Microsoft is preparing to launch its next-generation console in China in the next few months, according to industry sources. As part of the process, the company is currently working with the Chinese government to gain approval and will be prepping sales channels shortly.

Preparations have been ongoing since late last year, according to Reuters. The biggest roadblock to the availability of the Xbox 360 within the country would be the government itself. Video games are reviewed by the government before being approved for sale in China.

While no date has been officially set, consumers have reportedly been told to expect systems to arrive next month. Launching the console in China has been a goal of the company since launch. The sheer size of the country and its market potential make it an attractive target.

If it does launch in the country, it would be the first of the next-generation consoles to do so. The PlayStation 2, which launched in the country in 2004, would be the company's biggest competitor. They would also have to overcome the consumers' preference for PC-based gaming.

Worldwide, the company has sold over 10.5 million units, and holds considerable leads over both the Wii and PlayStation 3 consoles.