China Factors: Political Perspectives and Economic Interactions

Abstract

China Factors offers a first-hand perspective on political and socio-economic changes in Hong Kong after the official changeover to control by China. It reflects the author’s observations, personal encounters, interviews, and experiences, especially after 1997 when the changeover occurred, and also when the Asian financial crisis emerged. The focus here is on the political economy of Greater China (China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong). The author witnessed the subtle political and economic changes in Hong Kong during the period, and the clear and present influence of China on Hong Kong as well as Taiwan. China Factors illustrates the full import of the rise of China, and the impact of political, social, and economic relations around Greater China. Gordon Cheung shows, the key factors for the region are integration, interdependence, identity, and independence—otherwise known as “the four i’s.” Individually, each factor spurs new directions in the ever-changing political economy of that region. Other factors, such as cross- strait relations, and Hong Kong and Macau’s reversion to China, are also creating new interactions within the region. Politically, these China factors challenge traditional bilateral and multilateral relations. Conceptually, they require further investigation, as possible new Chinese interactions with other states may influence regional affairs. Cheung believes the examination of the China factors he identifies here will help to shed light on evolving East Asian relations as well as to spur reexamination of governance of this important region. The book will be of keen interest to specialists in Asian studies, and China in particular, as well as those interested in international affairs and U.S. foreign policy.