Several have imposed tough travel rules including banning flights to and from China, while the World Health Organisation has declared a global health emergency. Observers said China's leaders were considering lowering their GDP forecasts for this year owing to the epidemic. The gains were despite news that the city had seen the first death of a patient who had contracted the coronavirus. The conflicting visions raised the possibility of tariffs and increased barriers being thrown up that could cripple supply chains. In early European trade, London jumped more than one percent, while Paris added 0.6% and Frankfurt gained 0.7%.

Source: The Star February 04, 2020 12:00 UTC