From special economic zones to greater special economic region – Hong Kong special administrative region as a model for legal infrastructure design

Abstract

This article examines the key aspects of the legal infrastructure design of special economic zones (SEZs), with reference to the best practice of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (Hong Kong SAR) under “One Country, Two Systems” and the Basic Law. It discusses some recent initiatives of the Hong Kong SAR in respect of innovations in dispute resolution mechanisms and creative use of modern technology to illustrate how SEZs can respond to contemporary challenges and opportunities. In particular, this article discusses the Guangdong–Hong Kong– Macao Greater Bay Area, which sheds light on a new model of collaboration and partnership between SEZs, and explores the possibility and potential for SEZs to serve as the building blocks for the eventual establishment of a new paradigm of greater special economic region.