What is the primary method through which the government controls land in Hong Kong?

The primary method through which the government controls land in Hong Kong is leasing through a bidding process. This unique approach arises from Hong Kong's scarcity of land and the need for efficient urban planning. The government retains ownership of all land and grants leases to private developers or individuals, allowing them to use the land for a specified period—usually 50 years with the possibility of renewal.

By utilizing a bidding process, the government can maximize its revenue and ensure that land is allocated to the most suitable projects. This method also enables the government to strategically control land use according to its development goals and policies. Moreover, it helps address public interests by maintaining oversight over land development and urban planning, which is essential in a densely populated area like Hong Kong.

In contrast, other methods like direct sales to private entities or freehold transactions without restrictions are not characteristic of the Hong Kong land system, as they do not align with the government's overarching strategy of maintaining control over land resources through leasing.