Beijing has imposed new restrictions on an upscale diplomats district that is home to 3.5 million people, as it guards against the threat of a second wave of coronavirus cases.

The move to increase social distancing in the Chinese capital just weeks after it relaxed strict lockdown measures is likely to be repeated around the world, as Australia and other countries grapple with the threat of resurgent infections.

Beijing has categorised a key district as "high risk". Credit:Getty

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Tuesday said there were no plans to change travel restrictions on China as Australia's largest trading partner looks to re-open parts of its economy despite the threat of a second wave.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that Chinese diplomats had begun negotiating with up to a dozen countries including South Korea, Singapore and others in Europe on two-way travel for essential workers and business.