With a focus on the experiences of Luogang District, Guangzhou, this study aims to (1) assemble a historical database containing spatial, economic, and social conditions relevant to SCs; (2) identify and evaluate the key factors affecting the profitability of SCs; (3) explain how and why some SCs achieve better economic performance; (4) explain the impact of SCs on the urban transformation of rural villages; (5) provide policy recommendations as to shareholding reforms, the provision of public goods and services as well as community development planning in urbanizing villages.  

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The findings of this study will provide new insights into how SCs have enabled and/or constrained the urban transformation of rural villages. They will enrich a growing body of literature on China’s urbanization which is paying increasing attention to the impact of SCs on transforming the collective land ownership system and reshaping local governance practices. The relevant findings will provide useful insights helping SCs to improve their operation. The findings will also provide concrete evidence for the city government to critically evaluate the impact of its intervention strategies. This will inform policy making towards better social welfare provision for “land-losing” villagers and better community development in urbanizing villages. 

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Acknowledgment

Research findings of this study come from a research grant from The Hong Kong Research Grants Council
https://www.ugc.edu.hk/eng/rgc/index.html

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