A long list of economic problems await Hong Kong. How they can be fixed

Many in the city question the political will of Hong Kong's government officials to take bold, aggressive action in a range of policy areas

Beyond Hong Kong’s current political turmoil, a long list of economic problems await the city’s current and future rulers.

Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, on Wednesday unveiled more than 220 initiatives in housing, land supply and livelihood support, in a recognition that economic policy has a role to play in alleviating some of the city’s frustrations. She also acknowledged that Hong Kong entered a recession in the third quarter and warned of an “unprecedented” economic challenge.

That’s a start, though observers say the long-standing growth model -- as a low-tax, low-regulation entrepot for finance and trade -- has become