Hong Kong: China's Challenge

The return of Hong Kong to China in 1997 has the potential to benefit China's rapidly expanding economy. China's handling of the transition will have enormous implications for China's international standing. This is the first study to analyze the serious problems and real opportunities that the return of the colony poses to China's international status. Examining the relationships between Greater China, Hong Kong and the West,Hong Kong: China's Challengeexplores the challenges that Chinese policy-makers face up to 1997 and beyond. Some of the topics discussed include handling problematic negotiations and dealing with conflicting economic interests. The book concludes by suggesting that a laissez-faire approach to the lucrative Hong Kong markets will ensure that China harnesses the full political and economic benefits of sovereignty over the colony.

Michael Yahuda is Reader in International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London.