Authorities in China have announced some COVID-19 lockdown measures in Shanghai will be lifted from Wednesday this week, in a much needed reprieve for business and the global supply chain

Authorities are now introducing plans to support the city’s economy, which has been hit hard by the restrictions.

The commercial centre has been under a strict lockdown for almost two months.

Meanwhile, Beijing has reopened parts of its public transport system as well as some shopping malls as the number of infections ease.

The announcement in Shanghai came as official figures showed new daily coronavirus cases fell to 122 from 170 over the previous 24 hours.

Companies will no longer need to be on a “whitelist” to resume production starting from June 1. 

The city is now looking at how to revitalise Shanghai.

Additional help for businesses will include allowing firms to delay insurance and rent payments, as well as subsidies for utility charges.