The Asian Games is among the major sporting events to have been impacted by China's tough zero-COVID approach, being delayed by one year to new dates of September 23 to October 8.

Its international borders have largely been closed for almost three years since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Hangzhou 2022 officials had been optimistic that restrictions would be eased to allow the Games to take place.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has now announced a major shift in its approach to international travel coming into effect on January 8, with those arriving in the country no longer required to undergo quarantine.

Arrivals would, however, be required to show a negative PCR test for COVID-19 taken within 48 hours of departure.

Those who test positive are obliged to postpone their travel plans.

Flights to China are set to increase on a phased basis, with masks mandatory on board for passengers.

China is reporting around 5,000 COVID-19 cases per day, although analysts claim that this may be a significant underestimate, and the true figure could be closer to one million.

Several countries plan to impose COVID-19 testing on arrivals from China following the reopening of its borders, including the United States, in a move set to affect the upcoming Lake Placid 2023 International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Games.

China's strict approach to the pandemic sparked rare mass protests against Xi Jinping's Government in November.

Other major sporting events due to take place in China in 2023 including the FISU World University Games in Chengdu.