As the Coronavirus pandemic unfolded, many countries, including China, were forced to close their borders to non-residents. Hong Kong, for example, was subject to very strict restrictions during the pandemic. However, since April 21, these restrictions have been relaxed. Find out more here.
The evolution of the pandemic in Hong Kong
China is one of the countries hardest hit by the Covid 19 pandemic. Since 2020, Beijing has imposed strict health safety standards. With the "Zero Cases" policy, the Hong Kong government's primary aim was to protect its population while reducing the number of cases of the disease. This policy involved confining and isolating the whole of Hong Kong from all foreign residents for 14 days. However, although the reasons for this measure were excellent, it was not as successful as had been hoped.
In fact, Hong Kong has experienced its fifth wave of the virus since the start of the New Year. This situation has greatly impinged on China's business, as well as the city's economic and social plans. According to one report, over 8,600 deaths were recorded in February and March alone. Although the pandemic persists, the government eased some firm restrictions on April 21.
Hong Kong's new measures from April 21
Since April 21, the Hong Kong government has authorized gatherings of up to four people instead of two. As for restaurants, they could remain open until 10 p.m. The new measures also benefited schoolchildren and students. Since April 25, they have been able to resume face-to-face classes. They must, however, respect social distancing and the wearing of masks.
However, bars and beaches must remain closed to the public and mass gatherings. According to executive officer Carrie Lam, the relaxation of health measures is necessary in many respects. Indeed, according to the official, if the government did not relax the restrictions, the impact on Hong Kong's society and economy would be more than disastrous. For over a week now, the number of infections has been falling. From 2,000 cases, some 1,200 have been recorded in the space of a week.
The measures also affect travel and the opening of Hong Kong's airports. Since May, foreign residents have been authorized to enter or leave the city under certain conditions. For example, each traveller must present a negative PCR test less than 48 hours old. Masks must be worn in public places and on public transport.
Passengers who are exempt from these restrictions include:
- Hong Kong residents,
- Local authorities,
- Passengers with diplomatic passports and
- Holders of work visas.
On arrival, travelers are required to undergo quarantine. This must last between 7 and 14 days. The border is open to more than eight countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and France. For other countries, the evolution of the sanitary situation will be a determining factor in future measures to be taken.
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