China’s transition towards ‘living with Covid-19’ is happening faster than local health experts anticipated when the phased easing of restrictions started in November. It brings forward the onset of a recovery phase to as early as March. The number of infections peaked in January, based on Peking University estimates. The consequent higher immunity levels among the general population mean that secondary waves should have a lesser hit in terms of the number of severe cases, as was the experience elsewhere. China has made domestic demand expansion – including consumption – the top policy goal this year, whereas last ... (full story)