Why are Chinese cities urging workers to skip Lunar New Year travel?

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Chinese Cities Urge Workers to Avoid Lunar New Year Travel Due to Covid-19 Concerns and Economic Stability

Chinese local governments and factories are actively encouraging workers to forgo their traditional Lunar New Year travel this February, implementing various incentives to retain them at their posts. This widespread initiative stems from significant fears surrounding the potential resurgence of Covid-19 cases, the threat of substantial profit losses, and the possibility of disruptive lockdowns that could cripple production and supply chains. The memory of the previous year's holiday, which saw a rapid spread of coronavirus that trapped workers in their hometowns and led to prolonged quarantines upon their return, is a primary driver for these preventative measures.
Concerns Over Covid-19 Resurgence and Economic Impact

The primary impetus behind the push to keep workers from travelling is the heightened risk of Covid-19 transmission associated with mass seasonal migration. Recent data indicates a worrying trend, with Heilongjiang province reporting a significant surge in cases, and 28 million individuals in northern provinces currently under home quarantine. Local governments and industrial hubs like Ningbo have explicitly stated that a production halt during the Lunar New Year period, particularly amidst strong foreign demand, could result in "huge losses" for businesses. This underscores the delicate balance between public health imperatives and the economic stability of China's manufacturing sector.
Incentives Offered to Retain Workers

To mitigate the impact of reduced workforce availability, a variety of incentives are being offered to persuade employees to remain at their workplaces. Beyond the standard practice of increased wages for working during the festival, companies and local authorities are providing additional benefits. These include higher overtime pay, bonuses, entertainment activities, and even free New Year's Eve banquets. For instance, a chemicals company in Zhejiang province reported that 85% of its workforce plans to stay, enticed by double hourly pay and a 500 yuan reward for continuous attendance throughout the holiday period.
Government Directives and Travel Expectations

Provincial governments have issued notices emphasizing the importance of epidemic control and the need to "guarantee the stability of industrial and supply chains" by encouraging workers to stay put. While the exact number of workers who will opt to remain is yet to be determined, official projections suggest a notable decrease in holiday travel compared to pre-pandemic levels. The southern Jiangxi province, a significant source of migrant labour, anticipates travel figures to be approximately 60% of those recorded in 2019.
Individual Worker Decisions Amidst Risk

The decision to travel or stay is a complex one for individual workers, influenced by personal risk assessments and employer offerings. Some, like Wang Zhishen, a factory worker in Dongguan, are choosing to stay due to the significant risk of contracting the virus during transit and potentially infecting their families. Conversely, others, such as a construction worker surnamed Wang, prioritize family reunions and are willing to undertake the journey despite the inherent risks and potential lockdown scenarios, highlighting the enduring importance of familial ties during the festive season.

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Why are Chinese cities urging workers to skip Lunar New Year travel?

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