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?

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

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

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 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'

The past week saw protests rage across China, as in a rare outpouring of anger citizens across the country took to the streets protesting against the nation's stringent zero-covid policy and restrictions. To pacify the protestors, Beijing hinted at the loosening of pandemic controls, but now the nation faces another looming problem; cash deficit.

As per a CNN report, local Chinese governments, which were charged with conducting mass testing and enforcing quarantine to keep infection at bay, are now running short on cash. To deal with the problem, they may be forced to cut corners or reduce other vital services.

Also read |&nbsp;China Covid: Covid-19 curbs eased further; no longer mandatory negative tests in Shenzhen, Beijing

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China's zero-Covid policy which has been in place for almost three years now has negatively affected the nation's business and economy, While the policy kept China out of recession in 2020, after nearly three years the bills "are mounting", says the report. The bills have placed an extraordinary strain on the nation's municipal authorities.&nbsp;

Talking to CNN business, George Magnus, an associate at the China Centre at Oxford University predicted that if lockdowns and mass testing continue, the risk to the nation's financial stability will increase.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-unwilling-to-allow-effective-foreign-covid-vaccine-despite-the-protests-us-539816">China unwilling to allow 'effective' foreign COVID vaccine despite the protests: US</a>

"Local governments are under huge pressure from the cost of maintaining zero-Covid, and we can already see this in the debt sustainability of several entities and [in] instances where public services are being scaled back, local assets or services sold and so on."

Compared to the federal government, local governments are more at risk because their income is mainly dependent on land sales. According to data from China's Ministry of Finance, they borrowed heavily to fund their expenditures of 11.8 trillion yuan ($1.65 trillion), which were higher than their revenue collections between January and October.

China's economic health is directly threatened by the nation's soaring debt levels. It not only raises the possibility of municipalities going into default on their debts, but it also limits the government's capacity to promote economic growth, maintain jobs, and strengthen public services.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-china-looks-to-loosen-some-covid-curbs-guangzhou-calls-virus-symptoms-flu-like-539731">As China loosens some Covid curbs, Guangzhou official says virus now ‘less virulent than flu’</a>

As per the report, around 40 per cent of local government expenditure in previous years has been funded by land sales. However, due to the slump in the housing market, this revenue has suffered.

Between January and October 2022, land sales fell by 26 per cent and are on pace to experience their first decline in seven years.

Meanwhile, as per official data, the spending on Covid-related healthcare soared by 13 per cent to reach $245 billion or 1.75 trillion yuan.

Compulsory testing which was largely government-funded has hit treasuries and many cities across the country while maintaining the mandatory negative test have now asked the citizens to pay for the tests.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The past week saw protests rage across China, as in a rare outpouring of anger citizens across the country took to the streets protesting against the nation's stringent zero-covid policy and restrictions.

The past week saw protests rage across China, as in a rare outpouring of anger citizens across the country took to the streets protesting against the nation's stringent zero-covid policy and restrictions. To pacify the protestors, Beijing hinted at the loosening of pandemic controls, but now the nation faces another looming problem; cash deficit. As per a CNN report, local Chinese governments, which were charged with conducting mass testing and enforcing quarantine to keep infection at bay, are now running short on cash. To deal with the problem, they may be forced to cut corners or reduce other vital services. Also read | China Covid: Covid-19 curbs eased further; no longer mandatory negative tests in Shenzhen, Beijing China's zero-Covid policy which has been in place for almost three years now has negatively affected the nation's business and economy, While the policy kept China out of recession in 2020, after nearly three years the bills "are mounting", says the report. The bills have placed an extraordinary strain on the nation's municipal authorities. Talking to CNN business, George Magnus, an associate at the China Centre at Oxford University predicted that if lockdowns and mass testing continue, the risk to the nation's financial stability will increase. Also read | China unwilling to allow 'effective' foreign COVID vaccine despite the protests: US "Local governments are under huge pressure from the cost of maintaining zero-Covid, and we can already see this in the debt sustainability of several entities and [in] instances where public services are being scaled back, local assets or services sold and so on." Compared to the federal government, local governments are more at risk because their income is mainly dependent on land sales. According to data from China's Ministry of Finance, they borrowed heavily to fund their expenditures of 11.8 trillion yuan ($1.65 trillion), which were higher than their revenue collections between January and October. China's economic health is directly threatened by the nation's soaring debt levels. It not only raises the possibility of municipalities going into default on their debts, but it also limits the government's capacity to promote economic growth, maintain jobs, and strengthen public services. Also read | As China loosens some Covid curbs, Guangzhou official says virus now ‘less virulent than flu’ As per the report, around 40 per cent of local government expenditure in previous years has been funded by land sales. However, due to the slump in the housing market, this revenue has suffered. Between January and October 2022, land sales fell by 26 per cent and are on pace to experience their first decline in seven years. Meanwhile, as per official data, the spending on Covid-related healthcare soared by 13 per cent to reach $245 billion or 1.75 trillion yuan. Compulsory testing which was largely government-funded has hit treasuries and many cities across the country while maintaining the mandatory negative test have now asked the citizens to pay for the tests. (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.

Almost three years of zero-Covid policy takes its toll on China's coffers; local govt cash strapped

The World Health Organization said on Friday that it was happy that China has decided to loosen some of its COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of protests all around the country.

"We're pleased to learn that the Chinese authorities are adjusting their current strategies and really trying to calibrate now the control measures they need... with the lives, the livelihoods and the human rights of people," WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said at a press conference.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-implement-emergency-level-censorship-over-zero-covid-protests-report-539404">China to implement ‘emergency’ level censorship over zero-Covid protests</a>

"It's really important that governments listen to their people when people are in pain," he added.

European Union chief Charles Michel spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinping about the protests and the tough restrictions imposed as part of the zero-Covid policy. Michel told the media that Beijing has hinted at decreasing the restrictions in the wake of a less dangerous Covid strain.

According to AFP, Xi told Michel that Chinese "people were frustrated" after three years of the pandemic and the protests are an expression of the displeasure. While China did not agree with the European model of avoiding lockdowns, Xi suggested that few restrictions will be removed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-condemns-assassination-attempt-on-pakistans-head-of-mission-to-afghanistan-in-kabul-539484">'Assassination attempt': Sharif condemns attack on Pak's mission head in Kabul</a>

"It was mainly students or teenagers in university. That's the explanation that was given," one senior European official said, speaking on condition of anonymity about what Xi said in the meeting.

"As the president explained to President Xi, in Europe we'd initially in the first phase of dealing with Covid focused very much on isolation, quarantine and testing, but over a period of time that has evolved in particular to a very large focus on vaccination,” another source told AFP.

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The World Health Organization said on Friday that it was happy that China has decided to loosen some of its COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of protests all around the country.

The World Health Organization said on Friday that it was happy that China has decided to loosen some of its COVID-19 restrictions in the aftermath of protests all around the country. "We're pleased to learn that the Chinese authorities are adjusting their current strategies and really trying to calibrate now the control measures they need... with the lives, the livelihoods and the human rights of people," WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said at a press conference. Also read | China to implement ‘emergency’ level censorship over zero-Covid protests "It's really important that governments listen to their people when people are in pain," he added. European Union chief Charles Michel spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinping about the protests and the tough restrictions imposed as part of the zero-Covid policy. Michel told the media that Beijing has hinted at decreasing the restrictions in the wake of a less dangerous Covid strain. According to AFP, Xi told Michel that Chinese "people were frustrated" after three years of the pandemic and the protests are an expression of the displeasure. While China did not agree with the European model of avoiding lockdowns, Xi suggested that few restrictions will be removed. Also read | 'Assassination attempt': Sharif condemns attack on Pak's mission head in Kabul "It was mainly students or teenagers in university. That's the explanation that was given," one senior European official said, speaking on condition of anonymity about what Xi said in the meeting. "As the president explained to President Xi, in Europe we'd initially in the first phase of dealing with Covid focused very much on isolation, quarantine and testing, but over a period of time that has evolved in particular to a very large focus on vaccination,” another source told AFP.

WHO 'pleased' to see China ease zero-Covid restrictions following massive protests

The Chinese government has decided to implement the highest “emergency response” level of censorship in the wake of the Covid protests, according to leaked directives accessed by AFP.&nbsp;According to the news agency, the government is expected to restrict VPNs and any other methods of bypassing the online censorship. 
 
Social media platforms like Weibo and WeChat have become the preferred move of communication for protesters and although the Chinese authorities have kept a tight watch of them, users have found a way to access foreign sites through VPNs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macron-calls-for-us-france-to-be-brothers-in-arms-during-white-house-visit-539216">Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for 'war crimes'</a>

The directive reportedly shows a spike in the number of people trying to go past the “Great Firewall” that allows the government to monitor all online activity. According to the translation provided by the China Digital Times, the directive speaks about the concerns of the government at present and initiates the “Level I Internet Emergency Response, the highest level of content management”.

It adds that the authorities are looking to take a “hands-on approach” when it comes to content management and the main objective will be to quickly find and identify mentions of what they referred to as “offline disturbances” and “recent high-profile events in various provinces”.

“The incident on November 24 triggered expressions of various grievances,” it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-crisis-upto-13000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-since-invasion-claims-zelenskys-adviser-539308">Upto 13,000 Ukraine troops killed since Russia invasion: Zelensky's adviser&nbsp;</a>

The incident mentioned in the directive was the building fire in Urumqi which claimed the lives of 10 people and was one of the main reasons behind the widespread protests in China.

“Pernicious political slogans appeared in Shanghai; college and university students held conspicuous political gatherings; smears by foreign media increased; and various websites have strengthened their content management,” the directive listed as examples of incidents that need to be controlled.

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The Chinese government has decided to implement the highest “emergency response” level of censorship in the wake of the Covid protests, according to leaked directives accessed by AFP.

The Chinese government has decided to implement the highest “emergency response” level of censorship in the wake of the Covid protests, according to leaked directives accessed by AFP. According to the news agency, the government is expected to restrict VPNs and any other methods of bypassing the online censorship. Social media platforms like Weibo and WeChat have become the preferred move of communication for protesters and although the Chinese authorities have kept a tight watch of them, users have found a way to access foreign sites through VPNs. Also read | Macron, Biden pledge to hold Russia accountable for 'war crimes' The directive reportedly shows a spike in the number of people trying to go past the “Great Firewall” that allows the government to monitor all online activity. According to the translation provided by the China Digital Times, the directive speaks about the concerns of the government at present and initiates the “Level I Internet Emergency Response, the highest level of content management”. It adds that the authorities are looking to take a “hands-on approach” when it comes to content management and the main objective will be to quickly find and identify mentions of what they referred to as “offline disturbances” and “recent high-profile events in various provinces”. “The incident on November 24 triggered expressions of various grievances,” it said. Also read | Upto 13,000 Ukraine troops killed since Russia invasion: Zelensky's adviser The incident mentioned in the directive was the building fire in Urumqi which claimed the lives of 10 people and was one of the main reasons behind the widespread protests in China. “Pernicious political slogans appeared in Shanghai; college and university students held conspicuous political gatherings; smears by foreign media increased; and various websites have strengthened their content management,” the directive listed as examples of incidents that need to be controlled.

China to implement ‘emergency’ level censorship over zero-Covid protests: Report

Former NBA star Jeremy Lin, who plays for a Chinese team, was fined 10,000 yuan ($1,400) on Friday for criticising quarantine facilities. This comes as the government tries to quell demonstrations against some of the strictest anti-virus measures in the world.

Following protests this weekend in Shanghai and other places, when some demonstrators demanded the resignation of President Xi Jinping, several cities on Friday also loosened restrictions, enabling malls, supermarkets, and other businesses to reopen. The northwest city of Urumqi, where a fatal fire started the demonstrations, said that stores and other establishments will be reopening.

The Communist Party, which is currently in power, is attempting to silence criticism of the disruption and human cost of their "zero COVID" approach, which has kept millions of people inside their homes. Detained protesters had their images and recordings of the demonstrations removed from Chinese social media. In an effort to stop further demonstrations, police spread out across Shanghai, Beijing, and other cities.

Lin, who plays for the Loong Lions Basketball Club, made “inappropriate remarks about quarantine hotel-related facilities” where the team stayed Wednesday ahead of a game, the China Basketball Association announced. It said that “caused adverse effects on the league and the competition area.”

The association made no mention of Lin's statements, and his profile on the well-known Sina Weibo social media site had no evidence of them.

Before the games the next week in Zhuji, a city south of Shanghai in the Zhejiang region, Lin reportedly recorded a video complaining about the hotel workout facilities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Former NBA star Jeremy Lin, who plays for a Chinese team, was fined 10,000 yuan ($1,400) on Friday for criticising quarantine facilities. This comes as the government tries to quell demonstrations against some of the strictest anti-virus measures in the world.

Former NBA star Jeremy Lin, who plays for a Chinese team, was fined 10,000 yuan ($1,400) on Friday for criticising quarantine facilities. This comes as the government tries to quell demonstrations against some of the strictest anti-virus measures in the world. Following protests this weekend in Shanghai and other places, when some demonstrators demanded the resignation of President Xi Jinping, several cities on Friday also loosened restrictions, enabling malls, supermarkets, and other businesses to reopen. The northwest city of Urumqi, where a fatal fire started the demonstrations, said that stores and other establishments will be reopening. The Communist Party, which is currently in power, is attempting to silence criticism of the disruption and human cost of their "zero COVID" approach, which has kept millions of people inside their homes. Detained protesters had their images and recordings of the demonstrations removed from Chinese social media. In an effort to stop further demonstrations, police spread out across Shanghai, Beijing, and other cities. Lin, who plays for the Loong Lions Basketball Club, made “inappropriate remarks about quarantine hotel-related facilities” where the team stayed Wednesday ahead of a game, the China Basketball Association announced. It said that “caused adverse effects on the league and the competition area.” The association made no mention of Lin's statements, and his profile on the well-known Sina Weibo social media site had no evidence of them. Before the games the next week in Zhuji, a city south of Shanghai in the Zhejiang region, Lin reportedly recorded a video complaining about the hotel workout facilities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China fines former basketball star Jeremy Lin over quarantine comments

Last weekend, students at Beijing's Tsinghua University came together to express their rage over China's zero-Covid rules. However, the economic trajectory of the nation is intrinsically linked to this unrest. The economic future of China's youth, who are&nbsp;at the centre of these countrywide protests seems to be jeopardised by the country's rigorous effort to contain Covid.&nbsp;Youth unemployment this year touched its highest on record.

<h2>Backdrop</h2>

A catastrophic fire at a high-rise building in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang province, which left 10 dead, sparked widespread social discontent. As claims that the lockdown impeded rescue operations were made based on fabricated recordings of the incident, frustration grew.&nbsp;

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Protests against zero-Covid policy across China

Although the demonstrations initially erupted in response to the fatalities in Xinjiang, they soon expanded to include criticism of China's zero-Covid policies, governmental restrictions, and monitoring, as well as, in some cases, direct attacks on Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-eases-covid-restrictions-in-beijing-hints-at-possible-change-in-stance-report-539115">China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance: Report</a>

<h2>Chinese youth and the Covid squeeze</h2>

The overall Chinese economy is currently in one of its most precarious phases in recent times. The economy was insulated by Xi Jinping's zero-Covid measures in 2020 and the first few months of 2021, but this year they have come at a significant cost.

A string of lockdowns in response to Omicron variant breakouts have crippled consumption and contributed to growth being lower than the stated target of 5.5 per cent, which was already the lowest in decades.

The youth unemployment rate, which reached 20 per cent&nbsp;in July just after Shanghai was placed under lockdown, has been one of the effects that are most obvious. In contrast to overall unemployment, which is 5.5 per cent, it has been around that level for months. The measurement, which the government started tracking

According to media reports, China's youth unemployment rate hit a record high of 19.9 per cent in July, with nearly one in five young people unemployed. It was also heavily attributable to Beijing's zero-Covid action of enforcing stringent widespread lockdowns in big cities like Shanghai, which put recent grads in less than optimal economic circumstances.

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Zero-Covid has had a significant negative economic impact. Businesses in Shanghai that are still having to deal with stringent efforts to contain the virus are still feeling the effects of a two-month shutdown in the spring. A track-and-trace system is one of them, and everyone who comes into touch with a positive case runs the daily risk of being quarantined.

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Benjamin Cowling, Chair Professor, Epidemiology opens up on China's zero-Covid policy

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The purchasing managers' index data, released on Thursday, a day after it appeared that the government had made some changes to its Covid approach, show that economic weakness persisted in the manufacturing sector in November despite the fact that the number of daily infections remained in the tens of thousands.

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Last weekend, students at Beijing's Tsinghua University came together to express their rage over China's zero-Covid rules. However, the economic trajectory of the nation is intrinsically linked to this unrest.

Last weekend, students at Beijing's Tsinghua University came together to express their rage over China's zero-Covid rules. However, the economic trajectory of the nation is intrinsically linked to this unrest. The economic future of China's youth, who are at the centre of these countrywide protests seems to be jeopardised by the country's rigorous effort to contain Covid. Youth unemployment this year touched its highest on record. Backdrop A catastrophic fire at a high-rise building in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang province, which left 10 dead, sparked widespread social discontent. As claims that the lockdown impeded rescue operations were made based on fabricated recordings of the incident, frustration grew. Protests against zero-Covid policy across China Although the demonstrations initially erupted in response to the fatalities in Xinjiang, they soon expanded to include criticism of China's zero-Covid policies, governmental restrictions, and monitoring, as well as, in some cases, direct attacks on Chinese President Xi Jinping. Also read | China eases Covid restrictions in Beijing, hints at possible change in stance: Report Chinese youth and the Covid squeeze The overall Chinese economy is currently in one of its most precarious phases in recent times. The economy was insulated by Xi Jinping's zero-Covid measures in 2020 and the first few months of 2021, but this year they have come at a significant cost. A string of lockdowns in response to Omicron variant breakouts have crippled consumption and contributed to growth being lower than the stated target of 5.5 per cent, which was already the lowest in decades. The youth unemployment rate, which reached 20 per cent in July just after Shanghai was placed under lockdown, has been one of the effects that are most obvious. In contrast to overall unemployment, which is 5.5 per cent, it has been around that level for months. The measurement, which the government started tracking According to media reports, China's youth unemployment rate hit a record high of 19.9 per cent in July, with nearly one in five young people unemployed. It was also heavily attributable to Beijing's zero-Covid action of enforcing stringent widespread lockdowns in big cities like Shanghai, which put recent grads in less than optimal economic circumstances. × Zero-Covid has had a significant negative economic impact. Businesses in Shanghai that are still having to deal with stringent efforts to contain the virus are still feeling the effects of a two-month shutdown in the spring. A track-and-trace system is one of them, and everyone who comes into touch with a positive case runs the daily risk of being quarantined. Also WATCH | Benjamin Cowling, Chair Professor, Epidemiology opens up on China's zero-Covid policy The purchasing managers' index data, released on Thursday, a day after it appeared that the government had made some changes to its Covid approach, show that economic weakness persisted in the manufacturing sector in November despite the fact that the number of daily infections remained in the tens of thousands.

WION Data lab: Young and out of job in China; zero-Covid norms trigger unemployment crisis

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday said that China still has room to adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, pointing out that the nation's stringent policies have been especially hard on the people.

In an email statement to AFP a spokesperson for IMF, "Covid and Covid-related restrictions are hard on people... This has been the case everywhere, and even more so in China."

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: China's factory, service activities shrink to 7 month low

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The organisation said that Chinese authorities have made policies more targeted, and "there is scope for further gradual, safe recalibration."

Three years into the pandemic, when many countries have eased covid containment measures like lockdowns, China still regularly deploys such measures, locking up entire neighbourhoods and cities to eradicate the virus. These strict measures come with a heavy toll on citizens and the nation's economy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-relaxes-covid-19-rules-in-several-districts-in-guangzhou-538833">Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts of Guangzhou</a>

IMF said that China's economy has partially recovered and an adjustment of its policy may help growth in 2023, while also supporting the global economy.

For a large part of this year, the Chinese major business hub has been under lockdown. This has not only impacted Beijing's economy but also the global markets, and supply chains.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-years-of-covid-was-his-entire-life-in-china-child-dies-due-to-lockdown-rules-father-offered-hush-money-530653">'3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money</a>

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Recently, following reports of deaths due to these lockdowns people have protested, raging across the nation in a "rare outpouring" of anger.&nbsp;A fire in a high-rise building in Xinjiang that killed ten people last week reportedly acted as a catalyst for these protests. Many have alleged that a partial lockdown on the building fatally delayed rescue operations and also obstructed escape routes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday said that China still has room to adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, pointing out that the nation's stringent policies have been especially hard on the people.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday said that China still has room to adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, pointing out that the nation's stringent policies have been especially hard on the people. In an email statement to AFP a spokesperson for IMF, "Covid and Covid-related restrictions are hard on people... This has been the case everywhere, and even more so in China." Watch | World Business Watch: China's factory, service activities shrink to 7 month low The organisation said that Chinese authorities have made policies more targeted, and "there is scope for further gradual, safe recalibration." Three years into the pandemic, when many countries have eased covid containment measures like lockdowns, China still regularly deploys such measures, locking up entire neighbourhoods and cities to eradicate the virus. These strict measures come with a heavy toll on citizens and the nation's economy. Also read | Chinese government relaxes COVID-19 rules in several districts of Guangzhou IMF said that China's economy has partially recovered and an adjustment of its policy may help growth in 2023, while also supporting the global economy. For a large part of this year, the Chinese major business hub has been under lockdown. This has not only impacted Beijing's economy but also the global markets, and supply chains. Also read | '3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money Recently, following reports of deaths due to these lockdowns people have protested, raging across the nation in a "rare outpouring" of anger. A fire in a high-rise building in Xinjiang that killed ten people last week reportedly acted as a catalyst for these protests. Many have alleged that a partial lockdown on the building fatally delayed rescue operations and also obstructed escape routes. (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 can adjust its strict zero-Covid policy, it's been hard on people, says IMF

The United States and Canada have requested China to not use force against the protesters opposing the latest set of lockdowns imposed by the Communist Party of China as part of the Zero Covid policy. With citizens showing dissent in various parts of the country, the top security body in China has&nbsp;already urged the government to launch a “crackdown” on “hostile forces”.

According to video footage, which was verified by AFP, the police clashed with protesters in the city of Guangzhou. The video showed that security personnel in hazmat suits were present in the city’s Haizhu district on Tuesday and screams of people could be heard in the background. It also showed objects being thrown at the police and many people were detained by the authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europes-import-of-russian-lng-jumps-42-amid-russia-ukraine-war-report-538720">Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report</a>

In response to this incident, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that China should allow people to protest peacefully and not use violence to stop the demonstrations.

“We don’t want to see protesters physically harmed, intimidated or coerced in any way. That’s what peaceful protest is all about and that’s what we have continued to stand up for whether it’s in China or Iran or elsewhere around the world,” he said in an interview with CNN.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scott-morrison-becomes-the-first-former-pm-to-be-censured-by-the-australian-parliament-538686">Scott Morrison becomes the first former PM to be censured by the parliament</a>

Canada also took a similar stance regarding the topic and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the Chinese government should not curb the freedom of expression when it comes to the people.

“Everyone in China should be allowed to express themselves, should be allowed to share their perspectives and indeed protest,” Trudeau said. “We’re going to continue to ensure that China knows we’ll stand up for human rights, we’ll stand with people who are expressing themselves.”

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The United States and Canada have requested China to not use force against the protesters opposing the latest set of lockdowns imposed by the Communist Party of China as part of the Zero Covid policy.

The United States and Canada have requested China to not use force against the protesters opposing the latest set of lockdowns imposed by the Communist Party of China as part of the Zero Covid policy. With citizens showing dissent in various parts of the country, the top security body in China has already urged the government to launch a “crackdown” on “hostile forces”. According to video footage, which was verified by AFP, the police clashed with protesters in the city of Guangzhou. The video showed that security personnel in hazmat suits were present in the city’s Haizhu district on Tuesday and screams of people could be heard in the background. It also showed objects being thrown at the police and many people were detained by the authorities. Also read | Europe's import of Russian LNG jumps 42% amid Russia-Ukraine war: Report In response to this incident, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that China should allow people to protest peacefully and not use violence to stop the demonstrations. “We don’t want to see protesters physically harmed, intimidated or coerced in any way. That’s what peaceful protest is all about and that’s what we have continued to stand up for whether it’s in China or Iran or elsewhere around the world,” he said in an interview with CNN. Also read | Scott Morrison becomes the first former PM to be censured by the parliament Canada also took a similar stance regarding the topic and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the Chinese government should not curb the freedom of expression when it comes to the people. “Everyone in China should be allowed to express themselves, should be allowed to share their perspectives and indeed protest,” Trudeau said. “We’re going to continue to ensure that China knows we’ll stand up for human rights, we’ll stand with people who are expressing themselves.”

US and Canada urge China not to use force for stopping protests against stringent Covid curbs

Amid the ongoing protests across China against the country’s stringent zero Covid policy and restrictions, the situation escalated in the manufacturing hub&nbsp;Guangzhou’s Haizhu district where protesters clashed with the police&nbsp;late Tuesday. Several videos, verified by Reuters, also show several people being detained by the police.&nbsp;

In one of the videos, dozens of hazmat-suited riot police were seen holding shields at the front as well as others holding them over their heads to create a barrier and march towards the protesters who were throwing things at them. Several lockdown barriers were seen broken as police moved past them.&nbsp; 
 
Another clip showed demonstrators throwing things at the police. According to Reuters, a third clip showed canisters of tear gas being thrown at the police and landing in the middle of a small crowd in a narrow lane and people running away from the fumes. While the cause of this escalation remains unclear, Guangzhou is one of the hardest-hit cities with the latest wave of Covid-19 infections in China.&nbsp;

Over the weekend and on Monday, some major cities including Shanghai and Beijing witnessed thousands of protesters taking to the streets to express their anger and frustration over lockdowns, daily Covid tests and other restrictions in line with China’s zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;

Social media posts said the clashes took place on Tuesday night and were caused by a disagreement over pandemic-induced lockdown restrictions in the district. Furthermore, the report said that rows of people in handcuffs were seen being escorted to an undisclosed location.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a statement, the country’s Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission said it will crack down on the “hostile forces” for their activities of infiltration and sabotage in China, late Tuesday.&nbsp;

Due to the country’s heavy censorship, it is unclear how many cities witnessed protests. However, a United States government-funded Freedom House’s China Dissent Monitor estimates at least 27 demonstrations took place from Saturday to Monday across the country.&nbsp; 
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Amid the ongoing protests across China against the country’s stringent zero Covid policy and restrictions, the situation escalated in the manufacturing hub Guangzhou’s Haizhu district where protesters clashed with the police late Tuesday.

Amid the ongoing protests across China against the country’s stringent zero Covid policy and restrictions, the situation escalated in the manufacturing hub Guangzhou’s Haizhu district where protesters clashed with the police late Tuesday. Several videos, verified by Reuters, also show several people being detained by the police. In one of the videos, dozens of hazmat-suited riot police were seen holding shields at the front as well as others holding them over their heads to create a barrier and march towards the protesters who were throwing things at them. Several lockdown barriers were seen broken as police moved past them. Another clip showed demonstrators throwing things at the police. According to Reuters, a third clip showed canisters of tear gas being thrown at the police and landing in the middle of a small crowd in a narrow lane and people running away from the fumes. While the cause of this escalation remains unclear, Guangzhou is one of the hardest-hit cities with the latest wave of Covid-19 infections in China. Over the weekend and on Monday, some major cities including Shanghai and Beijing witnessed thousands of protesters taking to the streets to express their anger and frustration over lockdowns, daily Covid tests and other restrictions in line with China’s zero-Covid policy. Social media posts said the clashes took place on Tuesday night and were caused by a disagreement over pandemic-induced lockdown restrictions in the district. Furthermore, the report said that rows of people in handcuffs were seen being escorted to an undisclosed location. Meanwhile, in a statement, the country’s Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission said it will crack down on the “hostile forces” for their activities of infiltration and sabotage in China, late Tuesday. Due to the country’s heavy censorship, it is unclear how many cities witnessed protests. However, a United States government-funded Freedom House’s China Dissent Monitor estimates at least 27 demonstrations took place from Saturday to Monday across the country. 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.

Covid protests escalate in China’s Guangzhou, hazmat-suited riot police clash with demonstrators

Dozens of people gathered in central Hong Kong and at a major university campus on Monday to protests against China's strict Covid-19 restrictions. The supporters also mourned the victims of a deadly fire in the mainland's northwest.

Protests spread in China as anger mounts over ‘zero-COVID’; other countries join in solidarity

Hundreds across China took to the streets on Sunday protesting against the nation's stringent Zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;

In the wake of a deadly fire that many have chalked up to the two-plus year of strict lockdowns, the "rare outpouring" of anger took place across major Chinese cities.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | China: Anger mounts over Zero-Covid policy, protests break out in Beijing, Shanghai

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As per Reuters, in Shanghai demonstrators and police clashed as protests continued for the third day.

Witnesses and videos posted on social media show one large group chanting "Down with the Chinese Communist Party, down with Xi Jinping" in an unusual public protest against the government.

Unverified videos on Twitter and other social media platforms show people chanting "End the lockdown!"

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-stringent-zero-covid-policy-sparks-protests-across-the-country-537832">China’s stringent ‘zero-Covid’ curbs trigger outrage, protests across the country</a>

The Hong Kong Democracy Council took to Twitter in support&nbsp;of the protestors and wrote "#HongKongers are closely following the protests in #China &amp; salute the brave Chinese who’ve come out. #DownWithXiJinping #DownWithTheCCP. We agree. The fate of #HongKong is bound up with the fate of China."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HongKongers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HongKongers</a> are closely following the protests in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> &amp; salute the brave Chinese who’ve come out. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DownWithXiJinping?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DownWithXiJinping</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DownWithTheCCP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DownWithTheCCP</a>. We agree. The fate of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HongKong?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HongKong</a> is bound up with the fate of China. <a href="https://t.co/c0vgaMmu6o">pic.twitter.com/c0vgaMmu6o</a>
— Hong Kong Democracy Council (@hkdc_us) <a href="https://twitter.com/hkdc_us/status/1596889740766478336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Hundreds of people looking like students, workers gathered in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chaoyang?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chaoyang</a> district where all embassies are located- continuing the protest which has already gripped many cities and universities across <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>. Heavy police presence with reinforcements coming quickly<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaProtests?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaProtests</a> <a href="https://t.co/88OGKRcrLn">pic.twitter.com/88OGKRcrLn</a>
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/1596891380860981255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Similar videos from Chengdu show people holding up blank sheets of paper in protest and chanting "We don't want lifelong rulers. We don't want emperors," a reference to Xi, who has scrapped presidential term limits.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-after-deadly-fire-that-killed-10-huge-covid-protests-erupt-in-xinjiang-537661">China: Huge protests erupt in Xinjiang, locals blame strict Covid curbs for 10 casualties in blaze</a>

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Protests in China are gaining momentum, what do you think will turn into a bigger rebellion?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaProtests?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaProtests</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaUprising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaUprising</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaUprisingThread?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaUprisingThread</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaRevolution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaRevolution</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVIDIsAirborne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDIsAirborne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CovidIsNotOver?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CovidIsNotOver</a> <a href="https://t.co/LIRIQcJKvf">pic.twitter.com/LIRIQcJKvf</a>
— Dealer of truth (@Dealeroftruth12) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dealeroftruth12/status/1596889459601334274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Residents of Wuhan, where the pandemic began three years ago, also took to the streets, smashing through metal barricades, tearing down COVID testing tents, and demanding that lockdowns be lifted.

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Protests in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wuhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wuhan</a> too.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chinalockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chinalockdown</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaUprising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaUprising</a> <a href="https://t.co/WGZGPWCVXC">pic.twitter.com/WGZGPWCVXC</a>
— Kalsang Jigme བོད། (@kalsang_jigme) <a href="https://twitter.com/kalsang_jigme/status/1596889678174912517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In Lanzhou, in the northwest, residents on Saturday toppled COVID staff tents and destroyed testing stations, according to posts on social media. Although none had tested positive, as per a Reuters&nbsp;report protesters claimed that they were still placed under lockdown.

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🇨🇳 — VIDEO: Protesters tear down barricades in Wuhan, as anti-lockdown protests spread to more cities in China. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/6cVNLrI02K">pic.twitter.com/6cVNLrI02K</a>
— Belaaz News (@TheBelaaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheBelaaz/status/1596891281367916544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, images and videos shared on social media show that on Sunday, scores of individuals participated in a nonviolent demonstration against COVID restrictions at Beijing's esteemed Tsinghua University while singing the national anthem.

Widespread public protest is uncommon in China, where dissent has been largely suppressed under Xi, forcing citizens to vent their rage on social media, where they must play cat-and-mouse with censors.

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中国湖南省長沙市の五一広場駅での中国人の抗議 
信じられない、<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E4%BA%BA%E9%96%93%E3%81%AE%E9%8E%96?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#人間の鎖</a> じゃないか　<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HumanChain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HumanChain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E4%BA%BA%E7%9A%84%E9%8E%96%E9%8F%88?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#人的鎖鏈</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chinaprotest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chinaprotest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChinaUprising?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChinaUprising</a> <a href="https://t.co/n9rowov2uP">pic.twitter.com/n9rowov2uP</a>
— NoMania_ 卍解 🇯🇵🏴 (@NoMania004) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoMania004/status/1596891424582438912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Despite the fact that much of the rest of the world has eased most restrictions, China has maintained Xi's zero-COVID policy. China's case counts had reached record highs for days, although being low by international standards; on Saturday, there were approximately 40,000 new infections, which led to yet another round of lockdowns in various locations across the nation.

Beijing has defended the measure as important to save lives and as a safeguard against overtaxing the healthcare system. Officials however have vowed to keep&nbsp;up the restrictions.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hundreds across China took to the streets on Sunday protesting against the nation's stringent Zero-Covid policy. In the wake of a deadly fire that many have chalked up to the two-plus year of strict lockdowns, the "rare outpouring" of anger took place across major Chinese cities.

Hundreds across China took to the streets on Sunday protesting against the nation's stringent Zero-Covid policy. In the wake of a deadly fire that many have chalked up to the two-plus year of strict lockdowns, the "rare outpouring" of anger took place across major Chinese cities. Watch | WION Fineprint | China: Anger mounts over Zero-Covid policy, protests break out in Beijing, Shanghai As per Reuters, in Shanghai demonstrators and police clashed as protests continued for the third day. Witnesses and videos posted on social media show one large group chanting "Down with the Chinese Communist Party, down with Xi Jinping" in an unusual public protest against the government. Unverified videos on Twitter and other social media platforms show people chanting "End the lockdown!" Also read | China’s stringent ‘zero-Covid’ curbs trigger outrage, protests across the country The Hong Kong Democracy Council took to Twitter in support of the protestors and wrote "#HongKongers are closely following the protests in #China & salute the brave Chinese who’ve come out. #DownWithXiJinping #DownWithTheCCP. We agree. The fate of #HongKong is bound up with the fate of China." #HongKongers are closely following the protests in #China & salute the brave Chinese who’ve come out. #DownWithXiJinping #DownWithTheCCP. We agree. The fate of #HongKong is bound up with the fate of China. pic.twitter.com/c0vgaMmu6o — Hong Kong Democracy Council (@hkdc_us) November 27, 2022 × Hundreds of people looking like students, workers gathered in #Chaoyang district where all embassies are located- continuing the protest which has already gripped many cities and universities across #China. Heavy police presence with reinforcements coming quickly#ChinaProtests pic.twitter.com/88OGKRcrLn — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) November 27, 2022 × Similar videos from Chengdu show people holding up blank sheets of paper in protest and chanting "We don't want lifelong rulers. We don't want emperors," a reference to Xi, who has scrapped presidential term limits. Also read | China: Huge protests erupt in Xinjiang, locals blame strict Covid curbs for 10 casualties in blaze Protests in China are gaining momentum, what do you think will turn into a bigger rebellion?#China #ChinaProtests #ChinaUprising #ChinaUprisingThread #ChinaRevolution #COVID19 #COVIDIsAirborne #CovidIsNotOver pic.twitter.com/LIRIQcJKvf — Dealer of truth (@Dealeroftruth12) November 27, 2022 × Residents of Wuhan, where the pandemic began three years ago, also took to the streets, smashing through metal barricades, tearing down COVID testing tents, and demanding that lockdowns be lifted. Protests in #Wuhan too.#China #chinalockdown #ChinaUprising pic.twitter.com/WGZGPWCVXC — Kalsang Jigme བོད། (@kalsang_jigme) November 27, 2022 × In Lanzhou, in the northwest, residents on Saturday toppled COVID staff tents and destroyed testing stations, according to posts on social media. Although none had tested positive, as per a Reuters report protesters claimed that they were still placed under lockdown. 🇨🇳 — VIDEO: Protesters tear down barricades in Wuhan, as anti-lockdown protests spread to more cities in China. pic.twitter.com/6cVNLrI02K — Belaaz News (@TheBelaaz) November 27, 2022 × Meanwhile, images and videos shared on social media show that on Sunday, scores of individuals participated in a nonviolent demonstration against COVID restrictions at Beijing's esteemed Tsinghua University while singing the national anthem. Widespread public protest is uncommon in China, where dissent has been largely suppressed under Xi, forcing citizens to vent their rage on social media, where they must play cat-and-mouse with censors. 中国湖南省長沙市の五一広場駅での中国人の抗議 信じられない、#人間の鎖 じゃないか　#HumanChain #人的鎖鏈#chinaprotest #ChinaUprising pic.twitter.com/n9rowov2uP — NoMania_ 卍解 🇯🇵🏴 (@NoMania004) November 27, 2022 × Despite the fact that much of the rest of the world has eased most restrictions, China has maintained Xi's zero-COVID policy. China's case counts had reached record highs for days, although being low by international standards; on Saturday, there were approximately 40,000 new infections, which led to yet another round of lockdowns in various locations across the nation. Beijing has defended the measure as important to save lives and as a safeguard against overtaxing the healthcare system. Officials however have vowed to keep up the restrictions. (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's 'rare outpouring' of anger: Protesters chant 'down with Xi', break Covid testing tents. Watch!

Local Tibetans' lives are a living misery as a result of China's zero-Covid policy. Tibetans are subjected to inhumane Covid restrictions that leave them abused, traumatised, harassed, and powerless because they aren't even permitted to express their outrage or make contact with their family outside Tibet.

The Chinese government's disastrous zero-Covid policy has caused a scarcity of essential medicines for the Tibetans, who are now suffering. Both food- and medicine-related goods fall under this category. According to a report from Tibet Press, they are not permitted to demonstrate or voice their thoughts.

On Twitter, a video was shared that showed how the cost of food has gone up in Tibet and that those who speak out against it face state-instigated violence.

WATCH | China Covid: Country reports 39,791 new infections; rise despite zero-Covid policy

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Chinese security personnel are seen in the video physically&nbsp;assaulting locals, handcuffing them, and dispersing them with pepper spray. According to a video from Free Tibet, their phones had also been taken, making it impossible for them to contact anybody. Tibet Press reported this.

The Chinese government is harming Tibetans more than helping them by tightening the Covid guidelines rather than tackling the issue.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-stringent-zero-covid-policy-sparks-protests-across-the-country-537832">China’s stringent ‘zero-Covid’ curbs trigger outrage, protests across the country</a>

According to a report by Tibet Press, International Campaign for Tibet, a pro-Tibet advocacy group, the Chinese government has been working hard to control social media even in the dire circumstances that Tibet's residents are facing because doing otherwise could expose the atrocities that China has subjected Tibet to the rest of the world.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Local Tibetans' lives are a living misery as a result of China's zero-Covid policy. Tibetans are subjected to inhumane Covid restrictions that leave them abused, traumatised, harassed, and powerless because they aren't even permitted to express their outrage or make contact with their family outside Tibet.

Local Tibetans' lives are a living misery as a result of China's zero-Covid policy. Tibetans are subjected to inhumane Covid restrictions that leave them abused, traumatised, harassed, and powerless because they aren't even permitted to express their outrage or make contact with their family outside Tibet. The Chinese government's disastrous zero-Covid policy has caused a scarcity of essential medicines for the Tibetans, who are now suffering. Both food- and medicine-related goods fall under this category. According to a report from Tibet Press, they are not permitted to demonstrate or voice their thoughts. On Twitter, a video was shared that showed how the cost of food has gone up in Tibet and that those who speak out against it face state-instigated violence. WATCH | China Covid: Country reports 39,791 new infections; rise despite zero-Covid policy Chinese security personnel are seen in the video physically assaulting locals, handcuffing them, and dispersing them with pepper spray. According to a video from Free Tibet, their phones had also been taken, making it impossible for them to contact anybody. Tibet Press reported this. The Chinese government is harming Tibetans more than helping them by tightening the Covid guidelines rather than tackling the issue. Also read | China’s stringent ‘zero-Covid’ curbs trigger outrage, protests across the country According to a report by Tibet Press, International Campaign for Tibet, a pro-Tibet advocacy group, the Chinese government has been working hard to control social media even in the dire circumstances that Tibet's residents are facing because doing otherwise could expose the atrocities that China has subjected Tibet to the rest of the world. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tibetans face torture, abuse under China's zero-Covid restrictions

COVID-19 infections are on a rise in China as the country's top health officials begin easing some pandemic measures in a bit to provide some economic relief to the people

Chinese cities record new surge in COVID-19 cases

The Chinese district of Guangzhou, which is home to 1.8 million people on Saturday ordered its citizens to stay at home for virus testing following another rise in the number of infections.

Although China's numbers are low, a "zero-COVID" approach that attempts to isolate every infected individual is being challenged by a rise over the past week.&nbsp;Over the previous 24 hours, a total of 11,773 infections—including 10,351 patients with no symptoms—were reported nationally.

Watch |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | China eases COVID restrictions

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AP reports that while in order to reduce the cost and disruption, quarantine for travellers arriving in China has been reduced from a minimum of seven days to five, the ruling Communist Party said it would stick to its strict zero-COVID approach.&nbsp;

On Saturday, health officials also issued a warning that the decision to change anti-virus safeguards did not signal their end.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-are-using-cantonese-to-criticise-zero-covid-amid-heavy-censorship-533560">Chinese are using Cantonese to criticise zero-Covid amid heavy censorship</a>

This is at a time when other nations attempt to switch to a long-term approach to coping with the virus and have generally loosened travel and other restrictions.

Rather than unwinding or "lying flat," the NHC deputy director Lei Haichao noted, "This is more precise and scientific prevention and treatment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-eases-quarantine-rules-scraps-inbound-air-travel-curbs-even-as-covid-cases-spike-533291" hreflang="en">China eases quarantine rules, scraps inbound air travel curbs even though Covid cases spike</a>

"Prevent the epidemic and minimize the impact on economic and social development," according to Lei, is the aim.

The modifications would permit some international businesses and athletes travelling to China to move around inside a restricted area without having to undergo a quarantine period. More precise guidelines on who constitutes an infected person's contact will lower the number of affected people.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Chinese district of Guangzhou, which is home to 1.8 million people on Saturday ordered its citizens to stay at home for virus testing following another rise in the number of infections.

The Chinese district of Guangzhou, which is home to 1.8 million people on Saturday ordered its citizens to stay at home for virus testing following another rise in the number of infections. Although China's numbers are low, a "zero-COVID" approach that attempts to isolate every infected individual is being challenged by a rise over the past week. Over the previous 24 hours, a total of 11,773 infections—including 10,351 patients with no symptoms—were reported nationally. Watch | WION Fineprint | China eases COVID restrictions AP reports that while in order to reduce the cost and disruption, quarantine for travellers arriving in China has been reduced from a minimum of seven days to five, the ruling Communist Party said it would stick to its strict zero-COVID approach. On Saturday, health officials also issued a warning that the decision to change anti-virus safeguards did not signal their end. Also read | Chinese are using Cantonese to criticise zero-Covid amid heavy censorship This is at a time when other nations attempt to switch to a long-term approach to coping with the virus and have generally loosened travel and other restrictions. Rather than unwinding or "lying flat," the NHC deputy director Lei Haichao noted, "This is more precise and scientific prevention and treatment." Also read | China eases quarantine rules, scraps inbound air travel curbs even though Covid cases spike "Prevent the epidemic and minimize the impact on economic and social development," according to Lei, is the aim. The modifications would permit some international businesses and athletes travelling to China to move around inside a restricted area without having to undergo a quarantine period. More precise guidelines on who constitutes an infected person's contact will lower the number of affected people. (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.

As China eases 'Zero-COVID' rules, close to 12,000 cases of new infection reported

Chinese citizens in Guangzhou, a 19 million-person manufacturing powerhouse, are venting their frustration after their city became the centre of a widespread Covid outbreak, forcing yet another round of lockdown measures, but it is difficult to express open criticism on China's heavily censored internet.&nbsp;

One resident wrote on Weibo, China's restricted version of Twitter, on Monday, "We had to lock down in April, and then again in November," before sprinkling the message with slurs, including references to the mothers of officials -&nbsp;“The government hasn’t provided subsidies – do you think my rent doesn’t cost money?”

Such colourful posts are noteworthy not only because they reflect the mounting anger of the public at China's unyielding zero-Covid policy.&nbsp;

The government's army of censors would often quickly remove such scathing criticisms of government policy, yet these posts have been left up for days.&nbsp;

It's because these articles are written in Cantonese, a language that originated in Guangdong, a province that borders Guangzhou, and that tens of millions of people use throughout Southern China.

Speakers of Mandarin, China's official language and the one the government prefers, may find it challenging to understand, particularly in its written and frequently sophisticated colloquial forms.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bitcoin-has-the-fifth-worst-collapse-in-financial-history-report-533494">Bitcoin plunges, records the fifth-biggest collapse in financial history: Report</a>

Mass Covid testing procedures in Guangdong prompted a number of angry Cantonese remarks that managed to get past censors in September of this year, according to the US-based independent media monitoring group China Digital Times.

“Perhaps because Weibo’s content censorship system has difficulty recognizing the spelling of Cantonese characters, many posts in spicy, bold and straightforward language ​​still survive. But if the same content is written in Mandarin, it is likely to be blocked or deleted,” said the organization, which is affiliated with the University of California, Berkeley.

Cantonese now seems to be providing a channel for more subdued protests for individuals tired of China's ongoing zero-Covid lockdowns.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Chinese citizens in Guangzhou, a 19 million-person manufacturing powerhouse, are venting their frustration after their city became the centre of a widespread Covid outbreak, forcing yet another round of lockdown measures, but it is difficult to express open criticism on China's heavily censored internet.

Chinese citizens in Guangzhou, a 19 million-person manufacturing powerhouse, are venting their frustration after their city became the centre of a widespread Covid outbreak, forcing yet another round of lockdown measures, but it is difficult to express open criticism on China's heavily censored internet. One resident wrote on Weibo, China's restricted version of Twitter, on Monday, "We had to lock down in April, and then again in November," before sprinkling the message with slurs, including references to the mothers of officials - “The government hasn’t provided subsidies – do you think my rent doesn’t cost money?” Such colourful posts are noteworthy not only because they reflect the mounting anger of the public at China's unyielding zero-Covid policy. The government's army of censors would often quickly remove such scathing criticisms of government policy, yet these posts have been left up for days. It's because these articles are written in Cantonese, a language that originated in Guangdong, a province that borders Guangzhou, and that tens of millions of people use throughout Southern China. Speakers of Mandarin, China's official language and the one the government prefers, may find it challenging to understand, particularly in its written and frequently sophisticated colloquial forms. Also Read: Bitcoin plunges, records the fifth-biggest collapse in financial history: Report Mass Covid testing procedures in Guangdong prompted a number of angry Cantonese remarks that managed to get past censors in September of this year, according to the US-based independent media monitoring group China Digital Times. “Perhaps because Weibo’s content censorship system has difficulty recognizing the spelling of Cantonese characters, many posts in spicy, bold and straightforward language still survive. But if the same content is written in Mandarin, it is likely to be blocked or deleted,” said the organization, which is affiliated with the University of California, Berkeley. Cantonese now seems to be providing a channel for more subdued protests for individuals tired of China's ongoing zero-Covid lockdowns. (with inputs from agencies)

Chinese are using Cantonese to criticise zero-Covid amid heavy censorship

China's health authority reported a jump in COVID-19 infections, climbing to 7,475 on November 7 from 5,496 the day before and the highest since May 1.

New COVID-19 cases climb to 7,000 in China

China's strict zero-Covid rules have been in place for more than two years and during this time, many cases of the troubles citizens have faced due to them have come to light. Recent reports suggested that the disruptive rules may soon be taken down. However, on Saturday health officials dashed this hope and said that China would "unswervingly" stick to the policy.

The announcement as per the Guardian comes after days of speculation around the rules that have disrupted economic growth and day-to-day life in China.

Watch |&nbsp;China sticks to its ‘Zero Covid’ policy, insists it being key to protecting people’s lives

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As per reports currently, there are roughly 200 lockdowns in place across China.

Hu Xiang, disease control officer with China's national health commission, said Wednesday that the nation's restrictions were the most sensible and efficient course of action.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/3-years-of-covid-was-his-entire-life-in-china-child-dies-due-to-lockdown-rules-father-offered-hush-money-530653">'3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money</a>

Talking to reporters, she said, "We should adhere to the principle of putting people and lives first, and the broader strategy of preventing imports from outside and internal rebounds."

This, as just a few days back as per a Reuters report, a former Chinese disease control official during a conference claimed that substantial changes to the country's "dynamic-Zero" COVID policy are expected in the coming months.

Speaking at a session titled "China's Exit Strategy from Zero-COVID", Zeng Guang, former chief epidemiologist at the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, said that "the situation is changing now and China's 'dynamic zero' will also undergo major changes. Substantive changes will happen soon."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-after-hitting-a-six-month-high-china-reports-over-3000-covid-cases-531440">COVID-19: Day after hitting a six-month high, China reports over 3,800 new cases</a>

Reportedly, a three-year-old boy's death in a residential compound that was under quarantine had fueled growing dissatisfaction with the anti-virus regulations. This had also sparked rumours of policy changes.&nbsp;

With investors and the general public latching on to any signals of change, last week's talk of easing had boosted stock markets in China, and by Wednesday the MSCI China Index had gained $450 billion.

Thursday saw the country report a six-month high of 4,045 new infections. A day later the number fell a bit to 3,837.&nbsp;

China's strict zero-Covid rules have been in place for more than two years and during this time, many cases of the troubles citizens have faced due to them have come to light.

China's strict zero-Covid rules have been in place for more than two years and during this time, many cases of the troubles citizens have faced due to them have come to light. Recent reports suggested that the disruptive rules may soon be taken down. However, on Saturday health officials dashed this hope and said that China would "unswervingly" stick to the policy. The announcement as per the Guardian comes after days of speculation around the rules that have disrupted economic growth and day-to-day life in China. Watch | China sticks to its ‘Zero Covid’ policy, insists it being key to protecting people’s lives As per reports currently, there are roughly 200 lockdowns in place across China. Hu Xiang, disease control officer with China's national health commission, said Wednesday that the nation's restrictions were the most sensible and efficient course of action. Also read | '3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money Talking to reporters, she said, "We should adhere to the principle of putting people and lives first, and the broader strategy of preventing imports from outside and internal rebounds." This, as just a few days back as per a Reuters report, a former Chinese disease control official during a conference claimed that substantial changes to the country's "dynamic-Zero" COVID policy are expected in the coming months. Speaking at a session titled "China's Exit Strategy from Zero-COVID", Zeng Guang, former chief epidemiologist at the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, said that "the situation is changing now and China's 'dynamic zero' will also undergo major changes. Substantive changes will happen soon." Also read | COVID-19: Day after hitting a six-month high, China reports over 3,800 new cases Reportedly, a three-year-old boy's death in a residential compound that was under quarantine had fueled growing dissatisfaction with the anti-virus regulations. This had also sparked rumours of policy changes. With investors and the general public latching on to any signals of change, last week's talk of easing had boosted stock markets in China, and by Wednesday the MSCI China Index had gained $450 billion. Thursday saw the country report a six-month high of 4,045 new infections. A day later the number fell a bit to 3,837.

No relief for the people: China to 'unswervingly' stick to its zero-COVID policy, says health official

The death of a three-year-old in China has sparked outrage over social media after the boy's father blamed the nation's strict COVID-19 policies for "indirectly" killing his son.

Official records state that the child died of carbon monoxide poisoning, however, speaking to Reuters, the father Tuo Shilei said, "I personally think that he was indirectly killed."&nbsp;

Shilei recalled that around midday on Tuesday, his wife slipped and fell, affected by gas fumes while cooking. Soon, he noticed that his young son too has been affected.

Watch | Gravitas: Chinese workers jump fences to escape lockdown

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They are residents of Gansu province, which has for months been under lockdown.

He tried to call for an ambulance but was unable to get through. In just 30 minutes Wenxuan's condition worsened and after performing CPR Tuo rushed him to his community compound's entrance. However, due to the strict lockdown, staff at the gate didn't allow him to go through telling him to call neighbourhood authorities or an ambulance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frustrated-chinese-turn-to-popular-indian-song-to-mock-beijings-zero-covid-policy-530094">'Jimmy Jimmy': Chinese turn to popular Indian song to mock zero-Covid policy</a>

Faced with the barrier, the frantic father crashed through the gate, and thanks to some "kind-hearted" people got a taxi to the hospital. However, on the way, they faced another checkpoint, which caused further delay and the child died.

"There was the COVID situation at the checkpoint. The staff did not act, and then ignored and avoided the problem, and then we were blocked by another checkpoint," said Tuo, adding, "No help was provided. This series of events caused the death of my child."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-foxconn-denies-reports-of-staff-deaths-calls-viral-video-malicious-530220">Did Foxconn staff die due to Covid lockdown? Video claims so, firm issues denial</a>

On China's Twitter-like Weibo platform, the incident and the hashtag "Three years of COVID was his entire life" has created a storm&nbsp;and 380 million people read what happened before posts were taken down.

Tuo claims that he was contacted by someone claiming to be a retired local official who offered him 100,000 yuan ($13,743) to keep mum about his son's death. However, the father said he rejected the offer, adding that he demands an explanation for his toddler's death.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The death of a three-year-old in China has sparked outrage over social media after the boy's father blamed the nation's strict COVID-19 policies for "indirectly" killing his son.

The death of a three-year-old in China has sparked outrage over social media after the boy's father blamed the nation's strict COVID-19 policies for "indirectly" killing his son. Official records state that the child died of carbon monoxide poisoning, however, speaking to Reuters, the father Tuo Shilei said, "I personally think that he was indirectly killed." Shilei recalled that around midday on Tuesday, his wife slipped and fell, affected by gas fumes while cooking. Soon, he noticed that his young son too has been affected. Watch | Gravitas: Chinese workers jump fences to escape lockdown They are residents of Gansu province, which has for months been under lockdown. He tried to call for an ambulance but was unable to get through. In just 30 minutes Wenxuan's condition worsened and after performing CPR Tuo rushed him to his community compound's entrance. However, due to the strict lockdown, staff at the gate didn't allow him to go through telling him to call neighbourhood authorities or an ambulance. Also read | 'Jimmy Jimmy': Chinese turn to popular Indian song to mock zero-Covid policy Faced with the barrier, the frantic father crashed through the gate, and thanks to some "kind-hearted" people got a taxi to the hospital. However, on the way, they faced another checkpoint, which caused further delay and the child died. "There was the COVID situation at the checkpoint. The staff did not act, and then ignored and avoided the problem, and then we were blocked by another checkpoint," said Tuo, adding, "No help was provided. This series of events caused the death of my child." Also read | Did Foxconn staff die due to Covid lockdown? Video claims so, firm issues denial On China's Twitter-like Weibo platform, the incident and the hashtag "Three years of COVID was his entire life" has created a storm and 380 million people read what happened before posts were taken down. Tuo claims that he was contacted by someone claiming to be a retired local official who offered him 100,000 yuan ($13,743) to keep mum about his son's death. However, the father said he rejected the offer, adding that he demands an explanation for his toddler's death. (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.

'3 years of COVID was his entire life': In China, child dies due to lockdown rules, father offered hush money

Large-scale protests reportedly erupted in Tibet’s capital Lhasa against China’s draconian zero-Covid policy, which has been in place for more than three months.

According to reports, the agitation broke out on Wednesday afternoon, with hundreds of people gathering on the streets, and stretched till the next day.

Several videos have appeared on social media, showing people marching on the streets. Since these clips were in mandarin, it was difficult to decipher what they were saying.

Another video showed officials blocking hundreds of people who have assembled on the streets, with an official on the loudspeaker asking them to "please be understanding and to go back", according to BBC.

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今天26日，西藏首都拉萨发生大批汉人抗议封控清零政策。抗议者和大白，警察发生冲突。目前不清楚是否有人被抓。 <a href="https://t.co/zjUHuTw6QB">pic.twitter.com/zjUHuTw6QB</a>
— 萨格尔扎西 SakarTashi (@P9Wb1kMpj484jEW) <a href="https://twitter.com/P9Wb1kMpj484jEW/status/1585376455957319680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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A rare protest in Lhasa against a harsh Covid-19 lockdown. Sources told RFA that Tibetan protesters warned Chinese officials against “setting off a fire” if Covid restrictions are not lifted. <a href="https://t.co/oc5DI0Ioje">pic.twitter.com/oc5DI0Ioje</a>
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Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported citing sources that the protesters warned Chinese officials that if the Covid lockdown measures aren’t lifted, they would "set off a fire".

Though it is unclear what they mean by that, RFA claimed that they were alluding to the 2009 incident in which people immolated themselves while protesting against the repressive Chinese occupation.

Taken aback by the sporadic protest, the officials have deployed additional forces across Tibet over fears that the tussle between civilians and police officers could turn violent.

The Covid lockdown began in early August in Lhasa after number of cases started to climb.

However, Lhasa residents have been complaining that the sudden lockdown didn’t leave them enough to time to prepare, leaving some residents short on essential items.

The BBC, which claimed to have seen multiple posts on Douyin—China's TikTok version—reported that people in the clips complained that they were trapped in Lhasa.

"Today is the 77th day of the lockdown in Lhasa. I don't know how long it will continue to be like this. I [cant find] hope. Can you understand... how hard it is for migrant workers?" the post said.

"We haven't had any income for three months - but expenses have not been reduced even by a penny. My friends in Lhasa - how long can you go on like this?" said another post.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Large-scale protests reportedly erupted in Tibet’s capital Lhasa against China’s draconian zero-Covid policy, which has been in place for more than three months.

Large-scale protests reportedly erupted in Tibet’s capital Lhasa against China’s draconian zero-Covid policy, which has been in place for more than three months. According to reports, the agitation broke out on Wednesday afternoon, with hundreds of people gathering on the streets, and stretched till the next day. Several videos have appeared on social media, showing people marching on the streets. Since these clips were in mandarin, it was difficult to decipher what they were saying. Another video showed officials blocking hundreds of people who have assembled on the streets, with an official on the loudspeaker asking them to "please be understanding and to go back", according to BBC. 今天26日，西藏首都拉萨发生大批汉人抗议封控清零政策。抗议者和大白，警察发生冲突。目前不清楚是否有人被抓。 pic.twitter.com/zjUHuTw6QB — 萨格尔扎西 SakarTashi (@P9Wb1kMpj484jEW) October 26, 2022 × A rare protest in Lhasa against a harsh Covid-19 lockdown. Sources told RFA that Tibetan protesters warned Chinese officials against “setting off a fire” if Covid restrictions are not lifted. pic.twitter.com/oc5DI0Ioje — Radio Free Asia (@RadioFreeAsia) October 26, 2022 × Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported citing sources that the protesters warned Chinese officials that if the Covid lockdown measures aren’t lifted, they would "set off a fire". Though it is unclear what they mean by that, RFA claimed that they were alluding to the 2009 incident in which people immolated themselves while protesting against the repressive Chinese occupation. Taken aback by the sporadic protest, the officials have deployed additional forces across Tibet over fears that the tussle between civilians and police officers could turn violent. The Covid lockdown began in early August in Lhasa after number of cases started to climb. However, Lhasa residents have been complaining that the sudden lockdown didn’t leave them enough to time to prepare, leaving some residents short on essential items. The BBC, which claimed to have seen multiple posts on Douyin—China's TikTok version—reported that people in the clips complained that they were trapped in Lhasa. "Today is the 77th day of the lockdown in Lhasa. I don't know how long it will continue to be like this. I [cant find] hope. Can you understand... how hard it is for migrant workers?" the post said. "We haven't had any income for three months - but expenses have not been reduced even by a penny. My friends in Lhasa - how long can you go on like this?" said another post. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Angry residents in Tibet’s Lhasa capital protest against Beijing’s zero-Covid policy

China's Zero-COVID policy has dampened the holiday spirit. The country saw its lowest holiday spends in seven years. Priyanka Sharma tells you what's happening in China

WION Fineprint | China's holiday spending plunges amid COVID restrictions

As China gears up for its party congress, President Xi Jinping is facing one of the worst headwinds for the Asian giant's economy. As the global economy faces the looming danger of recession, China is also slowing down. The nation narrowly avoided contraction in the April to June quarter. With figures for July- September quarter expected next week, it is predicted that Beijing's goal of a 5.5 per cent annual growth rate will remain unmet. Ahead of the Communist Party congress, officials too have downplayed the need to meet the target.

As per a BBC report, economists are not expecting any growth. While the nation's economy might have&nbsp;escaped the steep inflation plaguing the US and the UK, it is facing its own slew of problems. Here's how China's economy is in trouble:

1. A property market in crisis

China's property market, which accounts for one-third of the nation's GDP, is facing its biggest crisis, with the situation going from bad to worse. A faltering, debt-ridden real estate market has led to "ghost cities" with housing that could accommodate more than 75 million people sitting empty.

To revive the slumping market, Beijing as per reports has undertaken a "build, pause, demolish, repeat" policy.

As per a Telegraph report, in recent years approximately three billion square metres of housing in the world's second-largest economy have been paused and/or demolished.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/economy/build-pause-demolish-repeat-china-to-demolish-buildings-that-could-accommodate-75-million-people-515567">'Build, pause, demolish, repeat': China to demolish buildings that could accommodate 75 million people</a>

2. Zero-Covid: A China-specific economic slowdown

When the globe was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, governments around the world took steps to protect their citizens and prevent fatalities. China's "Zero-Covid" strategy to combat the coronavirus has left its economy crippled.

Stringent lockdowns in several cities including the manufacturing hubs like Shenzen and Tianjin have had an incredibly detrimental effect.&nbsp;

As per Reuters, while exports remained a major driver this year, China's Assistant Commerce Minister Li Fei has warned that the nation's foreign trade faces unfavourable factors like a weakening external demand.

Snap lockdowns have further dampened consumer enthusiasm and business confidence.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 50 million homes are empty in China

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3. What the government is(n't) doing:

Even after 2.5 years of Zero-Covid, authorities have done little to ease covid curbs.&nbsp;

While Beijing announced a 1 trillion yuan ($203 billion) plan to boost small businesses, infrastructure and the real estate market in August, as per BBC, so much more could be done.&nbsp;

Investment in infrastructure, a loosening of credit requirements for homebuyers, builders, and local government, as well as tax cuts for households, are some things the administration can do.

4. The dismal state of the job market:

A slowing economy owing to the stringent Covid curbs, a huge number of graduates and a dearth of prospects are plaguing China's job market.

The nation's slowing economy has left millions of youngsters facing fierce competition for an ever-slimming raft of jobs and facing an increasingly uncertain future, reports AFP.

As per official data in July, one in five young people in Chinese cities was out of work. This is more than three times the national average and the highest recorded in four years, since January 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-all-set-to-usurp-mao-era-chairman-post-for-self-at-upcoming-party-congress-522252" hreflang="en">China’s Xi all set to usurp Mao-era ‘Chairman’ post at upcoming party congress: Report</a>

5. Climate woes:

Climate change too is negatively affecting China's economy. In August, the nation's central belt faced a severe heatwave, followed by a drought. High demand for air conditioning caused the electricity grid to be overwhelmed, impacting China's industry.

6. Falling investment:

With the Covid curbs already lasting 2.5 years, foreign businesses in China have been hit. In September, the European Union's Chamber of Commerce warned that the nation's Zero-covid policy is crippling European businesses.

It reported that the "massive uncertainty" surrounding curbs have impacted 75 per cent of its member's operations. The situation has prompted nearly a quarter of European firms to consider a shift of current and future investments out of China added the Chamber. This is the highest percentage in the past decade.

Nearly 11 million graduates entered China's bleak job market this summer, with the economy growing at 0.4 per cent in the second quarter, the weakest in two years.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As China gears up for its party congress, President Xi Jinping is facing one of the worst headwinds for the Asian giant's economy. As the global economy faces the looming danger of recession, China is also slowing down.

As China gears up for its party congress, President Xi Jinping is facing one of the worst headwinds for the Asian giant's economy. As the global economy faces the looming danger of recession, China is also slowing down. The nation narrowly avoided contraction in the April to June quarter. With figures for July- September quarter expected next week, it is predicted that Beijing's goal of a 5.5 per cent annual growth rate will remain unmet. Ahead of the Communist Party congress, officials too have downplayed the need to meet the target. As per a BBC report, economists are not expecting any growth. While the nation's economy might have escaped the steep inflation plaguing the US and the UK, it is facing its own slew of problems. Here's how China's economy is in trouble: 1. A property market in crisis China's property market, which accounts for one-third of the nation's GDP, is facing its biggest crisis, with the situation going from bad to worse. A faltering, debt-ridden real estate market has led to "ghost cities" with housing that could accommodate more than 75 million people sitting empty. To revive the slumping market, Beijing as per reports has undertaken a "build, pause, demolish, repeat" policy. As per a Telegraph report, in recent years approximately three billion square metres of housing in the world's second-largest economy have been paused and/or demolished. Also read | 'Build, pause, demolish, repeat': China to demolish buildings that could accommodate 75 million people 2. Zero-Covid: A China-specific economic slowdown When the globe was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, governments around the world took steps to protect their citizens and prevent fatalities. China's "Zero-Covid" strategy to combat the coronavirus has left its economy crippled. Stringent lockdowns in several cities including the manufacturing hubs like Shenzen and Tianjin have had an incredibly detrimental effect. As per Reuters, while exports remained a major driver this year, China's Assistant Commerce Minister Li Fei has warned that the nation's foreign trade faces unfavourable factors like a weakening external demand. Snap lockdowns have further dampened consumer enthusiasm and business confidence. Watch | Gravitas: 50 million homes are empty in China 3. What the government is(n't) doing: Even after 2.5 years of Zero-Covid, authorities have done little to ease covid curbs. While Beijing announced a 1 trillion yuan ($203 billion) plan to boost small businesses, infrastructure and the real estate market in August, as per BBC, so much more could be done. Investment in infrastructure, a loosening of credit requirements for homebuyers, builders, and local government, as well as tax cuts for households, are some things the administration can do. 4. The dismal state of the job market: A slowing economy owing to the stringent Covid curbs, a huge number of graduates and a dearth of prospects are plaguing China's job market. The nation's slowing economy has left millions of youngsters facing fierce competition for an ever-slimming raft of jobs and facing an increasingly uncertain future, reports AFP. As per official data in July, one in five young people in Chinese cities was out of work. This is more than three times the national average and the highest recorded in four years, since January 2018. Also read | China’s Xi all set to usurp Mao-era ‘Chairman’ post at upcoming party congress: Report 5. Climate woes: Climate change too is negatively affecting China's economy. In August, the nation's central belt faced a severe heatwave, followed by a drought. High demand for air conditioning caused the electricity grid to be overwhelmed, impacting China's industry. 6. Falling investment: With the Covid curbs already lasting 2.5 years, foreign businesses in China have been hit. In September, the European Union's Chamber of Commerce warned that the nation's Zero-covid policy is crippling European businesses. It reported that the "massive uncertainty" surrounding curbs have impacted 75 per cent of its member's operations. The situation has prompted nearly a quarter of European firms to consider a shift of current and future investments out of China added the Chamber. This is the highest percentage in the past decade. Nearly 11 million graduates entered China's bleak job market this summer, with the economy growing at 0.4 per cent in the second quarter, the weakest in two years. (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.

Zero-Covid, a crumbling real estate market and more: Chinese economy and the challenges it faces

A significant business lobby said on Wednesday that China's "inflexible" and "inconsistent" zero-Covid policy is harming European companies' operations in the nation and that their presence "can no longer be taken for granted".&nbsp;

The report from the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China is the most recent indication from the international business community that Beijing's strict anti-virus restrictions are hurting the second-largest economy in the world and isolating it on the global scene.

China is the last significant economy committed to a strategy of stopping virus outbreaks as they start, using a combination of immediate lockdowns, extensive testing, and brief quarantines.&nbsp;

President Xi Jinping has deemed the strategy China's most "economic and effective" path forward, despite causing business closures and upsetting global supply lines. Officials have not yet suggested when the limits will be relaxed.&nbsp;

In a position paper, the European Chamber, a collection of more than 1,800 European businesses operating in China, said that zero-Covid and its "massive uncertainty" had a "negative&nbsp;impact" on 75 per cent&nbsp;of the operations of its members.

The organisation warned that ideology appeared to be "trumping the economy" and described Xi's hallmark programme as "inflexible and inconsistently implemented." It said that China's economic environment would remain unpredictable as long as the possibility of lockdowns persisted.&nbsp;

The circumstance, it was claimed, had led to the biggest proportion of businesses in the past 10 years thinking about moving current or planned investments out of China.

Despite China's substantial development potential, the research stated that "the extent of European firms' engagement can no longer be taken for granted." China shortened the statutory quarantine period for foreign visitors in June from 21 to 10 days, but there are still many obstacles to travel, including a dearth of planes and exorbitant ticket rates.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-new-island-formed-in-pacific-ocean-as-home-reef-erupts-eight-times-in-48-hours-518359">Watch: New island formed in Pacific ocean as Home reef erupts eight times in 48 hours</a>

According to the paper, the nearly complete closure of the nation's borders since 2020 has sped up an "exodus" of European citizens and made those who remain more alone than before. "The business environment will continue to become more challenging," it added if Beijing sticks with the approach.

The report's prologue was written by Joerg Wuttke, the president of the European Chamber of Commerce, who stated that "the rest of the world has largely resumed pre-pandemic levels of "normality," but China remains reluctant&nbsp;to open its doors." European companies "need China to fulfil its huge economic potential", he added.&nbsp;

Only 0.4% of China's GDP grew in the second quarter as supply chains were disrupted and businesses shut down due to viral restrictions in large portions of the country. According to analysts, the nation is likely to fall far short of its 5.5 per cent annual growth goal.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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A significant business lobby said on Wednesday that China's "inflexible" and "inconsistent" zero-Covid policy is harming European companies' operations in the nation and that their presence "can no longer be taken for granted".

A significant business lobby said on Wednesday that China's "inflexible" and "inconsistent" zero-Covid policy is harming European companies' operations in the nation and that their presence "can no longer be taken for granted". The report from the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China is the most recent indication from the international business community that Beijing's strict anti-virus restrictions are hurting the second-largest economy in the world and isolating it on the global scene. China is the last significant economy committed to a strategy of stopping virus outbreaks as they start, using a combination of immediate lockdowns, extensive testing, and brief quarantines. President Xi Jinping has deemed the strategy China's most "economic and effective" path forward, despite causing business closures and upsetting global supply lines. Officials have not yet suggested when the limits will be relaxed. In a position paper, the European Chamber, a collection of more than 1,800 European businesses operating in China, said that zero-Covid and its "massive uncertainty" had a "negative impact" on 75 per cent of the operations of its members. The organisation warned that ideology appeared to be "trumping the economy" and described Xi's hallmark programme as "inflexible and inconsistently implemented." It said that China's economic environment would remain unpredictable as long as the possibility of lockdowns persisted. The circumstance, it was claimed, had led to the biggest proportion of businesses in the past 10 years thinking about moving current or planned investments out of China. Despite China's substantial development potential, the research stated that "the extent of European firms' engagement can no longer be taken for granted." China shortened the statutory quarantine period for foreign visitors in June from 21 to 10 days, but there are still many obstacles to travel, including a dearth of planes and exorbitant ticket rates. Also Read: Watch: New island formed in Pacific ocean as Home reef erupts eight times in 48 hours According to the paper, the nearly complete closure of the nation's borders since 2020 has sped up an "exodus" of European citizens and made those who remain more alone than before. "The business environment will continue to become more challenging," it added if Beijing sticks with the approach. The report's prologue was written by Joerg Wuttke, the president of the European Chamber of Commerce, who stated that "the rest of the world has largely resumed pre-pandemic levels of "normality," but China remains reluctant to open its doors." European companies "need China to fulfil its huge economic potential", he added. Only 0.4% of China's GDP grew in the second quarter as supply chains were disrupted and businesses shut down due to viral restrictions in large portions of the country. According to analysts, the nation is likely to fall far short of its 5.5 per cent annual growth goal. (with inputs from agencies)

China's 'Zero-Covid' policy crippling European businesses in the country: Report

Chinese people under lockdown complaining about food and medicine shortages have prompted the authorities to censure their desperate pleas on social media platforms as the country’s draconian ‘zero-Covid’ policy takes a toll.

At least 30 regions are under partial or full lockdowns where tens of millions of people have been ordered to stay at home.

According to the Guardian, which has cited a leaked directive published by the China Digital Times (CDT), censors have been ordered to flood social media with trivial posts about Xinjiang— a region under lockdown for over a month—to dilute complaints of food and medication shortages.

“There are no subject matter restrictions. Content may include domestic life, daily parenting, cooking, or personal moods. All internet commentary personnel should post once an hour (twice in total), but not in rapid succession! Repeat: not in rapid succession!” the directive said, according to CDT’s translation.

Authorities have been scurrying to contain local outbreaks ahead of the Communist Party of China's Congress in October.

China's zero-Covid policy requires strict lockdowns, even if just a handful of cases are reported. On Monday, China recorded 949 new Covid cases, the BBC reported.

During the 40-day lockdown, people in Xinjiang’s Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture near the border with Kazakhstan, desperate residents have been making a fervent appeal for help on social media,

One post showed a video of an emotional Uyghur man saying his three children had not eaten for three days.

In Ili, the capital of northwest Yining city, a shared online document of over 300 urgent requests for food, medicine and sanitary pads went viral.

"I'm out of money to buy supplies. My wife is pregnant and we have two kids. We are running out of gas. My wife needs a medical check," said a resident.

The region houses Han Chinese, Kazakh and Uyghur residents.

Similarly, in south-western Guizhou province, officials locked down an area of the provincial capital Guiyang without giving a warning, leaving 500,000 residents stranded at home without any chance to prepare to stock basic supplies.

According to the Guardian, lifts were switched off in buildings to stop people from leaving.

The reports of Chinese people struggling for food and aid come a month after a long-awaited UN report which accused Beijing of "serious human rights violations" against Uyghurs and other mainly Muslim minorities in Xinjiang.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Chinese people under lockdown complaining about food and medicine shortages have prompted the authorities to censure their desperate pleas on social media platforms as the country’s draconian ‘zero-Covid’ policy takes a toll.

Chinese people under lockdown complaining about food and medicine shortages have prompted the authorities to censure their desperate pleas on social media platforms as the country’s draconian ‘zero-Covid’ policy takes a toll. At least 30 regions are under partial or full lockdowns where tens of millions of people have been ordered to stay at home. According to the Guardian, which has cited a leaked directive published by the China Digital Times (CDT), censors have been ordered to flood social media with trivial posts about Xinjiang— a region under lockdown for over a month—to dilute complaints of food and medication shortages. “There are no subject matter restrictions. Content may include domestic life, daily parenting, cooking, or personal moods. All internet commentary personnel should post once an hour (twice in total), but not in rapid succession! Repeat: not in rapid succession!” the directive said, according to CDT’s translation. Authorities have been scurrying to contain local outbreaks ahead of the Communist Party of China's Congress in October. China's zero-Covid policy requires strict lockdowns, even if just a handful of cases are reported. On Monday, China recorded 949 new Covid cases, the BBC reported. During the 40-day lockdown, people in Xinjiang’s Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture near the border with Kazakhstan, desperate residents have been making a fervent appeal for help on social media, One post showed a video of an emotional Uyghur man saying his three children had not eaten for three days. In Ili, the capital of northwest Yining city, a shared online document of over 300 urgent requests for food, medicine and sanitary pads went viral. "I'm out of money to buy supplies. My wife is pregnant and we have two kids. We are running out of gas. My wife needs a medical check," said a resident. The region houses Han Chinese, Kazakh and Uyghur residents. Similarly, in south-western Guizhou province, officials locked down an area of the provincial capital Guiyang without giving a warning, leaving 500,000 residents stranded at home without any chance to prepare to stock basic supplies. According to the Guardian, lifts were switched off in buildings to stop people from leaving. The reports of Chinese people struggling for food and aid come a month after a long-awaited UN report which accused Beijing of "serious human rights violations" against Uyghurs and other mainly Muslim minorities in Xinjiang. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Covid lockdown: China censuring people’s pleas on social media amid food and medicine shortages

Over 100 million citizens are believed to be under pandemic restrictions in China. In the name of Zero Covid, people in China are being subjected to the same level of surveillance and authoritarian excesses as Xinjiang. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Mainland China is getting the "Xinjiang Treatment"

A silent protest is underway in Beijing. Chinese citizens are demanding an end to Zero Covid. A mass testing booth was recently defaced with the message: "give me liberty or give me death". Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Chinese citizens demand "liberty"

Gravitas: Chinese citizens demand "liberty" from Zero Covid

Chinese President Xi Jinping refuses to withdraw Zero Covid. His obsession with policy has sparked protests. Will Zero Covid weaken Xi Jinping? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: How Zero Covid is weakening Xi Jinping

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