制度差异与制度创新: 多元制度互动下的大湾区改革

How can the Greater Bay Area contribute to comprehensively deepening reforms? What impact do the institutional differentiations between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao have in the reform mechanism? These critical issues are still seeking an answer. Based on an “institutional differentiation – tension - institutional innovation” framework proposed on the basis of institutionalism theory, this study examines the institutional reform in construction project management in Qianhai to identify how institutional differences between the mainland and Hong Kong systems propelled changes to the system and practices, initially in Qianhai, and then further beyond. As a free trade zone in Shenzhen and a pilot area for Shenzhen - Hong Kong collaboration, the Qianhai District is an experimental ground for institutional innovations. This article firstly summarizes the dominant logics reflected in construction project management institutions in mainland and Hong Kong systems and then analyses the actors’ behaviors and interactions during the reform process. It is found that the differences between diversified institutions generate tensions in the form of divergence and conflicts in practice, which result in institutional reforms. This article hence suggests that the constitutional principle of “One Country, Two Systems” sustains divergent institutional logics between the mainland and Hong Kong systems, and the tensions among sets of institutional logics drive the processes of institutional reforms by stimulating the actors’ agency in reflecting on existing institutions, envisioning alternative institutions, and mobilizing resources to implement reforms. The contradiction and competition between the two systems have instilled tension which constitutes a source of innovations to drive institutional reforms and social change in the Greater Bay Area.