Chinese cities ease covid restrictions
Shenzhen and Shanghai have lifted the requirement for commuters to submit PCR test results, to be able to travel by public transport. Similar steps had previously been taken by the authorities of the cities of Tianjin, Chengdu and Chongqing.
“FT” notes that some Beijing housing estates reported residents over the weekend thatthat if they test positive, they can self-quarantine at home rather than in a centralized facility, significantly easing restrictions.
China’s highest governing body, the Politburo Standing Committee, has not issued an official statement on its stance on the relaxation of restrictions. Still, President Xi Jinping seems to be in the forefront of a policy shift, according to people familiar with the matter.
Beijing has taken a more conservative approach than other cities. Most restaurants and bars are closed, and the 48-hour testing requirement for employees entering office buildings remains. Economists have warned that China’s economy will not see a quick recovery even if officials speed up efforts to open up the country.
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