Hong Kong as charter city prototype - When concept meets reality

In the proposition of the concept, Hong Kong was often cited as a prototype of charter city. Although Hong Kong may bear close resemblance to that of a charter city, the use of the city as an example raises questions about the larger concept of charter city itself. This standpoint is made from three perspectives. First, a more careful reading of history on the rise of Hong Kong reveals major departures from the charter city model. Second, Hong Kong's success is largely derived from its unique geography and bilateral economic relationship with China, which a charter city cannot hope to emulate. Third, Hong Kong's role in relation to its hinterland does not fully fit the expected impact of a charter city on its surrounding areas when it comes to China's special economic zones. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.