The research also analyzed some key economic indicators, including the consumer price index, or CPI, and the purchasing managers' index, or PMI.

The country's CPI－a main gauge of inflation－h(huán)as risen overall since the outbreak, but consumers bought less clothing in the first quarter compared with the same period last year. Property transactions also fell.

Last month, the PMI exceeded 50 in both the manufacturing and non-manufacturing sectors. A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while one below this mark reflects contraction. The reading for last month shows that the pandemic prevention and control situation continues to improve, production is resuming, life is returning to normal and economic development is moving in a positive direction.

With most consumers remaining at home to prevent the virus spreading, demand for online shopping and services has soared, making the digital economy a new driving force.

In January and February, demand surged for e-commerce, and online education, entertainment, telemedicine and others services, China Daily's research found.