Chinese shares close down 2.52 percent

Chinese share prices closed 2.52 percent lower on Monday in thin trading as weakness in most Asian markets dampened investors' spirits, dealers said.

Heavy falls in oil majors also dragged down the key index, as investors booked profits after previous sharp gains due to the government's fuel price hike announcement last week.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index, which covers A and B shares, closed down 71.32 points at 2,760.42 on turnover of 41.9 billion yuan (6.1 billion dollars).

The Shanghai A-share Index lost 74.95 points, or 2.52 percent, at 2,895.98 on turnover of 41.8 billion yuan. The Shenzhen A-share Index fell 15.85 points, or 1.90 percent, at 816.07 on turnover of 21.1 billion yuan.

(Agencies)