Ever since the death of Mao, China has undergone a transformation almost as radical as the Communist Revolution that Mao instigated. This book tells the stories of the many difficult economic, political, and social struggles that have taken place in post-Maoist China. Using both Chinese and non-Chinese sources, Alfred K. Ho unravels the complexities of life in China during the past generation. As Ho explains, contemporary Chinese are seeking to find solutions to their problems that reflect their own cultural values. As such, reform in China cannot be seen solely as an effort to emulate the West, especially the free market and democratic United States. Rather, Ho places current efforts at reform as part of a prolonged and continual process by Chinese to deal with their internal problems as well as the challenges and opportunities they face as a result of greater contact with the outside world.

This work examines the lives of 163 elite immigrants who have achieved the American dream while gaining fortune and fame. With this sample of immigrants, Professor Emeritus Alfred K. Ho provides a portrait of a successful candidate for U.S. immigration. Through his study, he presents detailed analyses of what fields these immigrants have achieved in, why they immigrated, and what they chose to do with their fortunes. Ultimately, Achieving the American Dream is a testament to the American democracy and open society that is the main attraction to these immigrants who are as necessary to the U.S. as we are to them.

In the 1980s, the Communist government in China sought to accelerate economic growth and institute economic reforms by increasing productivity and introducing free enterprises and free markets. Requiring foreign capital, a system for joint ventures was established to allow foreign companies to form partnerships with Chinese firms in a variety of business and production activities. This work examines the legal, business, and practical issues involved in undertaking and maintaining joint ventures in the People's Republic of China, offering guidance on the laws, regulations, and procedures governing such ventures, and the effect of the Tianamen Square incident on these business vehicles.

The work is divided into six chapters, each addressing a different aspect of joint ventures. Chapter 1 places the subject into a historical context, tracing how these ventures emerged as a part of economic reform and what guidelines were established to ensure their value to both participants. Chapter 2 details the methods by which the government translated the ideas and policies into national and local legislation, and lists and explains a few basic statutes. The procedure for establishing a joint venture is fully described in chapter 3, from finding a Chinese firm to sharing the profits and eventually dissolving the partnership. Chapter 4 explores the nature, activities, and success of joint ventures from 1979 to 1987, while Chapter 5 focuses on the Tianamen Square incident and the shift in government policy that followed it. A final chapter provides summary observations on the investment environment in China and the impact of joint ventures on the country's economy. This book will be an essential reference source for courses in international finance and trade, Asian and Chinese studies, and development economics, as well as for finance professionals involved in multinational enterprises. Public and academic libraries will also find it to be a useful addition to their collections.