China's “dynamic clearance” strategy aimed at minimising Covid-19 infections is boosting the economy, not undermining it, the country's top anti-corruption body has said in response to concerns about the prospects for growth this year.

The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, the ruling Communist Party's corruption watchdog, said in an article posted on its website that existing policies had proved cost-effective by isolating affected communities and allowing others to operate normally.

It said the shift to a more “precise” and targeted approach to locking down outbreaks had “reduced the impact on economic and social development”, Reuters reported.