Policy Advice to Asia in the COVID-19 Era

As the COVID-19 pandemic spread around the world, the first priority for policymakers was to limit the spread of the virus. While all countries imposed containment measures, exact strategies differed. New Zealand imposed a near complete lockdown, while Korea relied on strong advisories about business closures rather than mandatory shutdowns. Reopening strategies also differed, although most Asian countries reopened only after the first wave of the virus was suppressed. As the pandemic has continued to evolve, countries have increasingly relied on testing and tracing systems and localized lockdowns to contain the virus while minimizing economic costs. Looking ahead, effectiveness and distribution of vaccines will of course play a key role in shaping the infection curve.