Convergence of the land tenure systems of China, Hong Kong and Taiwan?

Abstract

The combined economies of China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, referred to collectively as Greater China, are forecast to equal that of the USA by 2002. Land development has played a significant part in this growth in Hong Kong and Taiwan and is doing so increasingly in China as opportunities are taken as a result of land reform. As they continue to converge both economically and politically, the apparent disparity of their land tenure systems may inhibit this process. This paper examines the common roots of their land tenure systems and the divergences which have occurred during the last two centuries. In tracing these roots it focuses on the major evolution during this century when the communists and nationalists split to form the People's Republic of China and the Republic of China respectively whilst Hong Kong continued to be administered by Britain. It identifies the major land tenure reforms which have occured and argues that the apparent differences in land tenure systems are not substantive due to all three systems being founded on a common history and with philosophical developments which are compatible but one in which Britain's position seems somewhat ironic.