Mainland Border News Today

China’s reopening has fuelled optimism over global growth as the world’s second-largest economy demonstrates its resilience and begins firing on all cylinders again. The unleashing of pent-up travel demand and consumer spending over the Lunar New Year holiday is a powerful rebuttal of economic doom.

The willingness of firms to reopen offices here, the expected return of residents who fled harsh pandemic restrictions and low interest rates are just some of the reasons sentiment is turning positive after access to Hong Kong was restored.

Researchers make estimate based on 10,000 residents tested daily.

China needs help as it struggles with Covid-19, and Hong Kong can play a central role in its recovery by offering a financial lifeline. But this will only be possible if the city abandons its own zero-Covid straitjacket by dropping all policies – except community vaccination.

Readers discuss the plight of Hong Kong’s performers, the need for clear goals from the incoming John Lee administration, progress on workers’ rights and the state of the Star Ferry.

New health code will hit pause on cross-border travel for those living near site of infection, but how wide a geographical area will be covered has yet to be decided.

Drill at border-crossing facilities scheduled for next week will test how well city’s new coronavirus health code app is working.