Housing policy in transitional China

This chapter examines the evolution of housing policy in transitional China and its impact on housing inequality. It begins by tracing the origins and historical development of the urban–rural dual system associated with household registration and land ownership, which has shaped the (in)equality in housing access and housing wealth. The narrative then shifts to the radical housing commodification reform initiated in 1998, highlighting how it has exacerbated intragenerational and intergenerational housing inequality. Subsequently, the chapter explores the transition of China's housing security system, discussing a variety of national and pilot schemes across the public rental sector and subsidised ownership programmes. The final section addresses urban renewal initiatives and the persistent issue of informal housing in urban villages. This comprehensive review provides insights into the challenges of achieving housing equality and China's policy responses aimed at mitigating housing inequality during the transitional period.