The Shenzhen Experiment: The Story of China’s Instant City

The Shenzhen Experiment: The Story of China’s Instant City by Juan Du

Shenzhen seemingly rose up from a small fishing village to a 10 million person city in a few decades. While the actual growth is not quite as extreme as that, it has been a positive example of reforms and special economic zones.

The area now occupied by Shenzhen has had settlements dating back millenia. There were trading towns, farmers and a vibrant shellfish industry. The area was located next to Hong Kong, with many farmers having farms spanning the border between China and Hong Kong. There was significant immigration across the border, especially after the communist revolution. Eventually, the government decided to clamp down and institute strict border crossings.

Deng Xiaoping had encouraged economic reforms in the Shenzhen area. There seemed to be a "Why can't we do it as good as Hong Kong?" mentality involved. Shenzhen was set up as a special economic zone. The local government was given a greater degree of autonomy and freedom to implement and reform economic policy. Business from throughout China and other areas (such as Hong Kong) were encouraged to participate in development. The region was able to put up buildings quickly. Large number of Chinese peoples migrated to Shenzhen (both legally and illegally).

The people already living there responded in various ways. Many converted their homes into "peasant housing" walkup approaching 10 stories high. These areas were often later demolished in favor of "luxury units" - which would allow the long-termers to live there and collect rents. The city had a goal of no slums. However, the "slums" provided a critical housing need for those migrants without official residency status.

The book covers an interesting history. However, the writing could use improvement. It meanders back and forth in time and place and repeats itself. It can be difficult to grasp a complete narrative. Shenzhen did seem to come out of nowhere and achieve great success. It has had some problems. It would be great to have some more detailed analysis.