The Communist Party of China may have softened its zero Covid approach when it comes to restrictions across the country but the politicians continue to emphasise that the decisions taken by President Xi Jinping were completely correct and they will “stand the test of history”.

China was forced to go back on most of its tough COVID-19 restrictions following protests in different parts of the country and the resultant pressure from outside countries to not use force in reply.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-look-beyond-western-sanctions-with-putins-vision-and-shift-in-trade-and-energy-flows-543485">Russians look beyond sanctions with shift in trade and energy flows</a>

The People’s Daily newspaper – the mouthpiece of the Communist Party – had a lengthy defence of the government strategies on its first page and even asked the citizens to keep their trust in the government. It also pointed out the strategies “won precious time” in controlling the infections.

“After three years of efforts, we have the conditions, mechanisms, systems, teams and medicine to lay the foundation for an all-round victory in the fight against the epidemic,” the article said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-carries-major-expansion-in-south-china-sea-says-report-543377">Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank</a>

The government had earlier launched massive attempts at controlling the narrative on social media with special focus on comments posted by users on platforms like WeChat and Weibo.&nbsp; The article also spoke about the “misinformation” and “disinformation” on social media and said that the abrupt shift in the Covid policy has made it difficult for the country to find proper footing.

“With the weakening of the pathogenicity of Omicron variant, widespread vaccination, and the accumulation of experience in prevention and control, we have formulated 20 optimization measures and 10 new optimization measures in a timely manner to minimize the impact of the epidemic on socioeconomic development,” the article explained according to Bloomberg.

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The Communist Party of China may have softened its zero Covid approach when it comes to restrictions across the country but the politicians continue to emphasise that the decisions taken by President Xi Jinping were completely correct and they will “stand the test of history”.

The Communist Party of China may have softened its zero Covid approach when it comes to restrictions across the country but the politicians continue to emphasise that the decisions taken by President Xi Jinping were completely correct and they will “stand the test of history”. China was forced to go back on most of its tough COVID-19 restrictions following protests in different parts of the country and the resultant pressure from outside countries to not use force in reply. Also read | Russians look beyond sanctions with shift in trade and energy flows The People’s Daily newspaper – the mouthpiece of the Communist Party – had a lengthy defence of the government strategies on its first page and even asked the citizens to keep their trust in the government. It also pointed out the strategies “won precious time” in controlling the infections. “After three years of efforts, we have the conditions, mechanisms, systems, teams and medicine to lay the foundation for an all-round victory in the fight against the epidemic,” the article said. Also read | Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank The government had earlier launched massive attempts at controlling the narrative on social media with special focus on comments posted by users on platforms like WeChat and Weibo. The article also spoke about the “misinformation” and “disinformation” on social media and said that the abrupt shift in the Covid policy has made it difficult for the country to find proper footing. “With the weakening of the pathogenicity of Omicron variant, widespread vaccination, and the accumulation of experience in prevention and control, we have formulated 20 optimization measures and 10 new optimization measures in a timely manner to minimize the impact of the epidemic on socioeconomic development,” the article explained according to Bloomberg.

'Xi Jinping was right': Chinese politicians and media justify tough Covid rules

China is facing a very tough time as it dismantles its rigid "zero-COVID" policy and allows people to live with the virus, posing challenges preparing hospitals and ensuring people are sufficiently protected, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said.

China faces 'tough' Zero-Covid exit, says WHO

As China moves towards living with Covid and loosens up its strict Zero-covid regulations, Beijing has witnessed a sudden and dramatic explosion in its daily coronavirus numbers.

The city has reported a significant uptick in the spread of the SARS-CoV-2-causing COVID-19 virus infection, which as per CNN is a first since the pandemic began.

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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Across China, and especially ‌in Beijing empty streets, and deserted shopping centres have become the new normal as people stay at home to avoid being infected.

CNN reports that in the upmarket shopping district Sanlitun the usually bustling shops and restaurants were without customers and in some cases getting by via their takeout services and working with skeleton crews.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-impossible-to-accurately-grasp-the-actual-number-of-covid-infected-people-542857">China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people</a>

The only crowds are in and around pharmacies. As per Reuters, the city's residents are clamouring to stock up on medicines. The demand for medicines has undergone a sudden spike as people worry about the risk of infection.

On Wednesday, China reported 2,000 new symptomatic COVID-19 infections, on Tuesday this number stood at 2,291. However, given the absence of mass testing official figures have become an unreliable guide.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-says-covid-19-wont-be-a-public-emergency-in-2023-seeking-information-on-virus-origins-from-china-543144">WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China</a>

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China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect the reality and that it was impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing". The agency further said that due to this it will stop reporting new asymptomatic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As China moves towards living with Covid and loosens up its strict Zero-covid regulations, Beijing has witnessed a sudden and dramatic explosion in its daily coronavirus numbers.

As China moves towards living with Covid and loosens up its strict Zero-covid regulations, Beijing has witnessed a sudden and dramatic explosion in its daily coronavirus numbers. The city has reported a significant uptick in the spread of the SARS-CoV-2-causing COVID-19 virus infection, which as per CNN is a first since the pandemic began. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy Across China, and especially ‌in Beijing empty streets, and deserted shopping centres have become the new normal as people stay at home to avoid being infected. CNN reports that in the upmarket shopping district Sanlitun the usually bustling shops and restaurants were without customers and in some cases getting by via their takeout services and working with skeleton crews. Also read | China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people The only crowds are in and around pharmacies. As per Reuters, the city's residents are clamouring to stock up on medicines. The demand for medicines has undergone a sudden spike as people worry about the risk of infection. On Wednesday, China reported 2,000 new symptomatic COVID-19 infections, on Tuesday this number stood at 2,291. However, given the absence of mass testing official figures have become an unreliable guide. Also read | WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect the reality and that it was impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing". The agency further said that due to this it will stop reporting new asymptomatic COVID-19 infections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Streets deserted, pharmacies overcrowded as Beijing battles a sudden surge in Covid cases

As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said "we have come a long way", and the death toll from Covid is now a fifth of what it was a year ago. However, he added that even that is too much.

"Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their lives. That's still 10,000 too many and there is still a lot that all countries can do to save lives," he said, adding, "we are hopeful that at some point next year, we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency."

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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As per AFP Tedros said that as the world looks to living with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> and as nations look to learn to manage it alongside other respiratory illnesses, it is important to know more about the coronavirus's origins and understand how the pandemic began.

"We continue to call on China to share the data and conduct the studies that we have requested, to better understand the origins of this virus," said Tedros.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-impossible-to-accurately-grasp-the-actual-number-of-covid-infected-people-542857">China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people</a>

The first cases of this deadly virus were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As per Tedros "all hypotheses remain on the table" including the one that alleges that the virus may have escaped from Wuhan's virology laboratories.

A meeting of the WHO emergency committee that advises Tedros on whether a virus constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) will discuss the criteria for ending the coronavirus emergency phase.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-focuses-on-economic-stability-in-2023-traditional-medicine-expert-endorses-changing-covids-name-540754">In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert</a>

The WHO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>&nbsp; technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove said that while waves of infection are still expected "it is not what it was in the beginning". The upcoming January committee meeting will look at COVID-19 and its subvariants along with their epidemiology.

As per Van Kerkhove now the deaths are mainly among unvaccinated people or those who are missing a full course of the life-saving vaccines.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year.

As the third anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic approaches, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday said that it hoped that the virus would no longer be a public health emergency next year. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said "we have come a long way", and the death toll from Covid is now a fifth of what it was a year ago. However, he added that even that is too much. "Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their lives. That's still 10,000 too many and there is still a lot that all countries can do to save lives," he said, adding, "we are hopeful that at some point next year, we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer a global health emergency." Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy As per AFP Tedros said that as the world looks to living with Covid and as nations look to learn to manage it alongside other respiratory illnesses, it is important to know more about the coronavirus's origins and understand how the pandemic began. "We continue to call on China to share the data and conduct the studies that we have requested, to better understand the origins of this virus," said Tedros. Also read | China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people The first cases of this deadly virus were identified in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As per Tedros "all hypotheses remain on the table" including the one that alleges that the virus may have escaped from Wuhan's virology laboratories. A meeting of the WHO emergency committee that advises Tedros on whether a virus constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) will discuss the criteria for ending the coronavirus emergency phase. Also read | In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert The WHO COVID-19 technical lead, Maria Van Kerkhove said that while waves of infection are still expected "it is not what it was in the beginning". The upcoming January committee meeting will look at COVID-19 and its subvariants along with their epidemiology. As per Van Kerkhove now the deaths are mainly among unvaccinated people or those who are missing a full course of the life-saving vaccines. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO hopes Covid-19 won't be a public emergency in 2023, says seeking information on virus origins from China

Days after China eased its Covid restrictions, Beijing now says it is impossible to track the true scale of infections in the country. Officials have warned of new cases in Beijing after abruptly scaling down its zero-Covid policy.

China scales down on Covid restrictions amid concerns of surge

Just days after abruptly dropping its strict zero-Covid restriction China says that it is now impossible to track the true scale of Covid-19 infections in the country.

This comes as officials warn of a rapid uptake in Beijing's coronavirus cases. After nearly three years of stringent regulations that prompted rare widespread protests in the country, China recently loosened its quarantine and mass testing policies.

With extensive mass testing no longer a requirement for most of the country, China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect reality.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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In a statement, the NHC said that it is impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing."

Recently, Vice Premier Sun Chunlan too said that the capital Beijing's new COvid infections are "rapidly growing".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-very-likely-to-downgrade-growth-forcast-for-china-542825">IMF 'very likely' to downgrade growth forecast for China</a>

Faced with the rare display of public anger, and an economy that is suffering officials are determined to push ahead with the opening up of the country. On Tuesday Beijing's tourism authorities said that it would resume tour groups in and out of the capital.

The country is ill-equipped to face the surge, millions of elderly remain vulnerable, still not fully vaccinated. The sudden influx of patients can also handicap underfunded hospitals that lack resources.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-as-china-recalibrates-its-covid-19-response-strategy-celebs-share-their-infection-experiences-542736">As China recalibrates its COVID-19 response strategy, celebs share their infection experiences</a>

With people opting to self-medicate at home, as per AFP, residents have also reported facing a shortage of cold medicines and long lines at pharmacies.&nbsp;Soaring demand for at-home covid tests or rapid antigen tests and medicines has also given birth to a black market with astronomical prices.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Just days after abruptly dropping its strict zero-Covid restriction China says that it is now impossible to track the true scale of Covid-19 infections in the country.

Just days after abruptly dropping its strict zero-Covid restriction China says that it is now impossible to track the true scale of Covid-19 infections in the country. This comes as officials warn of a rapid uptake in Beijing's coronavirus cases. After nearly three years of stringent regulations that prompted rare widespread protests in the country, China recently loosened its quarantine and mass testing policies. With extensive mass testing no longer a requirement for most of the country, China's Health Commission on Wednesday admitted that the numbers no longer reflect reality. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy In a statement, the NHC said that it is impossible to "accurately grasp" the actual number of infected people as "many asymptomatic people are no longer participating in nucleic acid testing." Recently, Vice Premier Sun Chunlan too said that the capital Beijing's new COvid infections are "rapidly growing". Also read | IMF 'very likely' to downgrade growth forecast for China Faced with the rare display of public anger, and an economy that is suffering officials are determined to push ahead with the opening up of the country. On Tuesday Beijing's tourism authorities said that it would resume tour groups in and out of the capital. The country is ill-equipped to face the surge, millions of elderly remain vulnerable, still not fully vaccinated. The sudden influx of patients can also handicap underfunded hospitals that lack resources. Also read | As China recalibrates its COVID-19 response strategy, celebs share their infection experiences With people opting to self-medicate at home, as per AFP, residents have also reported facing a shortage of cold medicines and long lines at pharmacies. Soaring demand for at-home covid tests or rapid antigen tests and medicines has also given birth to a black market with astronomical prices. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China says impossible to 'accurately grasp' the actual number of Covid infected people

International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Tuesday (December 13) that the international body is 'very likely' to downgrade China's growth forecast for this year and the next, reported AFP. Her comments have come as China faces increasing number of Covid cases as it eases restrictions after nearly three years.

China has begun easing Covid restrictions after enforcing its strict 'Zero-Covid policy' which had battered its economy in the firsr place. Now, the rising infections due to easing of restrictions " is going to create some difficulties over the next months" as well, Georgieva said.

"But it is likely that as China overcomes this in the second half of the year, there could be some improvement in growth prospects," she said.

The zero-Covid policy, characterized by snap lockdowns, international travel restrictions and mass testing, took a heavy toll on consumers and businesses, with demonstrations against the measures eventually erupting in major Chinese cities.

The IMF earlier warned that tough virus restrictions have been especially hard on China's residents.

In October this year, the IMF cut its growth projection for China to 3.2 per cent. This is the lowest growth forecast in decades. It is expected that growth will rise to 4.4 per cent next year.

But "very likely, we will be downgrading our growth projections for China, both for 2022 and for 2023," Georgieva said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Tuesday (December 13) that the international body is 'very likely' to downgrade China's growth forecast for this year and the next, reported AFP.

International Monetary Fund (IMF) chief Kristalina Georgieva said on Tuesday (December 13) that the international body is 'very likely' to downgrade China's growth forecast for this year and the next, reported AFP. Her comments have come as China faces increasing number of Covid cases as it eases restrictions after nearly three years. China has begun easing Covid restrictions after enforcing its strict 'Zero-Covid policy' which had battered its economy in the firsr place. Now, the rising infections due to easing of restrictions " is going to create some difficulties over the next months" as well, Georgieva said. "But it is likely that as China overcomes this in the second half of the year, there could be some improvement in growth prospects," she said. The zero-Covid policy, characterized by snap lockdowns, international travel restrictions and mass testing, took a heavy toll on consumers and businesses, with demonstrations against the measures eventually erupting in major Chinese cities. The IMF earlier warned that tough virus restrictions have been especially hard on China's residents. In October this year, the IMF cut its growth projection for China to 3.2 per cent. This is the lowest growth forecast in decades. It is expected that growth will rise to 4.4 per cent next year. But "very likely, we will be downgrading our growth projections for China, both for 2022 and for 2023," Georgieva said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

IMF 'very likely' to downgrade growth forecast for China

Hong Kong has announced the lifting of its "amber code" which means that it will no longer require its residents to use its "LeaveHomeSafe" app to enter venues.

Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime will also be taken away. Under&nbsp;this&nbsp;travellers were given an amber code on Hong Kong's&nbsp;app, which restricted their movement and they had to undergo a three-day medical surveillance period.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

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Instead, the city will now adopt a "0+0" arrangement, visitors will be allotted a blue code that does not restrict their movement.

On Tuesday, the city announced that the programme which has long been a key source of frustration for travellers who had been subjected to curbs the first three days of their visit will be stopped. &nbsp;

Announcing the new measures Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that residents will no longer have to scan QR codes with the app to record visits to different premises.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hotels-charging-covid-positive-guests-hundreds-of-dollars-in-cleaning-fee-540560">Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'</a>

However, as per the South China Morning Post (SCMP), they will still need to present their Covid vaccination proof at restaurants etc. Mask mandates, indoors and outdoors too will continue, as will the ban on public gatherings of more than 12 people.

Talkin to reporters he said, "We have made these two decisions because we have considered the data and the risks."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-focuses-on-economic-stability-in-2023-traditional-medicine-expert-endorses-changing-covids-name-540754">In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert</a>

As per AFP, the new measures will come into effect on Wednesday and further details will be announced later in the day by the city's health department.

The change comes after a similar move in mainland China and at a time when the city's businesses face the battering of a recession-mired economy after two years of self-imposed isolation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hong Kong has announced the lifting of its "amber code" which means that it will no longer require its residents to use its "LeaveHomeSafe" app to enter venues. Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime will also be taken away.

Hong Kong has announced the lifting of its "amber code" which means that it will no longer require its residents to use its "LeaveHomeSafe" app to enter venues. Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime will also be taken away. Under this travellers were given an amber code on Hong Kong's app, which restricted their movement and they had to undergo a three-day medical surveillance period. Watch | Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion? Instead, the city will now adopt a "0+0" arrangement, visitors will be allotted a blue code that does not restrict their movement. On Tuesday, the city announced that the programme which has long been a key source of frustration for travellers who had been subjected to curbs the first three days of their visit will be stopped. Announcing the new measures Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that residents will no longer have to scan QR codes with the app to record visits to different premises. Also read | Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee' However, as per the South China Morning Post (SCMP), they will still need to present their Covid vaccination proof at restaurants etc. Mask mandates, indoors and outdoors too will continue, as will the ban on public gatherings of more than 12 people. Talkin to reporters he said, "We have made these two decisions because we have considered the data and the risks." Also read | In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert As per AFP, the new measures will come into effect on Wednesday and further details will be announced later in the day by the city's health department. The change comes after a similar move in mainland China and at a time when the city's businesses face the battering of a recession-mired economy after two years of self-imposed isolation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong takes away much-criticised Covid restrictions

The country is ramping up ICU beds, and building new hospitals, as it relaxes covid measures and drops mandatory quarantine. What explains these contradictory measures? @MollyGambhir tells you

Gravitas: What explains China's Covid confusion?

Covid cases are surging in the Chinese capital of Beijing, this comes as the country tries to turn away from its zero-tolerance coronavirus strategy. Beijing authorities said, more than 22,000 patients visited hospitals across the city in the previous days.

Covid cases surge in China as hardline policy eases

Hong Kong scraps some its last Covid-19 restrictions that have crushed the city’s economy and undermined its status as a financial hub. Additionally, the much criticised "0+3" regime has also be taken away.

Hong Kong scraps Covid restrictions for arriving travellers

China on Monday said that a major application used for tracking COVID-19 contacts will retire, a major move in the rapid turn away from its zero-tolerance Covid strategy.

Trending on WION: China retires application that tracks COVID contacts

China retires Covid tracking app as part of easing virus rules

China said Monday it would retire an app used to track travel to areas with Covid-19 cases, a milestone in the country's rapid turn away from its zero-tolerance coronavirus strategy.

China retires major Covid tracking app as virus rules ease

China is slowly easing out its way out of the zero-Covid policy. Residents are now partially free from the curbs that hampered their day-to-day movement for months but in the wake of a new wave of infections, cities in China still bear a very deserted look.

China relaxes Zero-Covid policy, halts Covid test for domestic carriers

China's Covid heroes have now become the country's ultimate villains. The men and women in White began their journey as the saviours of the ordinary people in the Pandemic-hit country but the outburst against the curbs changed the way people looked at them.

No more jobs for China's Covid Army? China lifts curbs, 'Big Whites' left jobless

the Chinese government is looking at gradually opening up the economy. Even with the recent spike in case, curbs are being gradually eased but things are apparently not easy for the millions of Chinese after living under strict Covid-19 regulations for nearly three years.

China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

About 64.4 million surgical facemasks and 3.7 million plastic aprons worth 31.8 million USD (£26 million) paid for by British citizens are now being sold for as little as $612 (£500) in an online auction.

The Covid-related personal protective equipment (PPE) was reportedly ordered during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic but never even left China as they were deemed surplus to the requirements.

However, these recently auctioned PPE kits are only the tip of the iceberg. The Department for Health and Social Care as per DailyMail has admitted to incurring losses of ($10.1 billion) £8.7 billion due to PPE that was not fit for use, expired or overpriced.

Watch |&nbsp;China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy

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As per National Audit Office estimates the facemasks would have cost taxpayers about 40p each at the time of the epidemic, bringing the price of those auctioned to £25.8 million.

The aprons cost 5p each, therefore their overall price came to roughly $20,000 (£180,000).

While their auction price isn't known, as per DailyMail, the auction organised by UK-based disposal firm Ramco the items were sold in two lots priced at around $306 (£250).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-uk-braces-for-a-strike-full-winter-rcn-offers-to-suspend-strikes-if-govt-agrees-to-negotiate-541957">As UK braces for a 'strike-full' winter, RCN offers to suspend strikes if govt agrees to negotiate</a>

Reportedly the UK decided to get rid of the stock as it was costing too much to store it. Last year the country spent $28.1 million (£23 million) on storage.

As Wes Streeting, Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary puts it "The Government is spending more on storing PPE in China each week than Manchester United pay for Cristiano Ronaldo’s wages."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kwasi-kwarteng-admits-that-he-and-liz-truss-got-carried-away-with-uks-mini-budget-541927">Kwasi Kwarteng admits that he and Liz Truss ‘got carried away’ with UK’s mini-budget</a>

Earlier this year, UK officials disclosed that 580 lorry tonnes of obsolete PPE were being burnt each month.

According to a representative for the health department, in order to maintain taxpayer value for money, "We continue to sell, donate, repurpose and recycle excess PPE in the most cost-effective way, as well as seeking to recover costs from suppliers wherever possible."

"We are also exploring innovative solutions to reprocess excess PPE into materials or new products that have further uses," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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About 64.4 million surgical facemasks and 3.7 million plastic aprons worth 31.8 million USD (£26 million) paid for by British citizens are now being sold for as little as $612 (£500) in an online auction.

About 64.4 million surgical facemasks and 3.7 million plastic aprons worth 31.8 million USD (£26 million) paid for by British citizens are now being sold for as little as $612 (£500) in an online auction. The Covid-related personal protective equipment (PPE) was reportedly ordered during the peak of the coronavirus pandemic but never even left China as they were deemed surplus to the requirements. However, these recently auctioned PPE kits are only the tip of the iceberg. The Department for Health and Social Care as per DailyMail has admitted to incurring losses of ($10.1 billion) £8.7 billion due to PPE that was not fit for use, expired or overpriced. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy As per National Audit Office estimates the facemasks would have cost taxpayers about 40p each at the time of the epidemic, bringing the price of those auctioned to £25.8 million. The aprons cost 5p each, therefore their overall price came to roughly $20,000 (£180,000). While their auction price isn't known, as per DailyMail, the auction organised by UK-based disposal firm Ramco the items were sold in two lots priced at around $306 (£250). Also read | As UK braces for a 'strike-full' winter, RCN offers to suspend strikes if govt agrees to negotiate Reportedly the UK decided to get rid of the stock as it was costing too much to store it. Last year the country spent $28.1 million (£23 million) on storage. As Wes Streeting, Labour’s Shadow Health Secretary puts it "The Government is spending more on storing PPE in China each week than Manchester United pay for Cristiano Ronaldo’s wages." Also read | Kwasi Kwarteng admits that he and Liz Truss ‘got carried away’ with UK’s mini-budget Earlier this year, UK officials disclosed that 580 lorry tonnes of obsolete PPE were being burnt each month. According to a representative for the health department, in order to maintain taxpayer value for money, "We continue to sell, donate, repurpose and recycle excess PPE in the most cost-effective way, as well as seeking to recover costs from suppliers wherever possible." "We are also exploring innovative solutions to reprocess excess PPE into materials or new products that have further uses," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK's Covid wastage: Country auctions off PPE kits worth $31.8 million for $600

The Chinese government decided to loosen its strict COVID-19 restrictions under the Zero Covid policy and the decision was lauded by global economic leaders on Friday. Both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) welcomed the change in stance and said that the lifting of restrictions will help the country and the global economy in the long run.

"We welcome very much the decisive actions taken by the Chinese authorities... to recalibrate the Covid policies so as to create a better impetus for the revival of growth in China," Kristalina Georgieva, the IMF chief, said at a press briefing according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-lawmakers-hail-bout-griner-prisoner-swap-as-putins-win-state-media-541528">Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner prisoner swap as Putin's 'win'</a>

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the global economy as well as the supply chain suffered major setbacks. With China – one of the biggest economies in the world – also shutting down manufacturing units due to the rise of Covid cases, there was a dearth of stimulus to the global economy and wealth.

However, after the nationwide protests against the restrictions, the authorities in China relented and allowed people to isolate at home. It further said that people did not need negative test results for free movement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-forces-targeting-protesting-womens-faces-and-genitalia-say-medics-541484">Iranian forces targeting protesting women's faces and genitalia, say medics</a>

The effort to boost vaccination rates and anti-viral treatments "is very good for the Chinese people, but also important for Asia and the rest of the world", Georgieva added at the briefing.

"China's performance matters (not just) to China -- it matters to the world economy as well."

Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Mathias Cormann, also hailed the impact that the lifting of restrictions will have on the economy.

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The Chinese government decided to loosen its strict COVID-19 restrictions under the Zero Covid policy and the decision was lauded by global economic leaders on Friday.

The Chinese government decided to loosen its strict COVID-19 restrictions under the Zero Covid policy and the decision was lauded by global economic leaders on Friday. Both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) welcomed the change in stance and said that the lifting of restrictions will help the country and the global economy in the long run. "We welcome very much the decisive actions taken by the Chinese authorities... to recalibrate the Covid policies so as to create a better impetus for the revival of growth in China," Kristalina Georgieva, the IMF chief, said at a press briefing according to Reuters. Also read | Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner prisoner swap as Putin's 'win' Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the global economy as well as the supply chain suffered major setbacks. With China – one of the biggest economies in the world – also shutting down manufacturing units due to the rise of Covid cases, there was a dearth of stimulus to the global economy and wealth. However, after the nationwide protests against the restrictions, the authorities in China relented and allowed people to isolate at home. It further said that people did not need negative test results for free movement. Also read | Iranian forces targeting protesting women's faces and genitalia, say medics The effort to boost vaccination rates and anti-viral treatments "is very good for the Chinese people, but also important for Asia and the rest of the world", Georgieva added at the briefing. "China's performance matters (not just) to China -- it matters to the world economy as well." Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Mathias Cormann, also hailed the impact that the lifting of restrictions will have on the economy.

Global economic chiefs hail China’s decision of relaxing COVID-19 restrictions

Thousands of people in China flocked to the hero doctor's social media page&nbsp;to break the news to him. They opened up to him as though they were at the graveside of a family member.

<blockquote>
"On the train, I suddenly remembered you and burst into tears. Dr Li, it's over now, it's dawn. Thank you," said one.
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Another wrote: "I've come to see you and let you know - the dust has settled. We're reopening."
</blockquote>

In Wuhan, a city in central China where the first instance of the novel coronavirus was discovered at the end of 2019, Dr&nbsp;Li Wenliang, a 33-year-old ophthalmologist, was one of the first to raise the alarm.&nbsp;He was penalised by Chinese authorities for making "false statements," and ultimately while fighting for patients, he himself succumbed&nbsp;to Covid. What followed was public grief and rage after his passing.&nbsp;

Next in line was Jinping's initiative to entirely eradicate the virus in China—Zero-Covid.&nbsp; Despite overcrowded hospitals elsewhere, leaders celebrated it as a victory. But as time went on and restrictions persisted while other nations reopened after successful vaccination campaigns, it turned into a nightmare.

Dr&nbsp;Li's page thus evolved into a "wailing wall" for worn-out, dejected people to contemplate after Wednesday's declaration that many of China's policy's most oppressive elements were being eliminated, as reported by the BBC.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-saudi-visit-china-saudi-arabia-sign-34-agreements-worth-30-billion-541177">Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion</a>

People expressed relief and hope as well as pain and loss from Guangdong in the south to Yunnan and Sichuan in the further west.

Also Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | China and Saudi Arabia expand ties

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The zero-Covid policy in China helped to keep mortality rates low. Approximately 5,200 pandemic-related deaths have been officially registered in the nation, compared to nearly a million in the US. However, zero-Covid also unleashed&nbsp;painful costs in other ways. There were unexpected lockdowns during which some people had trouble getting enough food. People with Covid were forced into centralised quarantine and separated from their families. There were restrictions on movement and gatherings. The economy suffered.

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Thousands of people in China flocked to the hero doctor's social media page to break the news to him. They opened up to him as though they were at the graveside of a family member.

Thousands of people in China flocked to the hero doctor's social media page to break the news to him. They opened up to him as though they were at the graveside of a family member. "On the train, I suddenly remembered you and burst into tears. Dr Li, it's over now, it's dawn. Thank you," said one. Another wrote: "I've come to see you and let you know - the dust has settled. We're reopening." In Wuhan, a city in central China where the first instance of the novel coronavirus was discovered at the end of 2019, Dr Li Wenliang, a 33-year-old ophthalmologist, was one of the first to raise the alarm. He was penalised by Chinese authorities for making "false statements," and ultimately while fighting for patients, he himself succumbed to Covid. What followed was public grief and rage after his passing. Next in line was Jinping's initiative to entirely eradicate the virus in China—Zero-Covid. Despite overcrowded hospitals elsewhere, leaders celebrated it as a victory. But as time went on and restrictions persisted while other nations reopened after successful vaccination campaigns, it turned into a nightmare. Dr Li's page thus evolved into a "wailing wall" for worn-out, dejected people to contemplate after Wednesday's declaration that many of China's policy's most oppressive elements were being eliminated, as reported by the BBC. Also read | Xi meets MBS as China-Saudi Arabia sign 34 agreements worth $30 billion People expressed relief and hope as well as pain and loss from Guangdong in the south to Yunnan and Sichuan in the further west. Also Watch | WION Fineprint | China and Saudi Arabia expand ties The zero-Covid policy in China helped to keep mortality rates low. Approximately 5,200 pandemic-related deaths have been officially registered in the nation, compared to nearly a million in the US. However, zero-Covid also unleashed painful costs in other ways. There were unexpected lockdowns during which some people had trouble getting enough food. People with Covid were forced into centralised quarantine and separated from their families. There were restrictions on movement and gatherings. The economy suffered. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Li Wenliang: People pay tribute to 'hero' doctor as China eases strict Covid restrictions

As the world's second-largest economy suffers through a broad slowdown and a spike in Covid cases, a high-level meeting of China's Communist party concluded that the nation should optimise epidemic prevention and control measures next year.&nbsp;

This comes as a leading authority on traditional Chinese medicine recommended that the nation change the official name for COVID-19 to reflect the virus's mutation.

Speaking to the state-run Beijing daily, Gu Xiaohong said that the name which identifies the infectious virus as a pneumonia-causing disease should be changed to call it an infectious virus.

Watch |&nbsp;China: New Covid-19 infections hit record highs in November

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As per Xiaohong, the infectious disease arm of the China Association of Chinese Medicine has reached a consensus on how the Covid virus is described and on China's approach to it.

For the last two-plus years, China has emphasised mass testing, stringent lockdowns and quarantining of positive cases in special facilities. However, the new approach suggests that instead of "passive detection", China should focus on " active prevention", letting patients with light symptoms recuperate at home.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-readies-itself-for-life-again-as-authorities-drop-some-covid-19-tests-540618">Beijing ‘readies itself for life again’ as authorities drop some COVID-19 tests</a>

The high-level meeting of China's ruling party also concluded that in 2023, China must better coordinate epidemic policies with economic and social development.

As per Xinhua news agency's report, in 2023, the nation will focus on stabilising growth, employment and prices, even as it works towards preventing systemic risks.&nbsp;

Beijing said that it continue to implement active fiscal policy and prudent monetary policy next year while making efforts to expand domestic demand.&nbsp;The meeting also emphasised the importance of promoting high-level openings to the outside world and attracting and utilising foreign capital.

Three years into the pandemic, China seems to be headed towards normalcy. AFP reports that authorities have begun loosening the world's toughest COVID-19 curbs.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-hotels-charging-covid-positive-guests-hundreds-of-dollars-in-cleaning-fee-540560">Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'</a>

State-run news agency Xinhua too on Monday, as per Reuters cited the weakening pathogenicity of COVID-19 and the vaccination efforts, commenting that the "most difficult time has passed".

On Tuesday China reported 25,321 cases, some 3,000 less than the 28,062 reported on Monday. No deaths were reported. The number of overall cases seems to be dropping.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the world's second-largest economy suffers through a broad slowdown and a spike in Covid cases, a high-level meeting of China's Communist party concluded that the nation should optimise epidemic prevention and control measures next year.

As the world's second-largest economy suffers through a broad slowdown and a spike in Covid cases, a high-level meeting of China's Communist party concluded that the nation should optimise epidemic prevention and control measures next year. This comes as a leading authority on traditional Chinese medicine recommended that the nation change the official name for COVID-19 to reflect the virus's mutation. Speaking to the state-run Beijing daily, Gu Xiaohong said that the name which identifies the infectious virus as a pneumonia-causing disease should be changed to call it an infectious virus. Watch | China: New Covid-19 infections hit record highs in November As per Xiaohong, the infectious disease arm of the China Association of Chinese Medicine has reached a consensus on how the Covid virus is described and on China's approach to it. For the last two-plus years, China has emphasised mass testing, stringent lockdowns and quarantining of positive cases in special facilities. However, the new approach suggests that instead of "passive detection", China should focus on " active prevention", letting patients with light symptoms recuperate at home. Also read | Beijing ‘readies itself for life again’ as authorities drop some COVID-19 tests The high-level meeting of China's ruling party also concluded that in 2023, China must better coordinate epidemic policies with economic and social development. As per Xinhua news agency's report, in 2023, the nation will focus on stabilising growth, employment and prices, even as it works towards preventing systemic risks. Beijing said that it continue to implement active fiscal policy and prudent monetary policy next year while making efforts to expand domestic demand. The meeting also emphasised the importance of promoting high-level openings to the outside world and attracting and utilising foreign capital. Three years into the pandemic, China seems to be headed towards normalcy. AFP reports that authorities have begun loosening the world's toughest COVID-19 curbs. Also read | Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee' State-run news agency Xinhua too on Monday, as per Reuters cited the weakening pathogenicity of COVID-19 and the vaccination efforts, commenting that the "most difficult time has passed". On Tuesday China reported 25,321 cases, some 3,000 less than the 28,062 reported on Monday. No deaths were reported. The number of overall cases seems to be dropping. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In view of mutations, Covid should be renamed, says Chinese medicine expert

An epidemiologist who claims to have worked closely with the Wuhan lab says Covid-19 was made in the facility. This scientist says U.S. helped China make the coronavirus, and handed the Chinese 'bioweapon technology'.

Gravitas: Did the US help China cover up Covid-19 outbreak?

China's exports and imports shrank at their steepest pace in November. COVID-led production disruptions and a property slumped at home piled pressure on the world's second-biggest economy.

Andrew Freris, CEO of Ecognosis Advisory opens up on falling trade surplus of China

After series of mass protests, COVID-19 curbs are being relaxed in few parts of China. Businesses were reopened and testing requirements were also eased.

China eases zero Covid curbs after mass protests

A Mega Corruption scandal has hit the Tories. Tory Peer Michelle Mone has been accused of lobbying for a PPE firm & profiting from the sale of masks at double prices. Priyanka Sharma reports.

Gravitas |  Michelle Mone: The baroness who made millions during the pandemic

Though they detest strict Covid curbs, the Chinese aren't too keen to travel abroad even if the curb ease, says a study. More than half of those who were surveyed gave a thumb-down to overseas travel. The result of the study is being seen as a sign that consumer recovery from Covid measures in China will take time.

Mainland China retains some of the world's most stringent measures on PCR testing and quarantine for international travellers, despite some domestic easing of curbs after last month's unprecedented Covid protests.

The respondents to the survey, most of those who wanted to postpone the travel abroad, said that they were fearful of getting infected. This was the top concern. Worries about changes to domestic re-entry guidelines were in second place.

The sample size of the survey was 4000.

"People have become cautious," said Imke Wouters, a retail and consumer goods partner at the firm. "So even when they can travel, we don't think they will come back right away."

As many as 51% of those surveyed plan to delay international travel. And when they do, short-haul destinations will be the first to benefit, the consultancy said in its study, "China Consumption Recovery".

The Asian financial hub of Hong Kong topped wishlists for travel, with 34% of respondents saying it would be their first stop after the re-opening.

The survey, in late October, followed the 20th Congress of the ruling Communist Party in Beijing, which brought President Xi Jinping a precedent-breaking third term as leader, at an event many had hoped would herald an opening-up after Covid.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Though they detest strict Covid curbs, the Chinese aren't too keen to travel abroad even if the curb ease, says a study. More than half of those who were surveyed gave a thumb-down to overseas travel.

Though they detest strict Covid curbs, the Chinese aren't too keen to travel abroad even if the curb ease, says a study. More than half of those who were surveyed gave a thumb-down to overseas travel. The result of the study is being seen as a sign that consumer recovery from Covid measures in China will take time. Mainland China retains some of the world's most stringent measures on PCR testing and quarantine for international travellers, despite some domestic easing of curbs after last month's unprecedented Covid protests. The respondents to the survey, most of those who wanted to postpone the travel abroad, said that they were fearful of getting infected. This was the top concern. Worries about changes to domestic re-entry guidelines were in second place. The sample size of the survey was 4000. "People have become cautious," said Imke Wouters, a retail and consumer goods partner at the firm. "So even when they can travel, we don't think they will come back right away." As many as 51% of those surveyed plan to delay international travel. And when they do, short-haul destinations will be the first to benefit, the consultancy said in its study, "China Consumption Recovery". The Asian financial hub of Hong Kong topped wishlists for travel, with 34% of respondents saying it would be their first stop after the re-opening. The survey, in late October, followed the 20th Congress of the ruling Communist Party in Beijing, which brought President Xi Jinping a precedent-breaking third term as leader, at an event many had hoped would herald an opening-up after Covid. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Chinese not keen to travel abroad, even if Covid restrictions ease: Study

The Chinese government has decided to drop the need for people living in Beijing to show negative COVID-19 tests in order to enter supermarkets and offices. The decision was taken in the aftermath of massive protests all around the country due to the latest set of lockdowns and restrictions.

The government-owned newspaper China Daily carried the headline “Beijing readies itself for life again” with the report listing the reliefs that were provided to the citizens. The newspaper also reported that people in the Chinese capital were “gradually embracing” the normalcy.

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Apart of the supermarkets and offices, the need to show Covid reports were also dropped for some public transports. The subways started using the access cards once again and these were the biggest concessions made by the Communist Party of China in recent times as infections started to go up.

Reports also suggested that China can announce 10 new nationwide reliefs from the COVID-19 restrictions. According to Reuters, the protests around the country came as a shock for the government and the relaxation of rules is also expected to provide a boost to the Chinese economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/five-people-sentenced-to-death-in-iran-over-killing-of-basij-paramilitary-member-540589">Five people sentenced to death in Iran over killing of paramilitary member</a>

“The most difficult period has passed,” the official Xinhua news agency.

According to official data, over 90 per cent of China has been completely vaccinated and Tong Zhaohui, the director of the Beijing Institute of Respiratory Diseases, also told reporters on Monday that the latest strain of the Omicron variant has caused lesser cases than the 2009 influenza outbreak.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Chinese government has decided to drop the need for people living in Beijing to show negative COVID-19 tests in order to enter supermarkets and offices. The decision was taken in the aftermath of massive protests all around the country due to the latest set of lockdowns and restrictions.

The Chinese government has decided to drop the need for people living in Beijing to show negative COVID-19 tests in order to enter supermarkets and offices. The decision was taken in the aftermath of massive protests all around the country due to the latest set of lockdowns and restrictions. The government-owned newspaper China Daily carried the headline “Beijing readies itself for life again” with the report listing the reliefs that were provided to the citizens. The newspaper also reported that people in the Chinese capital were “gradually embracing” the normalcy. Also read | Ukraine to implement emergency power shutdowns after Russian missile strikes Apart of the supermarkets and offices, the need to show Covid reports were also dropped for some public transports. The subways started using the access cards once again and these were the biggest concessions made by the Communist Party of China in recent times as infections started to go up. Reports also suggested that China can announce 10 new nationwide reliefs from the COVID-19 restrictions. According to Reuters, the protests around the country came as a shock for the government and the relaxation of rules is also expected to provide a boost to the Chinese economy. Also read | Five people sentenced to death in Iran over killing of paramilitary member “The most difficult period has passed,” the official Xinhua news agency. According to official data, over 90 per cent of China has been completely vaccinated and Tong Zhaohui, the director of the Beijing Institute of Respiratory Diseases, also told reporters on Monday that the latest strain of the Omicron variant has caused lesser cases than the 2009 influenza outbreak. (With inputs from agencies)

Beijing ‘readies itself for life again’ as authorities drop some COVID-19 tests

A Hong Kong hotel had to pay one of its guests US$642 (HK$5,000) as a refund for an unfair charge of a "cleaning fee".

The hotel had apparently imposed the fee on its guest, without any prior notice during the online booking for a room. As per South China Morning Post, a Hong Konger Vivien Siu told them that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel had charged her Australian in-laws a 642 USD fee after her father-in-law tested positive for coronavirus.

The hotel apparently informed the guests of this charge only after they arrived from Sydney last month. During check-in, they were told that they will have to pay HK$5,000 if they tested positive for COVID-19.

Watch |&nbsp;Indonesia passes new criminal code, bans sex outside marriage

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As per protocol, Siu's father-in-law was sent to the government’s Penny’s Bay isolation centre for quarantine, however, they still had to pay the "excessive" fee.

Under Hong Kong's current pandemic regime, instead of compulsory quarantine in hotels, foreign guests just have to undergo three days of medical surveillance during which they have to take two PCR tests.

Not only was the HK$5,000 cleaning fee excessive, but the fact that they only told their guests about the fee upon check-in was also completely unreasonable and felt very much like a trap for tourists,” said Siu.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-confirms-over-47000-new-covid-cases-as-country-battles-eighth-wave-of-pandemic-540401">Japan confirms over 47,000 new Covid cases as country battles eighth wave of pandemic</a>

She said that they were charged the fee while checking in, which is a point where "it was simply impractical to refuse" because that would've meant that they had to scramble to find another hotel.

Following Siu's complaint, the hotel had to return the fee. however, it turns out that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel is not the only one charging this fee. Different hotels charge different amounts.

When the SCMP reached out to Consumer Council, they were told that they have received two such complaints however hotels are generally allowed to charge additional fees, but they have to inform the guests up front. Once the guests accept the liability only then these extra charges can be incurred.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-not-keen-to-travel-abroad-even-if-covid-restrictions-ease-study-540392">Chinese not keen to travel abroad, even if Covid restrictions ease: Study</a>

The representative advised that consumers should carefully check for additional charges at the time of booking itself.

"If the amount of the additional fee is not expressed in the terms and conditions, the hotel may only charge an amount that is reasonable. Whether the customer has agreed to pay for the additional fee or incurred liability to do so, and what amounts to a reasonable fee, is fact sensitive."(With inputs from agencies)

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A Hong Kong hotel had to pay one of its guests US$642 (HK$5,000) as a refund for an unfair charge of a "cleaning fee". The hotel had apparently imposed the fee on its guest, without any prior notice during the online booking for a room.

A Hong Kong hotel had to pay one of its guests US$642 (HK$5,000) as a refund for an unfair charge of a "cleaning fee". The hotel had apparently imposed the fee on its guest, without any prior notice during the online booking for a room. As per South China Morning Post, a Hong Konger Vivien Siu told them that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel had charged her Australian in-laws a 642 USD fee after her father-in-law tested positive for coronavirus. The hotel apparently informed the guests of this charge only after they arrived from Sydney last month. During check-in, they were told that they will have to pay HK$5,000 if they tested positive for COVID-19. Watch | Indonesia passes new criminal code, bans sex outside marriage As per protocol, Siu's father-in-law was sent to the government’s Penny’s Bay isolation centre for quarantine, however, they still had to pay the "excessive" fee. Under Hong Kong's current pandemic regime, instead of compulsory quarantine in hotels, foreign guests just have to undergo three days of medical surveillance during which they have to take two PCR tests. Not only was the HK$5,000 cleaning fee excessive, but the fact that they only told their guests about the fee upon check-in was also completely unreasonable and felt very much like a trap for tourists,” said Siu. Also read | Japan confirms over 47,000 new Covid cases as country battles eighth wave of pandemic She said that they were charged the fee while checking in, which is a point where "it was simply impractical to refuse" because that would've meant that they had to scramble to find another hotel. Following Siu's complaint, the hotel had to return the fee. however, it turns out that the Ibis Hong Kong Central and Sheung Wan hotel is not the only one charging this fee. Different hotels charge different amounts. When the SCMP reached out to Consumer Council, they were told that they have received two such complaints however hotels are generally allowed to charge additional fees, but they have to inform the guests up front. Once the guests accept the liability only then these extra charges can be incurred. Also read | Chinese not keen to travel abroad, even if Covid restrictions ease: Study The representative advised that consumers should carefully check for additional charges at the time of booking itself. "If the amount of the additional fee is not expressed in the terms and conditions, the hotel may only charge an amount that is reasonable. Whether the customer has agreed to pay for the additional fee or incurred liability to do so, and what amounts to a reasonable fee, is fact sensitive."(With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Hong Kong hotels charging Covid positive guests hundreds of dollars in 'cleaning fee'

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