U.S. companies have largely stayed steadfast in their commitment to remaining in China, but a new survey shows rising concern as the government locks down in response to Covid-19. The results are the latest indication of the difficulties facing the nation’s economy, and how those issues could affect the changing shape of globalization.
More than half of the American companies operating in China say they have delayed or cut investments as they evaluate their options globally, and foreign staff are less willing – or simply refusing – to shift to China. This is the dire picture presented by a flash survey of 121 companies by the American Chamber of Commerce in China between April 29 and May 5.
American businesses are struggling to persuade overseas staff to join them in China due to the country’s strict COVID-19 control measures and ongoing lockdowns, the American Chamber of Commerce in China said on Monday. In a survey of 121 members, 49% said foreign workers are either significantly less likely to – or are refusing to – move to China because of COVID-related policies, with 82% singling out uncertainty over how long quarantine and lockdown times will last as the main reason.
“We understand China choosing to prioritize health and safety above all else, but the current measures are throttling US business confidence in China,” said Colm Rafferty, Chairman for the Chamber in China, in a statement that accompanied the survey results. “Our member companies urge the government to achieve a more optimal balance between pandemic prevention, economic development, and opening-up of the country,” he added.
The results of a new survey from the American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham China) show growing dissatisfaction with authorities’ handling of the outbreak. All 121 companies surveyed between April 29 and May 5 said they have been affected by the government’s Covid-19 policies.
More than half of the 121 companies polled by the American Chamber of Commerce in China have either reduced or delayed investment in the country, while nearly 60% of them lowered their income forecasts for this year following the latest outbreaks, according to a statement.