China makes sudden policy shift on zero-Covid, but ‘no clear picture’ of what’s next

China has made a major move away from its zero-Covid policy, dismantling mass testing and quarantine requirements and reducing the use of the health code system after protests against the controls.

The sudden policy shift has been welcomed by foreign investors and raised hopes that borders will soon reopen to international travellers – though officials on Wednesday would not say when that might happen.

But with restrictions easing, China now faces the prospect of the virus sweeping through the population and uncertainty over whether the healthcare system is prepared for a potential surge in cases.