Coronavirus: China’s consumption expected to be ‘dismal’ over Labour Day holiday as Omicron wave rolls on
- Analysts have made gloomy predictions for consumption over the Labour Day holiday, as health fears and Covid-19 restrictions weigh on domestic travel
- Omicron outbreaks and China’s zero-Covid policy, which has resulted in lockdowns across the country, have hit the services sector and consumption hard
Consumption is likely to remain weak over China’s Labour Day holiday, industry insiders say, as Covid-19 lockdowns and transport restrictions disrupt travel plans and holiday spending.
The hardline policy, which relies on stringent lockdowns, mass testing and quarantine in government facilities, has scuttled Labour Day holiday plans for many between April 30 to May 4.
Ryan Duan, a 24 year old living in Beijing, planned to visit Tibet over the holiday break, but has been put off by its strict entry rules.
06:13
China’s harsh Covid restrictions leave thousands of migrant workers in limbo
Visitors cannot enter the autonomous region if they have a risk alert on their health code, which is recorded on a health-tracking app required to access almost anywhere in China, from shops to taxis.
Fearful he will be denied entry or quarantined when he arrives, Duan has cancelled his trip.