Coronavirus panic buying sends Asian governments scrambling

From Japan to Thailand to India, here's how authorities are fending off hoarders

20200309 coronavirus panic buying

Shoppers in Hong Kong walk past empty shelves in late January: The coronavirus outbreak has triggered panic buying across Asia, but governments are taking steps to calm anxious citizens.  © Getty Images

Nikkei staff writers

TOKYO -- Consumers in Asia and across the globe are in panic mode, to varying degrees, over the new coronavirus.

Face masks, nonperishable foods and toilet paper have been selling out despite government calls to remain calm. Videos circulating on social media show long lines, empty shelves and even physical fights over supplies. But policymakers and companies, and some tycoons and activists, are taking action to soothe public fears.

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