SHANGHAI (AFP) - Chinese shares were slightly lower in morning trade Wednesday on profit-taking amid caution ahead of the release of more economic figures later in the week, dealers said.

The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index fell 0.18 per cent, or 3.74 points, to 2,048.79.

The Shenzhen Composite Index, which tracks stocks on China's second exchange, slid 0.16 per cent, or 1.66 points, to 1,062.22.