The Intelligence from The Economist Zero to sickly? China’s covid climbdown
Dec 12, 2022
James Miles, a seasoned China writer at large for The Economist, discusses the rapid dismantling of China’s strict COVID-19 measures, predicting a surge in infections and hospital cases as social interactions resume. Alexandra Sewitch Bass, Senior correspondent, highlights a winemaker's lawsuit against Napa County, revealing the regulatory challenges faced by local producers and the impact on California's wine industry. They also explore innovative solutions to protect vulnerable shark populations from fishing bycatch.
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Shifting Narrative on COVID in China
- China's abrupt shift away from zero-COVID reflects a change in narrative.
- The government now claims the Omicron variant poses less risk, justifying relaxed measures.
Rapid Dismantling of Zero-COVID
- China's zero-COVID policy is being dismantled rapidly without a formal announcement.
- This involves removing tracing apps, quarantine centers, mass testing, and lockdowns.
Reasoning Behind Relaxed Restrictions
- The surge in COVID infections is not the reason for relaxing restrictions.
- The government claims the Omicron variant is less dangerous, allowing for relaxation despite rising cases.