Not every cloud has a silver lining -- but Shanghai's weather brokers will try to ensure that businesses can at least maximize their profits.

Shanghai Meteorological Bureau is planning to openly recruit its first group of potential brokers and offer professional training.

Statistics show that more and more enterprises ask for accurate meteorological data in the process of production, sales and circulation.

As well as offering public weather information, professional weather brokers are expected to provide specific services and products according to individual enterprise demands. For instance, makers and sellers of ice-cream, air conditioning and clothes can get weather information to help guide their business decisions.

Shanghai started the weather service business two years ago. This year alone, more than 100 enterprises signed agreements worth nearly 10 million yuan (1.2 million US dollars) with meteorological departments for special services.

(Xinhua News Agency July 10, 2002)