Strategies for strengthening cross-border urban planning coordination between Hengqin, Zhuhai, and Macao Special Administrative Region, China

Jing Song Yang, Bin Li and Jing Yang

Public Administration and Policy: An Asia-Pacific Journal, 2025, vol. 28, issue 3, 310-322

Abstract: PurposeThe paper examines the challenges and strategies for cross-border urban planning coordination between Hengqin and Macao, China, under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. By doing so, it aims to enhance regional integration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a qualitative case study approach to analyze the current urban planning systems and practices in Hengqin and Macao, as well as the needs and obstacles associated with cross-border planning coordination. The research data were derived from an examination of national policies, a compilation of data from the National Bureau of Statistics, field research conducted between 2021 and 2024, and an analysis of 14 semi-structured interviews with relevant groups, including urban planners, cross-border commuters, and citizens in both places.FindingsSignificant differences exist in the social, cultural, and institutional systems between Hengqin and Macao, which hinder effective communication and exacerbate disparities in urban planning objectives, priorities, regulations, and technical standards. These challenges have resulted in contradictory planning practices, particularly in transportation and public facilities. Cross-border planning coordination remains in its infancy and requires immediate attention. This study proposes leveraging the “One Country, Two Systems” policy to establish a formal coordination mechanism and foster multi-level, effective communication to address these challenges.Originality/valueThis study explores the cross-border coordination mechanisms between the urban planning systems of Hengqin and Macao, thereby addressing a research gap in cross-border planning coordination under the “One Country, Two Systems” paradigm. It emphasizes the significance of such coordination, a concept that is frequently disregarded in practical applications, and provides pragmatic recommendations for Hengqin.

Keywords: Cross-border planning and coordination; Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin; Urban planning; Macao; Hengqin (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:pappps:pap-07-2024-0117

DOI: 10.1108/PAP-07-2024-0117

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