Zhu Haiping and Gao Xinmin
This study analyzes the development of Putonghua proficiency testing products in Hong Kong over the past three decades, focusing on testing product composition, supply entities, and demand drivers. The evolution of these products can be divided into three distinct phases: the early market exploration phase (1988–1997), the policy-led diversification phase (1997–2006), and the market-driven innovation phase (2006–present). The trajectory is marked by a unique “dual-track evolution”—on one hand, collaborative development shaped by market forces, policy interventions, and technological advancements; on the other, the emergence of a tiered development system. Currently this system is dual-tiered, comprising “foundational” and “distinctive” products that align national standards with local characteristics. Looking ahead, further progress can be achieved by advancing to a three-tiered framework: “foundational”, “distinctive”, and “international”. Through differentiated design, the interactions and resource allocations among market, policy, and technology can be dynamically adjusted for each tier. This approach allows testing products to address Putonghua learning and certification needs of various target groups, ultimately integrating foundational popularization, regional adaptability, and international compatibility.