US-based software maker VMware plans to more than double its research and development staff in China within 18 months, despite the economic slowdown.

"China is one of the fastest growing markets for us and the fundamentals for the market will remain strong," said Mike Clayville, vice-president and general manager of VMware.

"We are going to increase the R&D staff here up to 300 within 18 months as well as strengthen our field resources dramatically."