02:59China: 'Customers are worried' - Shanghai locals no longer required to scan COVID venue codes
Shanghai locals had a mixed reaction on Wednesday to the lifting of some COVID restrictions, with venue codes no longer being scanned before entering public places.
"I’m quite confused, that’s why I’m wearing a mask right now cause I’m scared of being infected. But overall, I guess it’s a measure to be implemented since it has become more convenient to live in the city," said Nikita Shilov, an overseas student from Russia, who is studying economics at Fudan University.
Codes will still be used for special areas such as senior care centres, hospitals, medical institutions, and schools.
"With the lift of the policy, we feel more relieved. Scanning location code used to be bothersome, a kind of obstacle that got removed," said fruit vendor, Gu Yuefen.
The change, which came into effect on December 13, comes as China further relaxes its COVID-19 rules.
"Now the policy is lifted, no more scanning code, but we are having fewer customers, so are other shops along this street," admitted Zhang Jianming. "Customers are worried, and they don’t leave home."
The easing of restrictions came amid rising economic and social costs as well as widespread protests last month. However, many cities are now experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases.
02:59Shanghai locals had a mixed reaction on Wednesday to the lifting of some COVID restrictions, with venue codes no longer being scanned before entering public places.
"I’m quite confused, that’s why I’m wearing a mask right now cause I’m scared of being infected. But overall, I guess it’s a measure to be implemented since it has become more convenient to live in the city," said Nikita Shilov, an overseas student from Russia, who is studying economics at Fudan University.
Codes will still be used for special areas such as senior care centres, hospitals, medical institutions, and schools.
"With the lift of the policy, we feel more relieved. Scanning location code used to be bothersome, a kind of obstacle that got removed," said fruit vendor, Gu Yuefen.
The change, which came into effect on December 13, comes as China further relaxes its COVID-19 rules.
"Now the policy is lifted, no more scanning code, but we are having fewer customers, so are other shops along this street," admitted Zhang Jianming. "Customers are worried, and they don’t leave home."
The easing of restrictions came amid rising economic and social costs as well as widespread protests last month. However, many cities are now experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases.