ABSTRACT
WTO Accession and Economic Reforms What does accession to the WTO mean for China's social stability? Some Chinese economists seem to believe that WTO accession will be an instrument with which the Chinese leadership can achieve the aims of the reform policies. According to Wang Hongliang, the WTO can help break down 'local protectionism' and other practices that 'violate the laws of the economy', and will 'strengthen competition' by 'creating a united domestic market'.1 The vision of a ruthless and quick-fix application of reform measures, using the WTO as a cudgel, does not bode well for social stability, for it is the local protectionism, the gradual and circumspect achievement of partial goals, and the flexibility that have prevented much social harm from arising during the reforms. Will the WTO be a political lever for impatient reformers faced with obstinate locals who refuse to reform? Or will it kindle a competitive spirit strong enough to demolish the last bastions of the planned economy?
