China Special Economic Zones in Perspective: A Contextual Discussion with Emphasis on the Shekou Industrial Zone

This Article analyzes the unique role of Special Economic Zones in modem China. The author first discusses the historical background of the zone concept, and the creation of the zones. Next, the author focuses on the Shekou Industrial Zone to demonstrate the practical problems which face foreign corporations wishing to conduct business within a Special Economic zone. Particular emphasis is placed upon the unpredictability of the Chinese legal system, especially the vague and ambiguous statutes which regulate zone activities