China — Opinion

China's "Zero Covid" Reaches Breaking Point

Despite President Xi's smooth transition into his historic third term, the people appear to be bracing for a showdown with the leadership.

, and tippinsights Editorial Board

November 29, 2022 . 7:45 AM

3 min read

Police form a cordon during a protest against China's strict zero COVID measures on November 27, 2022 in Beijing, China. Protesters took to the streets in multiple Chinese cities after a deadly apartment fire in Xinjiang province sparked a national outcry as many blamed COVID restrictions for the deaths. (Photo by Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

There was hope that President Xi Jinping was pushing the 'zero-covid' policy until he could secure his record third term. Once those formalities were complete, China, it was assumed, would slowly open from the pandemic-induced lockdowns and return to normal. The citizens and industries worldwide that rely on Chinese-produced goods looked forward to those lenient days.