The Changing Industrial Transformation in the Pearl River Delta: Issues, Challenges, and Intergovernmental Coordination

Abstract

This chapter examines the pattern of industrial development in the nine Pearl River Delta (PRD) cities since the late 1990s. Guangdong province, especially the PRD, has spearheaded economic reform and opening in China and achieved spectacular growth in the past three decades. However, facing challenges from other Chinese regions and global economy, the province has been under pressure to reform its prevailing “front shop, back factory” development model. This chapter will explore the following key questions: Has the pattern of industrial development in the nine PRD cities changed since the late 1990s? If compared with the previous “PRD model” of development, what are the major changes and continuities of this path of industrial development? What are the key policy measures initiated by the provincial and municipal governments in promoting the economic and industrial transformation of the PRD since late 1990s? What are its special features and limitations?