Microsoft has opened an online store in China at microsoftstore.com.cn.

Amongst other items the store will also be selling Microsoft’s Surface tablets there, which should make shoppers who prefer getting their warranty directly from Microsoft happy. Microsoft will also be distributing its Surface tablets through major Chinese retailer Suning.

“The new Microsoft online store will provide an easy access for a broad range of Microsoft products to Chinese consumers,” says the company.

“Microsoft is working with Chinese retailer Suning to bring Surface with Windows RT to 500 retail stores across mainland China and Hong Kong, as well as through its online store www.suning.com,” added a spokesperson.

The Chinese Surface tablet will be somewhat different from the worldwide one, to comply with Chinese rules and regulations, including the absence of Facebook and Twitter integration for example.

Microsoft is rumoured to have ordered up to 5 million Surface tablets, and will need as many distribution outlets as possible to meet that sales target.

GB