinated bonds/debts

  29,618  19,435  31,736  29,618
            

Subtotal

  188,985  102,048  286,497  188,985
            

Listed equity securities

    

Listed equity securities in PRC

    

Common stocks

        

- listed in HK, PRC

  2,294  —    6,884  2,294

- listed in mainland, PRC

  3,728  —    43,301  3,728

Funds - listed in mainland, PRC

  5,057  4,674  12,861  5,057

Warrants - listed in mainland, PRC

  4  —    57  4
            

Subtotal

  11,083  4,674  63,103  11,083
            

Unlisted equity securities

    

Unlisted equity securities in PRC

    

Funds

  28,465  12,597  32,390  28,465
            

Total

  295,102  167,505  453,391  295,102
            

As ofat 31 December 2005,2006, the amount of unlisted debt securities, contracted in the over-the-counter market, is RMB184,913RMB260,289 million (2004: RMB84,025(31 December 2005: RMB184,913 million).

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

89FINANCIAL ASSETS (continued)

 

8.59.5Term deposits

 

  2005  2004  

As at

31 December
2006

  

As at

31 December
2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Contractually maturing:

    

Maturing:

    

Within one year

  10,563  7,805  57,930  10,563

After one year but within five years

  147,504  146,293  111,901  147,504

After five years but within ten years

  3,502  17,503  3,421  3,502

After ten years

  3,300  3,897  2,224  3,300
            

Total

  164,869  175,498  175,476  164,869
            

Included in term deposits are structured deposits of RMB4,802RMB4,646 million (2004: RMB4,800(31 December 2005: RMB4,802 million). The interest rates ofrate on these deposits fluctuatefluctuates based on changes in certain interest rate indexes. The Group uses structured deposits primarily to enhance the returns on investments. Structured deposits are carriedstated at amortised cost.

 

8.69.6Statutory deposits – restricted

 

  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Contractually maturing:

        

After one year but within five years

  5,353  4,000  5,353  5,353
      

Insurance companies in China are required to deposit an amount equal to 20% of their registered capital with a bankbanks designated by the CIRC. These funds may not be used for any purpose, other than to pay off debts during a liquidation proceeding.

As at 31 December 2006, the Company’s statutory deposits are 20% of its registered capital of RMB26,765 million prior to the shares issued in the December’s initial public offering of A shares. The A shares issued in that offering are in the process of registration with the statutory authorities.

8.7Securities purchased under agreements to resell

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

Contractually maturing:

    

Within 30 days

  —    79

After 30 days but within 90 days

  —    200
      

Total

  —    279
      

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

89FINANCIAL ASSETS (continued)

 

8.89.7Accrued investment income

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

Term deposits

  2,983  2,843

Debt securities

  3,805  2,203

Others

  25  38
      

Total

  6,813  5,084
      

  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million

Term deposits

  3,259  2,983

Debt securities

  5,008  3,805

Others

  194  25
      

Total

  8,461  6,813
      
  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Current

  6,802  5,081  8,439  6,802

Non-current

  11  3  22  11
            

Total

  6,813  5,084  8,461  6,813
            

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

910FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

The estimates and judgments to determine the fair value of investmentsfinancial assets are described in Note 3.3.

The fair value of long-term investment type insurance contracts and investment contracts are determined by using valuation techniques, with consideration of the surrender value before surrender charges that the Group is required to pay if such payment is immediately demanded by the holders of investment contracts.

The table below presents the estimated fair value and carrying value of financial assets and liabilities.

 

  Estimated fair value   Estimated fair value 
  2005 2004   

As at

31 December

2006

 

As at

31 December

2005

 
  RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million 

Debt securities

  267,042  150,351   369,631  267,042 

Equity securities

  39,548  17,271   95,493  39,548 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

  160,067  170,698   170,830  160,067 

Structured deposits

  4,538  4,789   4,419  4,538 

Statutory deposits - restricted

  5,353  4,000   5,353  5,353 

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  —    279 

Policy loans

  981  391   2,371  981 

Cash and cash equivalents

  28,051  27,217   50,213  28,051 

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  (219,973) (176,711)  (276,241) (219,973)

Investment contracts with DPF

  (35,039) (26,117)  (39,575) (35,039)

Investment contracts without DPF

  (1,673) (1,377)  (2,459) (1,673)

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  (4,731) —     (8,227) (4,731)
  Carrying value   Carrying value 
  2005 2004   

As at

31 December

2006

 

As at

31 December
2005

 
  RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million 

Debt securities

  255,554  150,234   357,898  255,554 

Equity securities

  39,548  17,271   95,493  39,548 

Term deposits (excluding structured deposits)

  160,067  170,698   170,830  160,067 

Structured deposits

  4,802  4,800   4,646  4,802 

Statutory deposits - restricted

  5,353  4,000   5,353  5,353 

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  —    279 

Policy loans

  981  391   2,371  981 

Cash and cash equivalents

  28,051  27,217   50,213  28,051 

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  (237,001) (191,885)  (282,672) (237,001)

Investment contracts with DPF

  (42,230) (32,476)  (45,998) (42,230)

Investment contracts without DPF

  (1,872) (1,635)  (2,614) (1,872)

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  (4,731) —     (8,227) (4,731)

 

1011PREMIUMS RECEIVABLES

The aging of premiums receivables is within 212 months.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1112REINSURANCE ASSETS

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

Claims recoverable from reinsurers (Note 13)

  106  136

Ceded unearned premiums (Note 13)

  291  571

Long-term traditional insurance contracts ceded (Note 13)

  674  —  

Due from reinsurance companies

  111  590
      

Total

  1,182  1,297
      

  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million

Claims recoverable from reinsurers (Note 14)

  15  106

Ceded unearned premiums (Note 14)

  60  291

Long-term traditional insurance contracts ceded (Note 14)

  704  674

Due from reinsurance companies

  207  111
      

Total

  986  1,182
      
  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Current

  508  1,297  282  508

Non-current

  674  —    704  674
            

Total

  1,182  1,297  986  1,182
            

 

1213OTHER ASSETS

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

Due from CLIC (Note 27(c))

  851  1,387

Receivable for fund units redeemed

  176  1,500

Others

  431  564
      

Total

  1,458  3,451
      

  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million

Due from CLIC (Note 29(c))

  996  851

Deposit on fund units pending issuance/receivable on funds redeemed

  135  176

Advances

  102  83

Others

  979  348
      

Total

  2,212  1,458
      
  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Current

  1,333  3,282  1,650  1,333

Non-current

  125  169  562  125
            

Total

  1,458  3,451  2,212  1,458
            

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1314INSURANCE CONTRACTS

(a) Process used to decide on assumptions

(i) Investment return assumptions are based on estimates of future yields on the Group’s investments. In determining interest rate assumptions, the Group considers past investment experience, the current and future mix of its investment portfolio and trends in yields. The assumed rate of investment return in future years reflect increased investment in higher yielding securities, and term deposits, including corporate bonds, subordinated bonds/debts, longer duration debt securities and equity securities and structured deposits.securities. The assumed rate of investment return and provision for adverse deviation used are as follows:

 

Policies issuedYear of policy issue

  

Interest rate assumptions

 

Provision for adverse deviation

Prior to 2003

  

3.8%3.80% - 5.0%5.00%

 

0.25% - 0.5%0.50%

2003

  

3.65% - 5.0%5.00%

 

0.25% - 0.5%0.50%

2004

  

3.7%3.70% - 5.17%

 

0.25% - 0.5%0.50%

2005

  

4.00% - 5.20%

 

0.25% - 0.5%0.50%

2006

4.60% - 5.40%

0.25% - 0.60%

(ii) Estimates are made for mortality and morbidity rates in each of the years that the Group is exposed to risk. The assumed mortality rates and morbidity rates, varying by age of the insured and contract type, are based upon expected experience at the date of contract issue plus, where applicable, a margin for adverse deviation.

The Group bases its mortality assumptions on China Life 1990-1993 Industry ExperienceInsurance Mortality Table (1990-1993) and China Life Tables,Insurance Mortality Table (2000-2003), adjusted where appropriate to reflect the Group’s recent historical mortality experience. Appropriate but not excessively prudent allowance is made for future mortality improvement on contracts that insure the risk of longevity, such as annuities. The main source of uncertainty with life insurance contracts is that epidemics such as Avian Flu, AIDS, SARS and wide-ranging lifestyle changes could result in deterioration in future mortality experience, thus leading to an inadequate liability. Similarly, continuing advancements in medical care and social conditions could result in improvements in longevity that exceed those allowed for in the estimates used to determine the liability for contracts where the Group is exposed to longevity risk.

The Group bases its morbidity assumptions for critical illness products on Taiwanese experience in the critical illness market, as the best proxy for the ChinaChina’s market adjusted where appropriate to reflect the Group’s recent historical and projected future experience. There are two main sources of uncertainty. First, wide-ranging lifestyle changes could result in future deterioration in morbidity experience. Second, future development of medical technologies and improved coverage of medical facilities available to policyholders may bring forward the timing of diagnosing critical illness, which demands earlier payment of the critical illness benefits. Both could ultimately result in an inadequate liability if current morbidity assumptions do not properly reflect such secular trends.

(iii) The assumption for policy administration expenses has been based on expected unit costs plus, where applicable, a margin for adverse deviation. Unit costs have been based on an analysis of actual experience. The unit cost factors are expressed on both a per-policy and a percent-of-premium basis, as follows:

 

  Individual Life  Group Life   Individual Life Group Life 
Policies issued  RMB Per Policy  % of Premium  RMB Per Policy  % of Premium 

Year of policy issue

  

RMB

Per Policy

  

% of

Premium

 

RMB

Per Policy

  

% of

Premium

 

Prior to 2003

  15.0  2.00%  15.0  2.00%  15.0  2.00% 15.0  2.00%

2003

  12.5  1.75%  12.5  1.75%  12.5  1.75% 12.5  1.75%

2004

  10.0 –17.5  1.65% - 2.55%  17.5  1.65%  10.0 - 17.5  1.65% - 2.55% 17.5  1.65%

2005

  14.5 –19.5  1.50% - 1.80%  4.0  1.30%  14.5 - 19.5  1.50% - 1.80% 4.0  1.30%

2006

  15.0 - 22.0  1.60% - 1.85% 6.5  1.50%

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1314INSURANCE CONTRACTS (continued)

(b) Change in(a) Process used to decide on assumptions (continued)

The Group did not change its process used to decide on assumptions for the insurance contracts disclosed in this note.

(c)(b) Net liabilities of insurance contracts and investment contracts

 

  2005 2004   

As at

31 December

2006

 

As at

31 December

2005

 
  RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million 

Gross

      

Short term insurance contracts:

   

Short term insurance contracts

   

– claims and claim adjustment expenses

  1,784  1,215   2,498  1,784 

– unearned premiums

  5,147  5,212   5,346  5,147 

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  124,656  89,698   172,875  124,656 

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  237,001  191,885   282,672  237,001 

Investment contracts

      

– with DPF

  42,230  32,476   45,998  42,230 

– without DPF

  1,872  1,635   2,614  1,872 
              

Total, gross

  412,690  322,121   512,003  412,690 
              

Recoverable from reinsurers

      

Short-term insurance contracts:

   

– claims and claim adjustment expenses (Note 11)

  (106) (136)

– unearned premiums (Note 11)

  (291) (571)

Long-term traditional insurance contracts (Note 11)

  (674) —   

Short-term insurance contracts

   

– claims and claim adjustment expenses (Note 12)

  (15) (106)

– unearned premiums (Note 12)

  (60) (291)

Long-term traditional insurance contracts (Note 12)

  (704) (674)
              

Total, ceded

  (1,071) (707)  (779) (1,071)
              

Net

      

Short term insurance contracts:

   

Short term insurance contracts

   

– claims and claim adjustment expenses

  1,678  1,079   2,483  1,678 

– unearned premiums

  4,856  4,641   5,286  4,856 

Long-term traditional insurance contracts

  123,982  89,698   172,171  123,982 

Long-term investment type insurance contracts

  237,001  191,885   282,672  237,001 

Investment contracts

      

– with DPF

  42,230  32,476   45,998  42,230 

– without DPF

  1,872  1,635   2,614  1,872 
              

Total, net

  411,619  321,414   511,224  411,619 
              

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1314INSURANCE CONTRACTS (continued)

(d)(c) Claims incurred ratio

 

  2005 2004 2003   2006 2005 2004 
  RMB million RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million RMB million 

Claims incurred-net

  6,847  6,418  4,882   6,999  6,847  6,418 

Claims incurred ratio

  68% 69% 60%  66% 68% 69%
    ��     

(e)(d) Movements in liabilities of short-term insurance contracts

The table below presents movement of reserves of claims and claim adjustment expenses:

 

  2005 2004   2006 2005 
  RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million 

-Notified claims

  651  467   638  651 

-Incurred but not reported

  564  347   1,146  564 
              

Total at 1 January - Gross

  1,215  814 

Total as at 1 January - Gross

  1,784  1,215 
              

Cash paid for claims settled in year

      

- Cash paid for current year claims

  (4,962) (5,961)  (4,346) (4,962)

- Cash paid for prior year claims

  (1,975) (1,107)  (2,149) (1,975)

Claims incurred in year

      

- Claims arising in current year

  6,653  7,132   6,771  6,653 

- Claims arising in prior year

  853  337   438  853 
              

Total at 31 December - Gross

  1,784  1,215 

Total as at 31 December - Gross

  2,498  1,784 
              

Notified claims

  638  651   487  638 

Incurred but not reported

  1,146  564   2,011  1,146 
              

Total at 31 December - Gross

  1,784  1,215 

Total as at 31 December - Gross

  2,498  1,784 
              

The table below presents movement of unearned premium reserves:

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million
   Gross  Ceded  Net  Gross  Ceded  Net

At 1 January

  5,212  (571) 4,641  5,382  (808) 4,574

Changes in the year

  (65) 280  215  (170) 237  67
                  

At 31 December

  5,147  (291) 4,856  5,212  (571) 4,641
                  
   

2006

RMB million

  

2005

RMB million

   Gross  Ceded  Net  Gross  Ceded  Net

At as 1 January

  5,147  (291) 4,856  5,212  (571) 4,641

Changes in the year

  199  231  430  (65) 280  215
                  

At as 31 December

  5,346  (60) 5,286  5,147  (291) 4,856
                  

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1314INSURANCE CONTRACTS (continued)

(f)(e) Movements in liabilities for long-term traditional insurance contracts

The table below presents movement in the liabilities of long-term traditional insurance contracts:

 

   2005
RMB million 

AtAs at 1 January 2006

124,656

Valuation premium

54,764

Liabilities released for death or other termination and related expenses

(13,169)

Accretion of interest

5,634

Other movements

990

As at 31 December 2006

172,875

As at 1 January 2005

  89,698 

Valuation premium

  42,271 

Liabilities released for death or other termination and related expenses

  (11,486)

Accretion of interest

  3,880 

Other movements

  293 
    

AtAs at 31 December 2005

  124,656 
    

(g)(f) Movements in liabilities of long-term investment type insurance contracts

The table below presents movement in the liabilities of long-term investment type insurance contracts:

 

   2005
RMB million 

AtAs at 1 January 2006

237,001

Deposits received

70,472

Deposits withdrawn

(24,667)

Fees deducted from account balances

(6,520)

Interest credited

6,386

As at 31 December 2006

282,672

As at 1 January 2005

  191,885 

Deposits received

  62,945 

Deposits withdrawn

  (17,011)

Fees deducted from account balances

  (5,712)

Interest credited

  4,894 
    

AtAs at 31 December 2005

  237,001 
    

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1415DEFERRED INCOME

The table below presents movement of deferred income:

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

At 1 January

  27,603  18,753

Change in the year

  7,028  8,850
      

At 31 December

  34,631  27,603
      

Deferred income excluding unrealised (gains)/losses

  35,116  26,546

Deferred income recognised in unrealised (gains)/losses

  (485) 1,057
      

Total deferred income

  34,631  27,603
      

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   2006  2005 
   RMB million  RMB million 

As at 1 January

  34,631  27,603 

Change in the year

  6,740  7,028 
       

As at 31 December

  41,371  34,631 
       

Deferred income excluding unrealised gains

  46,730  35,116 

Deferred income recognised in unrealised gains

  (5,359) (485)
       

Total deferred income

  41,371  34,631 
       

 

1516LIABILITIES OF INVESTMENT CONTRACTS

The table below presents movement of investment contracts:

 

  2005 2004   2006 2005 
  RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million 

At 1 January

  34,111  18,749 

As at 1 January

  44,102  34,111 

Deposits received

  23,001  21,353   20,969  23,001 

Deposits withdrawn

  (13,612) (6,228)  (16,878) (13,612)

Policy fees deducted from account balances

  (371) (379)  (577) (371)

Interest credited

  973  616   996  973 
              

At 31 December

  44,102  34,111 

As at 31 December

  48,612  44,102 
              

Investment contracts

      

- with DPF

  42,230  32,476   45,998  42,230 

- without DPF

  1,872  1,635   2,614  1,872 
              

Total

  44,102  34,111   48,612  44,102 
              

 

1617SECURITIES SOLD UNDER AGREEMENTS TO REPURCHASE

Liabilities are due within thirty days from the balance sheet date. The carrying values of debt securities and term deposits pledged as collateral are as follows:

  

As at

31 December
2006

  

As at

31 December
2005

  RMB million  RMB million

Maturing:

    

Within thirty days

  8,202  4,131

After thirty but within ninety days

  25  —  

After ninety days

  —    600
      

Total

  8,227  4,731
      
The carrying values of debt securities and term deposits pledged as collateral are as follows:The carrying values of debt securities and term deposits pledged as collateral are as follows:
  2005  2004  

As at

31 December
2006

  

As at

31 December
2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Term deposits pledged

  600  —    —    600

Debt securities pledged

  4,131  —    8,351  4,131
            

Total

  4,731  —    8,351  4,731
            

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

1718OTHER LIABILITIES

 

  2005  2004  

As at

31 December
2006

  

As at

31 December
2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Salary and staff welfare payable

  1,533  1,608  1,805  1,533

Commission and brokerage payable

  997  958  1,025  997

Agent deposits

  498  478  554  498

Tax payable

  183  158  299  183

Payable to constructors

  115  217  249  115

Stock appreciation rights(Note 27)

  444  —  

Others

  780  1,503  957  780
            

Total

  4,106  4,922  5,333  4,106
            
  2005  2004  

As at

31 December
2006

  

As at

31 December
2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Current

  4,106  4,922  5,248  4,106

Non-current

  85  —  
            

Total

  5,333  4,106
      

 

1819STATUTORY INSURANCE FUND

AccordingThe Group is subject to the PRC “Financial Regulations for Insurance Companies”,statutory insurance companies are required to provide for the insurance guarantee fund at 1% of the net premiums of general insurance, accident insurance, short-term health insurance and reinsurance business, and, 0.15% of those of life insurance business with a guaranteed interest rate, and 0.05% of thosenet premium from accident and short-term health policies, long-term life with guaranteed return and long-term health policies and long-term life policies without guaranteed return, respectively. When the accumulated statutory insurance fund reaches 1% of lifethe Group’s total assets, no additional provision of statutory insurance business without a guaranteed interest rate.fund is required.

 

1920NET INVESTMENT INCOME

 

  2005 2004 2003   For the year ended 31 December 
  RMB million RMB million RMB million   2006 2005 2004 

Net investment income:

    
  RMB million RMB million RMB million 

Debt securities

  8,429  3,720  2,793   12,384  8,429  3,720 

Term deposits and cash and cash equivalents

  7,903  6,744  5,543   8,207  7,903  6,744 

Equity securities

  494  646  312   4,662  494  646 

Investment properties

  —    —    58 

Investment in associated companies

  —    —    16 

Policy loans

  22  11  4   80  22  11 

Securities purchased under agreements to resell

  3  253  1,121   23  3  253 

Other investments

  —    —    10 
                    

Subtotal

  16,851  11,374  9,857   25,356  16,851  11,374 
                    

Securities sold under agreements to repurchase

  (70) (10) (7)  (270) (70) (10)

Investment expenses

  (96) (47) (25)  (144) (96) (47)
                    

Total

  16,685  11,317  9,825   24,942  16,685  11,317 
                    

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2021NET REALISED LOSSESGAINS/(LOSSES) ON FINANCIAL ASSETS/NET REALISED GAINS/(LOSSES) ON INVESTMENTS

 

      2005  2004  2003 
      RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Debt securities

     

Gross realised gains

   158  18  661 

Gross realised losses

   (5) (15) (104)

Impairments

  (i) (92) (320) (7)
           
Subtotal   61  (317) 550 
           

Equity securities

     

Gross realised gains

   143  97  458 

Gross realised losses

   (63) (17) (140)

Impairments

  (ii) (651) —    —   
           
Subtotal   (571) 80  318 
           
Total   (510) (237) 868 
           

    For the year ended 31 December 
    2006  2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Debt securities

    

Gross realised gains

  20  158  18 

Gross realised losses

  (26) (5) (15)

Impairments

  —    (92) (320)
          

Subtotal

  (6) 61  (317)
          

Equity securities

    

Gross realised gains

  1,601  143  97 

Gross realised losses

  —    (63) (17)

Impairments

  —    (651) —   
          

Subtotal

  1,601  (571) 80 
          

Total

  1,595  (510) (237)
          

Note:The proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities/non-trading securities and the gross realised gains/(losses) for the years ended 31 December 2006, 2005 and 2004 were as follow:

    2006  2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities

  49,902  59,806  26,160 

Gross realised gains

  1,621  301  127 

Gross realised losses

  (26) (68) (32)

 

(i)22The Group has government bonds deposited with Min Fa Securities Limited Company (“Min Fa”). During the year ended 31 December 2004, while the underlying government bonds themselves were not considered to be impaired, the Group recorded an impairment charge against these bonds as the financial difficulties at Min Fa were deemed to have impaired the Group’s estimated future cash flows from these bonds. An impairment charge of RMB320 million was recorded to reduce the carrying value of these government bonds held by Min Fa to RMB92 million.NET FAIR VALUE GAINS ON ASSETS AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH INCOME (HELD-FOR-TRADING)/NET UNREALISED GAINS/(LOSSES) ON TRADING SECURITIES

During the year ended 31 December 2005, Min Fa was ordered by the China Securities Regulatory Commission to wind up and liquidation proceedings against Min Fa were commenced. As a result, the Group recorded an impairment provision in 2005 for the remaining RMB92 million carrying value in government bonds held by Min Fa.

(ii)The Group recorded impairment losses approximately RMB651 million (2004: Nil). In the opinion of the Group’s management, it is possible on equity securities of that the Group may not realise a full recovery on these investments which incurred an other- than-temporary decline in value in accordance with the accounting policies disclosed in Note 2.6.f.
   For the year ended 31 December 
   2006  2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Debt securities

  305  88  11 

Equity securities

  19,739  172  (1,072)
          

Total

  20,044  260  (1,061)
          

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

21NET FAIR VALUE GAINS ON ASSETS AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH INCOME/NET UNREALISED GAINS/(LOSSES) ON TRADING SECURITIES

   2005  2004  2003
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Debt securities

  88  11  —  

Equity securities

  172  (1,072) 247
         

Total

  260  (1,061) 247
         

 

2223INSURANCE BENEFITS AND CLAIMS

 

  Gross  Ceded Net  Gross  Ceded Net
  RMB million  RMB million RMB million

For the year ended 31 December 2006

     

Life insurance death and other benefits

  10,814  (17) 10,797

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  7,209  (210) 6,999

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts

  44,264  (26) 44,238

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  6,386  —    6,386
         

Total insurance benefits and claims

  68,673  (253) 68,420
  RMB million  RMB million RMB million         
For the year ended 31 December 2005          

Life insurance death and other benefits

  8,320  (9) 8,311  8,320  (9) 8,311

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  7,506  (659) 6,847  7,506  (659) 6,847

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts

  34,114�� (137) 33,977  34,114  (137) 33,977

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  4,894  —    4,894  4,894  —    4,894
                  

Total insurance benefits and claims

  54,834  (805) 54,029  54,834  (805) 54,029
                  

For the year ended 31 December 2004

          

Life insurance death and other benefits

  6,816  —    6,816  6,816  —    6,816

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  7,469  (1,051) 6,418  7,469  (1,051) 6,418

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts

  25,361  —    25,361  25,361  —    25,361

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  3,704  —    3,704  3,704  —    3,704
                  

Total insurance benefits and claims

  43,350  (1,051) 42,299  43,350  (1,051) 42,299
                  

For the year ended 31 December 2003

     

Life insurance death and other benefits

  8,570  —    8,570

Accident and health claims and claim adjustment expenses

  5,744  (862) 4,882

Increase in long-term traditional insurance contracts

  39,966  —    39,966

Interest credited to long-term investment type insurance contracts

  6,811  —    6,811
         

Total insurance benefits and claims

  61,091  (862) 60,229
         

24NET PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSES

Net profit before income tax expenses is stated after charging the following:

   For the year ended 31 December
   2006  2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Salary and welfare

  4,197  3,118  2,827

Housing benefits

  256  251  199

Contribution to the defined contribution pension plan

  358  342  295

Depreciation

  848  884  746

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

  —    7  5

Exchange loss

  639  639  59

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

23NET PROFIT/(LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSES

Net profit/(loss) before income tax expenses is stated after charging the following:

   2005  2004  2003 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Salary and welfare

  3,118  2,827  2,879 

Housing benefits

  251  199  139 

Contribution to the defined contribution pension plan

  342  295  122 

Depreciation

  884  746  1,144 

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

  7  5  124 

Deficit on revaluation of investment properties

  —    —    181 

Exchange loss/(gain)

  639  59  (7)

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TOFOR THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSYEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2425TAXATION

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax relate to the same fiscal authority.

 

(a)The amount of taxation charged to the consolidated income statement represents:

 

  2005  2004  2003  For the year ended 31 December
  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  2006  2005  2004

Current taxation -Enterprises income tax

  772  79  139
  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Current taxation - enterprises income tax

  858  772  79

Deferred taxation

  1,373  2,201  1,041  4,696  1,373  2,201
                  

Taxation charges

  2,145  2,280  1,180  5,554  2,145  2,280
                  

 

(b)The reconciliation between the Group’s effective tax rate and the statutory tax rate of 33% in the PRC is as follows:

 

  For the year ended 31 December 
  2005 2004 2003   2006 2005 2004 
  RMB million RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million RMB million 

Net profit before income tax expenses

  11,510  9,503  (3,087)  25,605  11,510  9,503 
                    

Tax computed at the statutory tax rate of 33%

  3,798  3,136  (1,019)  8,450  3,798  3,136 

Tax exception from taxable income at the statutory tax rate of 33%

  (1,763) (923) (183)

Addition tax liability from expenses not deductible for tax purposes

  110  67  628 

Unrecognised deferred tax assets

  —    —    1,754 

Non-taxable income

  (3,250) (1,763) (923)

Additional tax liability from expenses not deductible for tax purposes

  354  110  67 
                    

Income taxes at effective tax rate

  2,145  2,280  1,180   5,554  2,145  2,280 
                    

Non-taxable income includes mainly interest income from government bonds. Expenses not deductible for tax purposes include mainly salary, commission, brokerage and donation expenses in excess of deductible amounts as allowed by relevant tax regulations.

 

(c)AtAs at 31 December 2005,2006, deferred income taxation is calculated in full on temporary differences under the liability method using a principal taxation rate of 33%.

The movement on the deferred income tax liabilities account is as follows:

 

   2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million 

At 1 January

  4,371  3,686 

Deferred taxation charged to income statement

  1,373  2,201 

Taxation charged to equity

  2,238  (1,516)
       

At 31 December

  7,982  4,371 
       
   2006  2005
   RMB million  RMB million

As at 1 January

  7,982  4,371

Deferred taxation charged to income statement

  4,696  1,373

Deferred taxation charged to equity

  6,344  2,238
      

As at 31 December

  19,022  7,982
      

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2425TAXATION (continued)

 

(d)The movement in deferred tax assets and liabilities prior to offsetting during the year is as follows:

 

Deferred tax

 

  Long-term
insurance
contracts and
investment
contracts
  Short-term
insurance
contracts
  Investments  DAC  Others  Total 
  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

At 1 January, 2004

  3,512  117  357  (8,206) 534  (3,686)

(Charged) / credited to income statement

  92  (126) 232  (2,381) (18) (2,201)

Charged to equity

  348  —    1,400  (232) —    1,516 
                   

At 31 December, 2004

  3,952  (9) 1,989  (10,819) 516  (4,371)
                   

At 1 January, 2005

  3,952  (9) 1,989  (10,819) 516  (4,371)

(Charged) / credited to income statement

  (34) 167  801  (2,101) (206) (1,373)

Charged to equity

  (303) —    (2,401) 466  —    (2,238)
                   

At 31 December, 2005

  3,615  158  389  (12,454) 310  (7,982)
                   
Deferred tax  Long-term
insurance
contracts and
investment
contracts
  Short-term
insurance
contracts
  Investments  DAC  Others  Total 
  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

As at 1 January 2005

  3,952  (9) 1,989  (10,819) 516  (4,371)

(Charged) / credited to income statement

  (34) 167  801  (2,101) (206) (1,373)

(Charged) / credited to equity

  (303) —    (2,401) 466  —    (2,238)
                   

As at 31 December 2005

  3,615  158  389  (12,454) 310  (7,982)
                   

As at 1 January 2006

  3,615  158  389  (12,454) 310  (7,982)

(Charged) / credited to income statement

  1,900  500  (5,097) (1,865) (134) (4,696)

(Charged) / credited to equity

  536  —    (8,255) 1,375  —    (6,344)
                   

As at 31 December 2006

  6,051  658  (12,963) (12,944) 176  (19,022)
                   

 

  2005 2004 
  RMB million RMB million 

Gross deferred tax assets

  4,472  6,457 

Gross deferred tax liabilities

  (12,454) (10,828)
       

Net deferred tax liabilities

  (7,982) (4,371)
       
  As at 31 December 
  2005 2004   2006 2005 
  RMB million RMB million   RMB million RMB million 

Deferred tax assets:

      

-deferred tax asset to be recovered after more than 12 months

  3,697  6,457   8,094  3,697 

-deferred tax asset to be recovered within 12 months

  775  —     1,405  775 
              

Subtotal

  4,472  6,457   9,499  4,472 
              

Deferred tax liabilities:

      

-deferred tax liability to be settled after more than 12 months

  (12,255) (10,731)  (28,169) (12,255)

-deferred tax liability to be settled within 12 months

  (199) (97)  (352) (199)
              

Subtotal

  (12,454) (10,828)  (28,521) (12,454)
              

Total net deferred income tax liabilities

  (7,982) (4,371)  (19,022) (7,982)
              

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2526EARNINGS PER SHARE

There is no difference between basic and diluted earnings per share. The basic and diluted earnings per share for the year ended 31 December 2005 is2006 are based on the weighted average number of 26,764,705,00026,777,033,767 ordinary shares (2004: 26,764,705,000 ordinary shares; 2003: 20,249,798,526 ordinary shares)(for the year ended 31 December 2005: 26,764,705,000).

 

2627DIVIDENDS PROPOSED AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATESTOCK APPRECIATION RIGHTS

AStock appreciation rights have been awarded in units, with each unit representing the value of one H share. No shares of common stock will be issued under the stock appreciation rights plan. According to the Company’s plan, all stock appreciation rights will have an exercise period of five years from date of award and will not be exercisable before the fourth anniversary of the date of award unless specified market or other conditions have been met. The exercise price of stock appreciation rights will be the average closing price of the shares in the five trading days prior to the date of the award. Upon the exercise of stock appreciation rights, exercising recipients will receive payments in RMB, subject to any withholding tax, equal to the number of stock appreciation rights exercised times the difference between the exercise price and market price of the H shares at the time of exercise.

The Board of Directors of the Company approved, on 5 January 2006, an award of stock appreciation rights of 4.05 million units and on 21 August 2006, another award of stock appreciation rights of 53.22 million units to eligible employees. The exercise prices of the two awards were HK$5.33 and HK$6.83, respectively, the average closing price of shares in the five trading days prior to 1 July 2005 and 1 January 2006, the dates for vesting and exercise price setting purposes of this award. The stock appreciation rights of 1.56 million units were exercised and no unit was forfeited or expired in 2006. As at 31 December 2006, there are 55.71 million units outstanding and 17.05 million units exercisable.

The fair value of the stock appreciation rights is estimated on the date of valuation using lattice-based option valuation models based on expected volatility from 37% to 47%, an expected dividend yield of no higher than 0.2% and risk-free interest rates from 3.5% to 3.6%.

The Company recognised compensation cost of RMB444 million in respect2006, consisting of 2005RMB431 million and RMB13 million included in other liabilities (Note 18) for the units not exercised and exercised but not paid as at 31 December 2006. The unrecognised compensation cost of RMB0.05 per ordinary share, amounting to a total dividend of RMB1,338outstanding units is approximately RMB761 million as at 31 December 2006, which is expected to be proposedrecognised within the next 2 years.

On 29 December 2006, another award of stock appreciation rights was approved in principle by the Board of Directors of the Company. The exercise price of the award is the average closing price of shares in the five trading days prior to 1 January 2007. As at 31 December 2006, the Annual General Meeting in June 2006. These financial statements do not reflect this dividend payable.recipients and quantities of the award are still to be determined and are subject to further approval.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2728DIVIDENDS

Pursuant to the shareholders’ approval at the Annual General Meeting in June 2006, a final dividend of RMB0.05 per ordinary share totalling RMB1,338 million in respect of the year ended 31 December 2005 was declared and was paid in July 2006. These dividends have been recorded in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2006.

Pursuant to a resolution passed at the meeting of the Board of Directors on 17 April 2007, a final dividend of RMB0.14 per ordinary share totalling approximately RMB3,957 million for the year ended 31 December 2006 was proposed for shareholders’ approval at the Annual General Meeting. The dividend has not been provided in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2006.

29SIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

(a)Related parties

Related parties are those parties which have the ability, directly or indirectly, to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and operating decisions. Parties are also considered to be related if they are subject to common control or common significant influence. The table set forth below summarises the names of significant related parties and nature of relationship with the Company as ofat 31 December 2005:2006:

 

Significant related party

 

Relationship with the Company

China Life Insurance (Group) Company (“CLIC”)

 The ultimate holding company

China Life AssetsInsurance Asset Management Company Limited (“AMC”)

 A subsidiary of the Company
Guangdong Development BankAn associate of the Company

China Life AssetsProperty & Casualty Insurance Company Limited

An associate of the Company

China Life Franklin Asset Management Co., Limited (formerly “China Life Asset Management (Hong Kong) Company LimitedLimited”)

 A subsidiary of AMCa subsidiary of the Company

Beijing Zhongbaoxin Real Estate Development Co. Ltd, Limited (“Zhongbaoxin”)

 A subsidiary of a subsidiary of the ultimate holding company

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

29SIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

(b)Transactions with AMC, CLIC and AMCits subsidiaries

The following table summarises significant recurring transactions carried out by the Group with AMC, CLIC and AMCits subsidiaries for the year ended 31 December 2005.2006.

 

   2005  2004  2003   For the year ended 31 December
  Note RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  Note 2006  2005  2004

Transaction with CLIC

       
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Transactions with CLIC and its subsidiaries

       

Policy management fee income earned from CLIC

  (i) 1,567  1,667  953  (i) 1,555  1,567  1,667

Asset management fee receivable earned from CLIC

  (ii) 84  73  26

Asset management fee earned from CLIC

  (ii) 84  84  73

Rewards from CLIC for non-transferred policies

  (iii) 177  —    —  

Non-performing assets management fee earned from CLIC

  (iii) 11  13  —     —    11  13

Property leasing expense charged by CLIC

  (iv) 335  335  169  (iv) 168  335  335

Dividends to CLIC

   966  —    —  

Rentals, deposits and project payments to Zhongbaoxin

  (v) 36  —    —  

Transaction with AMC

              

Asset management fee expense charged by AMC

  (ii) 239  139  8  (ii) 283  239  139

Note:

(i). As part of the restructuring, CLIC transferred its entire branch services network to the Company. CLIC and the Company have entered into a Policy Management Agreement on 30 September 2003 to engage the Company to provide policy administration services to CLIC relating to the non-transferred policies. The Company, as a service provider, does not acquire any rights or assume any obligations as an insurer under the non-transferred policies. In consideration of the services provided under the agreement, CLIC will pay the Company a service fee based on the estimated cost of providing the services, to which a profit margin is added. The service fee is equal to, for each semi-annual payment period, the sum of (1) the number of non-transferred policies in force that were within their policy term as of the last day of the period, multiplied by RMB8 per policy and (2) 2.5% of the actual premiums and deposits in respect of such policies collected during the period. The policy management fee income is included in other income through consolidated income statement.

(i)As part of the restructuring, CLIC transferred its entire branch services network to the Company. CLIC and the Company have entered into a Policy Management Agreement on 30 September 2003 to engage the Company to provide policy administration services to CLIC relating to the non-transferred policies. The Company, as a service provider, does not acquire any rights or assume any obligations as an insurer under the non-transferred policies. In consideration of the services provided under the agreement, CLIC will pay the Company a service fee based on the estimated cost of providing the services, to which a profit margin is added. The service fee is equal to, for each semi-annual payment period, the sum of (1) the number of non-transferred policies in force that were within their policy term as at the last day of the period, multiplied by RMB8.00 per policy and (2) 2.50% of the actual premiums and deposits in respect of such policies collected during the period. The policy management fee income is included in other income in consolidated income statement. On 24 December 2005, the Company and CLIC have entered into the Renewed Policy Management Agreement. There is no significant change in respect of relevant terms and conditions.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

2729Significant related party transactionsSIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

(b)Transactions with AMC, CLIC and AMCits subsidiaries (continued)

(ii). On 30 November 2003, CLIC and the Company separately entered into asset management agreements with China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited (“AMC”), the Company’s 60% owned subsidiary. The terms of the two agreements are the same. Under the agreement, AMC agreed to invest and manage assets entrusted to it by CLIC and the Company on a discretionary basis, subject to the investment guidelines and instructions given by them. In consideration of its services provided under the agreement, CLIC and the Company agreed to pay AMC a monthly service fee.

(ii)On 30 November 2003, CLIC and the Company separately entered into asset management agreements with China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited (“AMC”), the Company’s 60% owned subsidiary. The terms of the two agreements are the same. Under the agreement, AMC agreed to invest and manage assets entrusted to it by CLIC and the Company on a discretionary basis, subject to the investment guidelines and instructions given by them. In consideration of its services provided under the agreement, CLIC and the Company agreed to pay AMC a monthly service fee.

The monthly service fee is calculated on a monthly basis, by multiplying the average of net asset value of the assets in each such category under management at the end of any given month and the end of the previous month by the applicable annual rate for that month set forth in the agreement. The rate was determined based on the analysis of the cost of providing the service, market practice and the size and composition of the asset pool to be managed. If the average investment rate of return for the assets managed for a particular year exceeds a target investment rate of return, as previously agreed, by at least ten basis points, AMC will be entitled to an annual performance bonus, the amount of which shall not exceed 50% of the annual service fees for that year. If the average investment rate of return is less than the target investment rate of return, as agreed, by at least ten basis points, AMC will be required to rebate a portion of its fee, the amount of which shall not exceed 25% of the annual service fees for that year.

Under a separate agreement signed by CLIC and the Company on 30 September 2003, the Company agreed to invest and manage the assets entrusted to it by CLIC for the period prior to the establishment of AMC on 30 November 2003. Under the agreement, the scope of service to be provided by the Company and the calculation basis of the monthly service are the same as the agreement signed between CLIC and AMC as mentioned above.

The asset management fee charged the Company by AMC is eliminated through the consolidated income statement.

(iii). The Group assisted CLIC to realise in cash certain non-performing assets of CLIC and as a result, received in 2005 a fee of RMB11 million (2004: RMB13 million), being approximately 7% of cash realised by CLIC (2004: 7%).

(iv). The Company has entered into a property leasing agreement with CLIC on 30 September 2003, pursuant to which CLIC agreed to lease to the Company some of its owned and leased buildings. The annual rent payable by the Company to CLIC in relation to the CLIC owned properties is determined by reference to market rent or, the costs incurred by CLIC in holding and maintaining the properties, plus a margin of approximately 5%. The annual rent payable by the Company to CLIC in relation to the CLIC leased properties is determined by reference to the rent payable under the head lease plus the actual costs incurred by CLIC arising in connection with the subletting of the properties. The Company has directly paid the relevant rental expenses raised from CLIC leased properties to the third-party instead of CLIC.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

27SIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

(c)Amounts due from / to CLIC and its subsidiaries

The following table summarises the resulting balance due from and to CLIC and its subsidiaries. The balance is non-interest bearing, unsecured and has no fixed repayment terms.

   2005  2004 
   RBM million  RBM million 

Amount due from CLIC (Note 12)

  851  1,387 

Amount due to CLIC

  (20) (52)

Amount due to Zhongbaoxin Real Estate Development Co. Ltd

  —    (35)

(d)Key management compensation

   2005  2004  2003
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Salaries and other short-term employee benefits

  7  5  3

Termination benefits

  —    —    —  

Post-employment benefits

  —    —    —  

Other long-term benefits

  —    —    —  

Share-based payments

  —    —    —  
         

Total

  7  5  3
         

(e)Transactions with state-owned enterprises

Under HKAS 24, business transactions between state-owned enterprises controlled by the PRC government are within the scope of related party transactions. CLIC, the ultimate holding company of the Group, is a state- owned enterprise. The Group’s key business and therefore the business transactions with other state-owned enterprises are primarily related to insurance and investment activities. The related party transactions with other state-owned enterprises were conducted in the ordinary course of business. Due to the complex ownership structure, the PRC government may hold indirect interests in many companies. Some of these interests may, in themselves or when combined with other indirect interests, be controlling interests which may not be known to the Group. Nevertheless, the Group believes that the following captures the material related parties.

As at 31 December 2005, more than 63% (2004: more than 72%) of bank deposits were with state-owned banks; approximately 94% (2004: approximately 91%) of the issuers of corporate bonds and subordinated bonds/debts held by the Group were state-owned enterprises. For the year end 31 December 2005, more than 82% (2004: more than 89%) of the group insurance business of the Group were with state-owned enterprises; approximately 88% (2004: approximately 67%) of bankassurance brokerage charges of RMB3,144 million (2004: RMB1,929 million) were paid to state-owned banks and post office; almost all of the reinsurance agreements of the Group are entered into with a state-owned reinsurance company; more than 63% (2004: more than 72%) of bank deposit interest income were from state-owned banks.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

27SIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

(f)Renewed connected transaction agreements

i) On 24 December 2005, the Company and CLIC have entered into the Renewed Policy Management Agreement. There is no significant change in respect of relevant terms and conditions.

ii) On 27 December 2005, CLIC and the AMC entered into the renewed CLIC asset management agreement. Under the new agreement, CLIC agreed to pay the AMC a service fee at the rate of 0.05% per annum. The service fee is calculated and payable on a monthly basis, by multiplying the average of balance of book value of the assets under management (after deducting the funds obtained and interests accrued from repurchase transactions) at the beginning and at the end of any given month by the rate of 0.05%, divided by 12. Such rate was determined by the AMC and CLIC with reference to the applicable management fee rate pre-determined for each specified category of assets managed by the AMC under the renewed Company asset management agreement, which was a comprehensive service fee rate arrived at.

On 29 December 2005, the Company and the AMC entered into the renewed Company asset management agreements.agreement. Under the new agreement, the Company agreesagreed to pay the AMC:AMC a fixed service fee and a variable service fee. The fixed service fee is payable monthly and is calculated with reference to the net asset value of the assets in each specified category managed by the AMC and the applicable management fee rates pre-determined by the parties on an arm’s length basis. The variable service fee equals to 10% of the fixed service fee per annum payable annually. The service fees under the renewed Company asset management agreement were determined by the Company and the AMC based on an analysis of the cost of service, market practice and the size and composition of the asset pool to be managed.

Although the representation of the service fee rates under the renewed CLIC asset management agreement and the renewed Company asset management agreement is different, the ultimate comprehensive service fee rate calculated under each of these two agreements is basically the same.

iii) The Company entered into the Renewed Property Leasing Agreement with CLIC on 23 December 2005asset management fee charged to renew the Property Leasing Agreement in the foregoing statement. There is no significant difference between two agreements with regard to relevant terms and conditions for some supplementary information.

iv) CLIC is a connected person of the Company by virtue of its being a controlling shareholder ofAMC is eliminated through the Company. AMC, a 60% owned subsidiary of the Company, is owned as to 40% by CLIC and is thus a connected person of the Company under Rule 14A11(5) of the Listing Rules. Given that the annual consideration payable under each of the Agreements represents less than 2.5% of the applicable percentage ratios, as defined in the Listing Rules, each of the Agreements falls within Rule 14A34 and is only subject to reporting, announcement and annual review requirements under the Listing Rules and is exempt from independent shareholders’ approval.consolidated income statement.

28SHARE CAPITAL

   Registered, issued and fully paid
   Ordinary shares of RMB 1 each
   No. of shares  RMB million

At 31 December 2004

  26,764,705,000  26,765
      

At 31 December 2005

  26,764,705,000  26,765
      

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

29RESERVESSIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

 

   

Additional

Paid in

Capital

  

Unrealised

gains/(losses)

  

Statutory

Reserve

Fund

  

Statutory

Welfare

Fund

  Total 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 
         (a)  (a)    

At 1 January 2003

  113  1,317  —    —    1,430 

Issue of shares

  19,328  —    —    —    19,328 

Share issue expenses

  (1,386) —    —    —    (1,386)

Unrealised losses, net of tax

        

- arising from non-trading securities during the period

  —    (2,819) —    —    (2,819)

- reclassification adjustment for gains/(losses) included in income statement

  —    (103) —    —    (103)

- impact from non-trading securities on other assets and liabilities

  —    190  —    —    190 

Transfer from retained earnings to reserves

  —    —    27  26  53 
                

Subtotal

  17,942  (2,732) 27  26  15,263 
                

Capital contribution by CLIC

  16,721  637  —    —    17,358 
                

Change in the year

  34,663  (2,095) 27  26  32,621 
                

At 31 December 2003

  34,776  (778) 27  26  34,051 
                

Unrealised losses, net of tax

        

- arising from non-trading securities during the period

  —    (2,902) —    —    (2,902)

- reclassification adjustment for gains/(losses) included in income statement

  —    61  —    —    61 

- impact from non-trading securities on other assets and liabilities

  —    (236) —    —    (236)

Appropriation to statutory reserve

  —    —    299  300  599 
                

Change in the year

  —    (3,077) 299  300  (2,478)
                

At 31 December 2004

  34,776  (3,855) 326  326  31,573 
                

Unrealised gains, net of tax

        

- arising from available-for-sale securities during the period

  —    4,977  —    —    4,977 

- reclassification adjustment for gains/(losses) included in income statement

  —    (103) —    —    (103)

- impact from available-for-sale securities on other assets and liabilities

  —    (332) —    —    (332)

Appropriation to statutory reserve

  —    —    555  555  1,110 
                

Change in the year

  —    4,542  555  555  5,652 
                

At 31 December 2005

  34,776  687  881  881  37,225 
                

(a)(b)Under related PRC law,Transactions with AMC, CLIC and its subsidiaries (continued)

(iii)The Company assisted CLIC to mitigate business risk arising from non-transferred policies, and received in 2006 a fee income of RMB177 million from CLIC as the Group should appropriate 10%reward for such non-transferable policies.

(iv)The Company has entered into a property leasing agreement with CLIC on 30 September 2003, pursuant to which CLIC agreed to lease to the Company some of net profitits owned and leased buildings. The annual rent payable by the Company to CLIC in relation to the CLIC owned properties is determined by reference to market rent or, the costs incurred by CLIC in holding and maintaining the properties, plus a margin of approximately 5%. The annual rent payable by the Company to CLIC in relation to the CLIC leased properties is determined by reference to the rent payable under PRC GAAP as statutory reserve fund and 5%-10% as statutory welfare fund. With approvalthe head lease plus the actual costs incurred by CLIC arising in connection with the subletting of the related authority, statutory reserve fund can be usedproperties. The Company has directly paid the relevant rental expenses raised from CLIC leased properties to offset accumulative losses or increase additional paid-in capital. Statutory welfare fund is used for employees’ welfare. Inthe third-party instead of CLIC. On 23 December 2005, the Group appropriate 10%Company and CLIC have entered into the Renewed Property Leasing Agreement, which expired on 31 December 2006 and subject to renewal. On 4 January 2007, the Company and CLIC have entered into the Renewed Property Leasing Agreement, which will expire on 31 December 2009 and subject to renewal. There is no significant change in respect of net profit under PRC GAAP which is RMB555 million as statutory reserve fund (2004: RMB299 million)relevant terms and 10% of net profit under PRC GAAP which is RMB555 million as statutory welfare fund (2004: RMB300 million).conditions.

(v)The Group made certain project payments to third parties through Zhongbaoxin and paid other miscellaneous expenditures mainly comprised of rentals and deposits to Zhongbaoxin.

(c)Amounts due from / to CLIC and its subsidiaries

The following table summarises the resulting balance due from and to CLIC and its subsidiaries. The balance is non-interest bearing, unsecured and has no fixed repayment terms.

   As at
31 December
2006
  As at
31 December
2005
 
   RMB million  RMB million 

Amount due from CLIC (Note 13)

  996  851 

Amount due to CLIC

  (3) (20)

Amount due from Zhongbaoxin

  1  1 

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

29RESERVESSIGNIFICANT RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (continued)

(d)Key management compensation

   For the year ended 31 December
   2006  2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Salaries and other short-term employee benefits

  12  7  5

Termination benefits

  —    —    —  

Post-employment benefits

  —    —    —  

Other long-term benefits

  —    —    —  

Share-based payments

  —    —    —  
         

Total

  12  7  5
         

(e)Transactions with state-owned enterprises

Under HKAS 24, business transactions between state-owned enterprises controlled by the PRC government are within the scope of related party transactions. CLIC, the ultimate holding company of the Group, is a state-owned enterprise. The Group’s key business and therefore the business transactions with other state-owned enterprises are primarily related to insurance and investment activities. The related party transactions with other state-owned enterprises were conducted in the ordinary course of business. Due to the complex ownership structure, the PRC government may hold indirect interests in many companies. Some of these interests may, in themselves or when combined with other indirect interests, be controlling interests which may not be known to the Group. Nevertheless, the Group believes that the following captures the material related parties.

As at 31 December 2006, more than 70% (as at 31 December 2005: more than 63%) of bank deposits were with state-owned banks; approximately 95% (as at 31 December 2005: approximately 94%) of the issuers of corporate bonds and subordinated bonds/debts held by the Group were state-owned enterprises. For the year ended 31 December 2006, more than 71% (for the year ended 31 December 2005: more than 82%) of the group insurance business of the Group were with state-owned enterprises; approximately 89% (for the year ended 31 December 2005: approximately 88%) of bank assurance brokerage charges of RMB 1,989 million (for the year ended 31 December 2005: RMB3,144 million) were paid to state-owned banks and post office; almost all of the reinsurance agreements of the Group are entered into with a state-owned reinsurance company; more than 70% (for the year ended 31 December 2005: more than 63%) of bank deposit interest income were from state-owned banks.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

30SHARE CAPITAL

   As at 31 December 2006  As at 31 December 2005
   No. of shares  RMB million  No. of shares  RMB million

Registered, issued and fully paid

Ordinary shares of RMB1 each

  26,764,705,000  26,765  26,764,705,000  26,765

New Shares issued

  1,500,000,000  1,500  —    —  
            

Total

  28,264,705,000  28,265  26,764,705,000  26,765
            

As at 31 December 2006, the Company’s share capital after the new share issued is as follows:

    As at 31 December 2006
    No. of shares  RMB million

Owned by CLIC

  19,323,530,000  19,324

Owned by other shareholders

  8,941,175,000  8,941

Including: domestic listed

  1,500,000,000  1,500

overseas listed

  7,441,175,000  7,441
       

Total

  28,264,705,000  28,265
       

Overseas listed shares are only traded on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. 600,000,000, 300,000,000 and 600,000,000 shares of newly issued domestic listed shares may only be traded on the Shanghai Stock Exchange since 9 January 2007, 9 April 2007 and 9 January 2008, respectively. The shares owned by CLIC are not transferable until 11 January 2010.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

31RESERVES

   

Additional paid in

capital

  

Unrealised

gains/(losses)

  Reserve fund  Total 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 
         (a)    

As at 1 January 2004

  34,776  (778) 53  34,051 

Unrealised losses, net of tax

      

- arising from available-for-sale securities during the period

  —    (2,902) —    (2,902)

- reclassification adjustment for losses included in income statement

  —    61  —    61 

- impact from available-for-sale securities on other assets and liabilities

  —    (236) —    (236)

Appropriation to reserve fund

  —    —    599  599 
             

Change in the year

  —    (3,077) 599  (2,478)
             

As at 31 December 2004

  34,776  (3,855) 652  31,573 
             

Unrealised gains, net of tax

      

- arising from available-for-sale securities during the period

  —    4,977  —    4,977 

- reclassification adjustment for gains included in income statement

  —    (103) —    (103)

- impact from available-for-sale securities on other assets and liabilities

  —    (332) —    (332)

Appropriation to reserve fund

  —    —    1,110  1,110 
             

Change in the year

  —    4,542  1,110  5,652 
             

As at 31 December 2005

  34,776  687  1,762  37,225 
             

Issue of shares

  26,820  —    —    26,820 

Share issue expenses

  (510) —    —    (510)

Unrealised gains, net of tax

      

- arising from available-for-sale securities during the period

  —    16,812  —    16,812 

- reclassification adjustment for gains included in income statement

  —    (77) —    (77)

- impact from available-for-sale securities on other assets and liabilities

  —    (3,876) —    (3,876)

Appropriation to reserve fund

  —    —    974  974 
             

Change in the year

  26,310  12,859  974  40,143 
             

As at 31 December 2006

  61,086  13,546  2,736  77,368 
             

      
(a)Under relevant PRC law, the Group is required to transfer 10% of its net profit to statutory reserve fund. The Group appropriated 10% of net profit to statutory reserve fund for the year ended 31 December 2006.

Under related PRC law, dividends may be paid only out of distributable profits. Distributable profits means the Group’s after-tax profits as determined under accounting standards generally accepted in PRC GAAP or Hong Kong GAAP,HKFRS, whichever is lower, less any recovery of accumulated losses and allocations to statutory funds that the Group is required to make. Any distributable profits that are not distributed in a given year are retained and available for distribution in subsequent years. The amount of distributable retained earnings based on the above is RMB6,878RMB14,167 million as at 31 December 2005.2006. (as at 31 December 2005: RMB6,878 million).

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3032CONTINGENCIES

The following is a summary of the significant contingent liabilities:

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

Pending lawsuits (b)

  31  22
   

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

   RMB million  RMB million

Pending lawsuits (b)

  54  31

(a)NineThe Company and certain of its past directors (the “defendants”) have been named in nine putative class action lawsuits filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York against the Group and certain of its officers and directors between 16 March 2004 and 14 May 20042004. The lawsuits have been ordered to be consolidated and restyledIn re China Life Insurance Company Limited Securities Litigation,, No. 04 NO.04 CV 2112 (TPG). Plaintiffs filed a consolidated amended complaint on 19 January, 2005, which names the Group,Company, Wang Xianzhang (past director), Miao Fuchun (past director) and Wu Yan (past director) as defendants. The consolidated amended complaintcompliant alleges that the defendants named therein violated Section 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. The GroupCompany has engaged U.S. counsel to contest vigorously on behalf of the Group.lawsuits. The defendants jointly moved to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint on 21 March, 2005. Plaintiffs then further amended their complaint. Defendants moved to dismiss the second amended complaintcompliant on 18 November, 18, 2005. That motion has been fully briefed and is pending before the Court. The likelihood of an unfavourable outcome is still uncertain. No provision has been made with respect to these lawsuits.
(b)The Group has been named in a number of lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business. Provision has been made for the probable losses to the Group on those claims when management can reasonably estimate the outcome of the lawsuits taking into account the legal advice. No provision has been made for pending lawsuits when the outcome of the lawsuits cannot be reasonably estimated or management believes a loss is not probable.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3133COMMITMENTS

 

(a)Capital commitments

i)Capital commitments for property, plant and equipment

 

   2005  2004
   RMB million  RMB million

Contracted but not provided for

  121  290
   

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

   RMB million  RMB million

Contracted but not provided for

  990  121

ii)Capital commitments to acquire Bohai Venture Capital Fund

The Group committed to contribute RMB500 million to Bohai Venture Capital Fund and RMB5 million to Bohai Venture Capital Fund Management Company of which RMB50 million was paid to the fund on 25 December 2006. The remaining RMB455 million will be paid when called.

 

(b)Operating lease commitments

The Group has commitments to make the following future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases:leases are as follows:

 

  2005  2004  

As at

31 December

2006

  

As at

31 December

2005

  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million  RMB million

Land and buildings

        

Not later than one year

  250  338  242  250

Later than one year but not later than five years

  248  4  386  248

Later than five years

  23  —    50  23
      

Total

  678  521
      

The operating lease payments charged to the consolidated income statement for the year ended 31 December 20052006 was RMB409RMB391 million (2004: RMB400(for the year ended 31 December 2005: RMB409 million).

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3234SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

(a) Related party transactions

(i)Preliminary Agreement in relation to the establishment of the Property and Casualty Insurance Joint Stock Company

On 13 March 2006,4 January 2007, the Company signed an agreement with CLIC to purchase Property, plant and equipment with a total capital expenditure of RMB488 million, based on appraisal value.

As approved by CIRC, the Company entered intoan agreement with CLIC and AMC to establish China Life Pension Company Limited with a Preliminary Agreement in relation to the establishment of the Property and Casualty Insurance Joint Stock Company. The proposed registeredtotal paid-in capital of the Property and Casualty Insurance Joint Stock Company will be RMB1,000 million ordinary shares of RMB1.00 each. Upon its establishment, CLIC will own 60% of the Property and Casualty Insurance Joint Stock Company and the Company will own the remaining 40%.RMB600 million. The terms of the Preliminary Agreement are subject to approval by CIRC and once approved, CLIC and the Company will enter into the Definitive Agreement which will replace the Preliminary Agreement.

(ii)Promoters Agreement in relation to the establishment of China Life Pension Company.

On 21 March 2006, the Company, CLIC and AMC entered into the Promoters Agreement, whereby the Company, CLICowns 55%, 25% and AMC agreed to act as promoters and set up China Life Pension Company as a professional pension insurance company in the PRC for developing its pension insurance business. Upon its establishment, China Life Pension Company will become a subsidiary of the Company. The total registered capital20% of China Life Pension Company will be RMB600 million, divided into 600,000,000 shares.Limited, respectively. China Life Pension Company Limited was incorporated on 15 January 2007. The Company, CLICGroup holds directly and AMC will contribute 55%, 25% and 20%indirectly 75% of the registered capital respectively. The Promoters Agreement andshare capital.

(b) Change of PRC enterprise income tax rate

On 16 March 2007, the transactions contemplated thereunder are subject toNational People’s Congress approved the approval of CIRC. CLIC is the holding companyCorporate Income Tax Law of the Company, currently holding an approximate 72.2%People’s Republic of China (the new “CIT Law”). The new CIT Law reduces the domestic corporate income tax rate from 33% to 25% with effect from 1 January 2008. Since determination of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities is at the statutory tax rate effective for the periods over which deferred tax assets are recovered and deferred tax liabilities are discharged, the change on statutory tax rate will affect the carrying amount of the issued share capitalGroup’s deferred tax liabilities. As at the date that these consolidated financial statements are approved for issue, detailed measures of the Company, and therefore is a substantial shareholder (as definednew CIT Law have yet to be issued by the State Council, concerning uncertain items of statutory tax rate effective in the Listing Rules)accounting periods beginning on or after in 1 January 2008, determination of taxable income, preferential tax rates as well as tax incentives and accompanying transitional means in force. Consequently, the Company. AMC, held by CLICGroup is not in a position to reasonably assess the impact, if any, on the carrying amount of deferred tax liabilities as at 31 December 2006. The Group will continue to 40%, is an associate (as defined inevaluate the Listing Rules)impact on results of CLIC. Accordingly, both CLICoperations and AMCfinancial position as more detailed regulations are connected persons of the Company and therefore the Promoters Agreement and the transactions contemplated thereunder constitute a connected transaction for the Company under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules. Since the applicable percentage ratios set out in Rule 14.07 of the Listing Rules for the Company and AMC with regard to the Promoters Agreement exceed 0.1% but are less than 2.5%, according to Rule 14A.32, the Company is only subject to the reporting and announcement requirements and is exempt from the independent shareholders’ approval requirements under the Listing Rules.

(iii)Proposed dividends

After the balance sheet date, the board of directors proposed a dividend in respect of 2005. Further details are disclosed in Note 26.announced.

 

3335ULTIMATE HOLDING COMPANY

The directors regard China Life Insurance (Group) Company, a company incorporated in the PRC, as being the ultimate holding company.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3436Reconciliation ofRECONCILIATION OF HKFRS and United States generally accepted accounting principlesAND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (“US GAAP”)

 

(a)The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with HKFRS, which differs in certain significant respects from US GAAP. DifferencesHKFRS. There are no material differences between HKFRS and US GAAP which may have significant impactsthat had an effect on consolidated net profit/(loss)profit for the years ended 31 December 2006, 2005 and consolidated2004 and shareholders’ equity are described below.

There are no material difference between HKFRS and US GAAP that had an effect on net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company for the years ended 31 December 2004as at 31 December 2006 and 2005. The effect on net loss attributable to shareholders of the Company of material differences between HKFRS and US GAAP for the year ended 31 December 2003 is as follows:

2003
RMB million

Net loss attributable to shareholders of the Company under HKFRS

(4,252)

US GAAP adjustments

Depreciation of investment properties

(40)

Deficit on revaluation of investment properties

181

Liability adequacy test under HKFRS

2,824

Net loss attributable to shareholders of the Company under US GAAP

(1,287)

There are no material differences between HKFRS and US GAAP that had an effect on Shareholders’ equity as at December 31, 2004 and 2005.

Investment Properties

Under HKFRS, investment properties are valued on an open market value basis. Under US GAAP, investment properties are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment loss. Cost of investment properties, less residual value, is depreciated using a straight-line method over its estimated useful life.

During 2003, there was a deficit on revaluation of investment properties totalling RMB 181 million charged to the consolidated income statement under HKFRS. As at 30 September 2003, all investment properties were retained by CLIC and derecognised from the Group’s consolidated balance sheet as a result of the Restructuring. The accumulated depreciation and revaluation deficit related to the investment properties were also retained by CLIC and no longer constituted a GAAP difference to the Group’s consolidated income statement for the year ended 31 December 2005 and 2004 and shareholder’s equity as at 31 December 2005 and 2004.

Property, plant, and equipment

Certain property, plant and equipment on hand as of 1 January 2000 have been valued at fair values rather than at historical cost less depreciation, which is required by US GAAP. The Group has not been able to quantify the effect of the difference in accounting treatment because, prior to 1 January 1997, the predecessor company did not maintain sufficiently detailed historical cost records. The fair market values recorded in the opening balance of the Group at 1 January 2000 have been carried forward as the deemed cost.

Liabilities of insurance contracts

At each balance sheet date, liability tests are performed to ensure the adequacy of insurance contract liabilities net of DAC, which is required by HKFRS. Under HKFRS, any deficiencies on these contracts would be recognized in the consolidated income statement. Under US GAAP, investment contracts within the scope of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 97 are not permitted to recognize the portion of the deficiencies representing future negative investment income and expenses spreads in the consolidated income statement. At the time of the Restructuring at 30 June 2003, insurance policies issued after 10 June 1999 were “transferred” to the Group. All insurance policies issued prior to that date were retained by CLIC and are referred to as the “non-transferred policies”. While the Group continues to administer the “non-transferred policies” under an administration agreement with CLIC, it has no continuing exposure to insurance risk related to the “non-transferred policies”. Liability adequacy tests (as described in Note 2.8.1c) were performed for the “non-transferred policies” classified as long-term traditional insurance contracts and long-term investment type insurance contracts as of 31 December 2002 and 30 September 2003, using best estimate assumptions appropriate as of those dates. The additional reserve of RMB 67,773 million at 31 December 2002 and RMB 70,597 million at 30 September 2003 was required for long-term investment type insurance contracts, resulting in an additional change in the reserve of RMB 2,824 million, which has been included in insurance benefits and claims for the year ended 31 December 2003. Since the Restructuring, the “non-transferred policies” are no longer included in the Group’s financial statements. Further, no additional reserves would have been required for the “transferred policies” and the policies issued since 30 June 2003 at any valuation date up to and including 31 December 2005 for the Group. As a result, there is no impact on the shareholders’ equity as at 31 December 2003, 2004 and 2005.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

34Reconciliation of HKFRS and United States generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”) (continued)

 

(b)Statutory Information

 

   As at 31 December 
   2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million 

Actual solvency

  59,561  54,456 

Minimum solvency

  21,782  17,264 

Solvency ratio

  273% 315%
   As at 31 December
   2006  2005
   RMB million  RMB million

Actual solvency margin

  96,297  59,561

Minimum solvency margin

  27,549  21,782

Solvency ratio

  350%   273% 

According to Article 2003.1 issued by the CIRC Order [2003] No.1, all insurance companies have to report their actual solvency margin (i.e. admitted statutory capital and surplus) to the CIRC at the end of each fiscal year. The solvency ratio is computed by dividing the actual solvency margin by the minimum solvency margin (i.e. minimum statutory capital and surplus necessary to satisfy regulatory requirement). CIRC will closely monitor those insurance companies with solvency ratio less than 100% and may, depending on the individual circumstances, undertake certain regulatory measures, including but not limited to restricting the payment of dividends.

 

(c)Disclosures about available-for-sale securities/non-trading securities in an unrealised loss position

 

     As at 31 December 2005      As at 31 December 2006 
     

Less

than

6 months

 

More than

6 months but

less than 12

months

 

More

than 12

months

 Total      

Less than

6 months

 

More than

6 months but
less than 12
months

 More than
12 months
 Total 
     RMB million RMB million RMB million RMB million      RMB million RMB million RMB million RMB million 

Debt securities

              

Government

  Fair value  12,861  —    6,874  19,735   Fair value  22,050  1,198  7,149  30,397 

Bonds

  Unrealised losses  (236) —    (179) (415)

bonds

  Unrealised losses  (362) (15) (192) (569)

Government

  Fair value  16,008  —    1,871  17,879   Fair value  15,471  1,265  1,497  18,233 

agency bonds

  Unrealised losses  (385) —    (73) (458)  Unrealised losses  (180) (41) (22) (243)

Corporate

  Fair value  75  17  775  867   Fair value  13,502  6,605  566  20,673 

Bonds

  Unrealised losses  (4) (1) (9) (14)

bonds

  Unrealised losses  (240) (234) (13) (487)

Subordinate

  Fair value  291  —    —    291   Fair value  2,329  —    —    2,329 

Bonds/debts

  Unrealised losses  (22) —    —    (22)

bonds/debts

  Unrealised losses  (37) —    —    (37)

Equity securities

  Fair value  3,267  1,696  —    4,963   Fair value  1,273  —    —    1,273 
  Unrealised losses  (58) (95) —    (153)  Unrealised losses  (136) —    —    (136)
               

Total temporarily

  Fair value  32,502  1,713  9,520  43,735   Fair value  54,625  9,068  9,212  72,905 
               

impaired securities

  Unrealised losses  (705) (96) (261) (1,062)  Unrealised losses  (955) (290) (227) (1,472)
               

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3436Reconciliation ofRECONCILIATION OF HKFRS and United States generally accepted accounting principlesAND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (“US GAAP”) (continued)

 

(c)Disclosures about available-for-sale securities/non-trading securities in an unrealised loss position (continued)

 

     As at 31 December 2004      As at 31 December 2005 
     

Less

than

6 months

 

More than

6 months but

less than 12

months

 

More

than 12

months

 Total      

Less than

6 months

 

More than

6 months but

less than 12
months

 

More than

12 months

 Total 
     RMB million RMB million RMB million RMB million      RMB million RMB million RMB million RMB million 

Debt securities

              

Government

  Fair value  8,113  4,250  21,122  33,485   Fair value  12,861  —    6,874  19,735 

Bonds

  Unrealised losses  (626) (327) (3,415) (4,368)

bonds

  Unrealised losses  (236) —    (179) (415)

Government

  Fair value  12,390  5,149  2,312  19,851   Fair value  16,008  —    1,871  17,879 

agency bonds

  Unrealised losses  (213) (148) (77) (438)  Unrealised losses  (385) —    (73) (458)

Corporate

  Fair value  514  384  2,739  3,637   Fair value  75  17  775  867 

Bonds

  Unrealised losses  (19) (67) (468) (554)

bonds

  Unrealised losses  (4) (1) (9) (14)

Subordinate

  Fair value  291  —    —    291 

bonds/debts

  Unrealised losses  (22) —    —    (22)

Equity securities

  Fair value  7,802  2,726  —    10,528   Fair value  3,267  1,696  —    4,963 
  Unrealised losses  (291) (377) —    (668)  Unrealised losses  (58) (95) —    (153)
               

Total temporarily

  Fair value  28,819  12,509  26,173  67,501   Fair value  32,502  1,713  9,520  43,735 
               

impaired securities

  Unrealised losses  (1,149) (919) (3,960) (6,028)  Unrealised losses  (705) (96) (261) (1,062)
               

Available-for-sale securities/Non-trading securities have generally been identified as temporarily impaired if their amortised cost as at 31 December 20052006 was greater than their fair value, resulting in an unrealised loss. Unrealised gains and losses in respect of investments designated as financial assets at fair value through income/trading securitiesincome have been included in net income and have been excluded from the above table. Unrealised losses from debt securities are largely due to interest rate fluctuations. Based on a review of these financial assets, it is believed that the contractual terms of these available-for-sale securities/Non-trading securities will be met. A total 39163 debt securities positions and 3323 equity securities positions were in an unrealised loss position at 31 December 20052006 of which 32130 debt securities and 1823 equity securities positions were in a continuous loss position for less than 6 months, 174 debt securities position and 15 equity securities positions for more than 6 months but less than 12 months and 1016 debt securities positions for more than 12 months.

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

 

3436RECONCILIATION OF HKFRS AND UNITED STATES GENERALLY ACCEPTED ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES (“US GAAP”) (continued)

(d)Comprehensive income

   2006  2005  2004 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company

  19,956  9,306  7,171 

Total other comprehensive income, unrealised gains/(losses), net of tax (Note 31)

  12,859  4,542  (3,077)
          

Total comprehensive income

  32,815  13,848  4,094 
          

CHINA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2006

36Reconciliation of HKFRS and United States generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”) (continued)

 

(d)Comprehensive incomes/(losses)

   2005  2004  2003 
   RMB million  RMB million  RMB million 

Net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company

  9,306  7,171  (4,252)

Total other comprehensive incomes/(losses), unrealised gains/losses, net of tax (Note 29)

  4,542  (3,077) (2,732)
          

Total comprehensive incomes/(losses)

  13,848  4,094  (6,984)
          

(e)Recently issued US accounting standards

In May 2005, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued SFAS No.154 “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections”. SFAS No.154 replaces APB Opinion No.20, Accounting Changes, and FASB Statement No.3, Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements, and changes the requirements for the accounting for and reporting of a change in accounting principle. The statement establishes, unless impracticable, retrospective application as the required method for reporting a change in accounting principle in the absence of explicit transition requirements specific to the newly adopted accounting principle. Effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after 15 December 2005. The Group is required to adopt SFAS No.154 in the fiscal year beginning 1 January 2006. The Group considered the effects of adoption SFAS No.154 does not have material impact on its financial statements.

InOn 19 September 2005, the Accounting Standards Executive Committee (“AcSEC”) of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (“AICPA”)AICPA issued Statement of Position (“SOP”) 05-1, “Accounting by Insurance Enterprises for Deferred Acquisition Costs in Connection Withwith Modifications or Exchanges of Insurance Contracts.”Contracts” (SOP 05-1). SOP 05-1 provides guidance on accounting by insurance enterprises for deferred acquisition costsDAC on internal replacements of insurance and investment contracts other than those specifically described in SFAS No.FAS 97. The SOP 05-1 defines an internal replacement as a modification in product benefits, features, rights, or coveragescoverage that occurs by the exchange of a contract for a new contract, or by amendment, endorsement, or rider to a contract, or by the election of a feature or coverage within a contract. This SOP 05-1 is effective for internal replacements occurring inthe Group’s fiscal years beginning after 15year ending December 2006.31,2007. The Group will adopt SOP 05-1is currently assessing the impact of SOP05-1 on 1 Januarythe Group’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

On 16 February 2006, the FASB issued FAS 155, “Accounting for Certain Hybrid Financial Instruments” (FAS 155), an amendment of FAS 140 and FAS 133. FAS 155 allows the Group to include changes in fair value in earnings on an instrument-by-instrument basis for any hybrid financial instrument that contains an embedded derivative that would otherwise be required to be bifurcated and accounted for separately under FAS 133. FAS 155 is effective for the Group’s fiscal year ending December 31 2007. The Group considered the effects of adopting FAS 155 and does not expect it to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

On 13 July 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (FIN 48), which clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income tax positions. FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attributable for the financial statement recognition and measurement of an income tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, and additional disclosures. The cumulative effect of adopting FIN 48 is to be recorded as an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption. FIN 48 is effective for the Group’s fiscal year ending December 31, 2007. The Group is currently assessing the impact of SOP 05-1FIN 48 on the Group’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In September 2006, the FASB issued FAS 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (FAS 157). FAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. FAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for accounting periods beginning on or after 15 November 2007. The Group is currently assessing the impact of FAS 157 on the Group’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

In November 2005,February 2007, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (“FSP”) SFAS No.115-1/124-1,FAS 159, “The Meaning of Other- Than-Temporary impairmentFair Value Option for Financial Assets and Its ApplicationFinancial Liabilities” (FAS 159). FAS 159 permits entities to Certain Investments”. The FSP nullifieschoose to measure at fair value many financial instruments and certain other items that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. Subsequent changes in fair value for designated items will be required to be reported in earnings in the accounting guidance relating to the recognition of investment portfolio other-than-temporary impairments of EITF 03-01, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairmentcurrent period. FAS 159 also establishes presentation and Its Application to Certain Investments”; carries forward the disclosure requirements included in the EITF 03-01for similar types of assets and references existing other-than-temporary impairment guidance including SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities. The FSPliabilities measured at fair value. FAS 159 is effective 1 January 2006 andfor financial statements issued for accounting periods beginning on or after 15 November 2007. The Group is not expected to have a materialcurrently assessing the impact of FAS 159 on the Group’s consolidated financial statement.

EXHIBIT INDEXposition and results of operations.

 

No.

Description of Exhibit

  1.1  Amended and Restated Articles of Association of the Registrant
  2.1  Form of H share certificate*
  2.2  Form of Deposit Agreement, including form of American Depositary Receipt†
  4.1  Form of U.S. and International Underwriting Agreement*
  4.2  Form of Hong Kong Underwriting Agreement*
  4.3  Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Mitcham Resources Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
  4.4  Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Hutchison International Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
  4.5  Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Richbo Investment Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
  4.6  Corporate Placing Agreement among China Life Insurance Company Limited, Chow Tai Fook Nominee Limited, China International Capital Corporation Limited, Citigroup Global Markets Asia Limited, Credit Suisse First Boston (Hong Kong) Limited and Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch*
  4.7  Restructuring Agreement*
  4.8  Trademark License Agreement*
  4.9  Policy Management Agreement
  4.10Asset Management Agreement between China Life Insurance Company Limited and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited
  4.11Asset Management Agreement between China Life Insurance (Group) Company and China Life Insurance Asset Management Company Limited
  4.12Property Leasing Agreement
  4.13Non-Competition Agreement*
  4.14Promoters Agreement for the Formation of China Life Pension Company Limited
  4.15Share Subscription Agreement for the Formation of a Property and Casualty Insurance Company
  4.16Service agreement with independent director Long Yongtuà
  4.17Service agreement with independent director Chau Tak Hayà

iiF-70


No.

Description of Exhibit

  4.18Service agreement with independent director Sun ShuyiD
  4.19Service agreement with independent director Cai RangD
  8.1  List of subsidiaries of the Registrant
11.1  Code of Business Conduct and EthicsD
12.1  Certification of CEO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
12.2  Certification of CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a)
13.1  Certification of CEO and CFO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code

*Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-110615), filed with the Commission on December 9, 2003.

Incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-110622), filed with the Commission on December 9, 2003.

àIncorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, filed with the Commission on June 28, 2004.

DIncorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, filed with the Commission on May 27, 2005.

iii