ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the system of land supply and administration, the regulation of development by the planning authorities and the distortion of planning control due to the zealous pursuit of local economic development. It starts by explaining the unique land administration system that determines the supply of land to real estate market. It provides a brief review of China's urban planning system and problems in urban planning in the country. Finally, the chapter argues that the constitutional level should rein in local urban development by controlling the power of local top leaders at the collective choice level. Collectively owned land, mainly for agricultural uses, can be converted into construction land for the purpose of housing members of the collective that own the land, and for accommodating economic activities of the collective. Problems in China's urban planning system can be minimised if constitutional decisions are available to limit the interference of local leaders on the operation of the urban planning system.
