Zhang Leyu
1992, 12(1): 1-8.
The urban functions of Guangzhou and Hong Kong have undergone long-term changes.In ancient China, with the expansion of Central Plains economy and technology towards South China,Guangzhou flourished in economy, 2000 years ahead of Hong Kong.In modern history, however, with western world's economic expansion to the east, Hong Kong became the centre of international trade, shipping, finace,tourism and information,with its urban population and economic power greatly surpassing Guangzhou.From early 1950 s to late 1970 s,Guangzhou was under highly-centralized planned economy and product economic pattern.Then it began to carry our Open-door and Reform policy which has quickened its economic development and consequently strengthened its position and function as the economic centre of South China.Now Guangzhou is playing a pivotal role in both internal and external trade and economic development.The developing tendency of the two cities' urban functions are also discussed in this paper. Firstly,although both Guangzhou and Hong Kong are comprehensive and multi-functional cities,Hong Kong is mainly dealing with countries and districts outside China.Whereas Guangzhou is chiefly connected with South China area. Secondly,compared to Guangzhou,Hong Kong is at a higher developing stage,but both cities would promote their tertiary industry's proportion in the whole industrial structure. Thirdly, on the one hand, Hong Kong enjoys well-developed light industry, advanced management and applied technology,as well as a large capital and widely-spread international marketing channels. On the other hand,it is short of labour force, natural resources and industrial territory, its conditions for developing basic Industry are not as good as those in Guangzhou.With their respective advantages and disadvantages,Hong Kong and GuangZhou should enhance their cooperation, promote their economic prosperity and give an impetus to the economic development of South China.
