House prices hamper growth

SHENZHEN - As an immigrant city, Shenzhen once boasted a galaxy of talents, but not now. As a result, it has drawn up new policies to regain its magnetism.

Starting in the mid-1980s there followed a decade or so in which, thanks to its flexible employment system, pioneering working environment, and a higher salary than most other mainland cities, Shenzhen was very attractive to skilled employees.

But as time passed by the city's lure faded. In recent years, many skilled workers have been frightened away by its high housing prices.