China’s zero-Covid policy aids economy, limits ‘destructive power’ of lifting curbs, watchdog says
- Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) says China’s existing policies have proved cost-effective by isolating affected communities
- China has maintained a zero-tolerance approach, but some analysts have forecast a decline in economic growth this year
China’s “dynamic clearance” strategy aimed at minimising coronavirus infections is boosting the economy, not undermining it, the country’s top anti-corruption body said on Friday in response to concerns about the prospects for growth this year.
But the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), the ruling Communist Party’s corruption watchdog, said in an article posted on its website that existing policies had proved cost-effective by isolating affected communities and allowing others to operate normally.
China eyeing new strategies in zero-Covid policy as economic pressure mounts
It said the shift to a more “precise” and targeted approach to locking down outbreaks had “reduced the impact on economic and social development”.
CCDI said the “destructive power” unleashed by the easing of restrictions had become very evident in other countries, including the United States.
Overseas experts are divided about the impact that a sustained zero-Covid approach will have on China’s economy, and on its ambitions to switch to low-carbon growth.
“It means a recovery that’s more driven by industry and investment and less driven by consumption and services, which are a cleaner form of growth.”
ANZ said this week that China’s supply chain problems were not caused by its zero-Covid strategy and had originated overseas.
But although China’s approach was “not as restrictive as perceived”, with its more localised measures helping to reduce the economic impact, service sectors continued to struggle, the bank said in a note.