Privatizing water supply in Hong Kong

With the exception of the water supply industry, all major utilities in Hong Kong are owned and operated by private enterprises. In terms of price, returns, and productivity, the water supply industry in Hong Kong compares unfavourably with privately-owned utilities. The financial performance of the Water Supplies Department has been deteriorating in recent years. In order to improve the performance of the water supply industry, the Hong Kong Government should consider inviting the private sector to run the industry. Hong Kong can learn from other countries with regard to reforms made in the water supply industry.