SHANGHAI -- Shopping malls and stores in China have quickly reopened as the government promotes a return to business as usual, only to see consumers stay home and keep their purse strings tight or shop online.
Customer traffic down by more than half at Shanghai Walmart branch

Customers have been slow to return, with traffic at this Walmart near Shanghai at less than half of usual levels. (Photo by Naoki Matsuda)
SHANGHAI -- Shopping malls and stores in China have quickly reopened as the government promotes a return to business as usual, only to see consumers stay home and keep their purse strings tight or shop online.