Chinese officials have lifted the harshest restrictions of the zero-COVID policy, but consumers are still cautious amid surging infections.

China has abandoned its sweeping restrictions after nearly three years. Heads are spinning from the speed of the change, and infections are spreading quickly.

“The Way of Water” debuted in China and the U.S. on Friday amid tense relations between the countries. A simultaneous theatrical release is a big deal.

Most workers who leave small towns for higher pay in big cities can’t bring their families with them. For nearly three years, travel restrictions have kept them apart.

The protests reflect simmering anger over strict government COVID measures.

After its over-reliance on the Kremlin for its energy, is Germany making the same mistake with Beijing?

“It’s really down to the person enforcing the rules,” said one lawyer who was detained at a train station.

China is simplifying some of the rules to enter its zero-COVID bubble, but many hurdles remain.

The increases are seen as an indicator of strength, though they might fuel more inflation.

Tariffs and restrictions still hamper U.S.-China trade.