INTERNATIONAL Dairy Queen Inc said yesterday it plans to open over 100 stores next year in China as the increasing consumer base is driving the country to be its fastest growing market globally.

The world's leading ice cream chain, a part of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway family, said China has become its second-largest market following its home market in the United States.

"By the end of 2011, we aim to have 500 stores in China," said John Gainor, president and CEO of IDQ, at a ceremony to celebrate its 6,000th store globally in Shanghai.

Shanghai Shida Catering Management Co, IDQ's Chinese partner, said it plans to open 1,000 stores in China's southern areas.