East-West divide: Winners and losers in Covid-19 economy

Asian nations’ early action to stem virus spread contrasts with Europe’s struggle

A protester being taken away for refusing to wear a mask over his mouth in Rome last Saturday (left), while over in Shanghai (right), people can act without fear of the coronavirus after China suppressed the initial outbreak in Wuhan and continues to tackle any new case aggressively. PHOTOS: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, EPA-EFE

(FINANCIAL TIMES) For Mr Remigio Brunelli, managing director in China for the Italian sportswear group Tecnica, Covid-19 feels almost like a bad memory as life in Beijing returns to normal and consumers regain their confidence.

The difference between Europe and China is palpable, Mr Brunelli said. "Uncertainty is still running high in the old continent, and we expect it to last for another six or 12 months at least. In Asia, on the other hand, and particularly in China, there is confidence."

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