From Export Center to World City: Planning for the Transformation of Hong Kong

Abstract

This article draws on Hong Kong's experience to illustrate its metropolitan transformation process. We begin by setting out a model of the process, and proceed to show how, since World War II, Hong Kong's public planning and private interests have responded at each stage of the process to meet the needs for facilities and services. We then examine some of the most significant current difficulties that are emerging in planning for the metropolitan transformation of Hong Kong. We conclude by exploring the broader implications of Hong Kong's experience for the territory's future economic development.