Managing construction projects in China - The transitional period in the millennium

Many foreign organisations have had bad experiences in managing construction projects in China, the general impression being that the projects are usually delayed and the budgets over-run. This is due to various factors including government intervention, mis-understanding, different practices and cultural factors. Certainly, it must be conceded that, as elsewhere, there is no problem-free construction project. General information regarding the construction industry in China, including the current situation and management difficulties are presented in this paper to enable an understanding of the challenges to construction management in this transitional period in China. Areas of major importance and suggestions, such as the Ordinances and construction practice are also presented.