SHENZHEN China (Reuters) – American businesses have difficulty persuading overseas employees to move to China, due to China’s COVID-19 restrictions and continuous lockdowns.

A survey of 121 respondents revealed that 49% of foreign workers said they are significantly less likely or unwilling to move to China due to COVID-related policies. 82% cited uncertainty about how long the lockdown and quarantine will continue as their main reasons.

Colm Rafferty, chairman of the chamber said that “we are anticipating a massive exodus in foreign talent this year with fewer workers overseas wanting to accept open positions here at China.”

The number of international flights to China is very limited. Short-notice cancellations are possible. Passengers must get approval from Chinese embassies abroad before they board. Most arrivals require three weeks quarantine.

Rafferty stated that while we understand China’s decision to place safety and health first, the US is unable to trust China due its current policies.

Overseas businesses continue to protest the COVID controls, which have kept Shanghai’s 25 million inhabitants under lockdown for more than a month. In addition, Beijing has been tightening its security measures. [L2N2X102N]

Respondents were found to have delayed or reduced investments by 51%, while 58% had decreased revenue projections.

The results of a survey conducted by the European Chamber of Commerce in China revealed that more than a quarter of the respondents had indicated they were thinking of moving to China their planned or current investments. That’s nearly twice as many people who responded at the beginning of the year. [L2N2WX0DG]