[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] Reports have emerged that the Chinese leadership is gradually considering easing the 'Zero COVID' policy and resuming economic activities.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 7th (local time), citing sources, that China is reviewing a plan to resume economic activities gradually without a specific timetable. There is also discussion about adjusting the level of quarantine measures by downgrading COVID-19 from an A-level disease to a B-level disease if the World Health Organization (WHO) lifts the COVID-19 public health emergency.
However, the Chinese leadership is mindful that if quarantine regulations are suddenly relaxed amid the continuous emergence of new variants, mortality and hospitalization rates could sharply increase, potentially reducing support for the Communist Party. Accordingly, WSJ reported that reopening will begin gradually depending on the region. Normal levels of economic activity similar to those before the pandemic are expected to be possible only around the end of next year.
WSJ stated, "China is also considering the adverse effects reopening could have on public health and support for the Communist Party," adding, "It will be different from the approach in the West."
Earlier, expectations spread in the global financial markets that COVID-19 restrictions would ease following the confirmation of Xi Jinping's third term as China's president. However, on the 5th, Chinese health authorities reaffirmed the current Zero COVID stance. It is anticipated that regulations on overseas arrivals may be eased soon.
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