The women's event started only in 1995 along with 11th edition of men's championship. China led by reigning World Champion Xie Jun proved their superiority among 12 competing teams. Only six teams came to Shenyang in 1999 and China took top two podium places. China completed their triplet taking the win in 2003, edging out Vietnam. There were just four teams in Esfahan in 2005 (including two from Iran) and the rating differences were substantial, surprisingly the competition was one of the closest ever seen. With just two days to go all the teams were within one point. Vietnam took the title winning just one match and drawing five (an absolutely unique achievement); India were second.