Hong Kong lifts covid restrictions for arrivals, scraps health app

Chief Executive John Lee said at a press conference on Tuesday that the Hong Kong government will lift a ban on international arrivals.

Published on: Dec 13, 2022 6:00 PM IST

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Hong Kong is lifting some of its last remaining Covid restrictions including the scrapping of the scanning app following China’s rapid shift away from the zero-tolerance approach. Overseas arrivals could now visit bars and restaurants from the moment they land in a further easing of Covid restrictions.  (AFP)

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The government will lift a ban on international arrivals and people will not have to scan a QR code on their phones to enter certain venues, said Chief Executive John Lee at a press conference on Tuesday.  (AFP)

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Whereas some venues will still need proof of vaccination upon entry, he added. He did not mention whether the government intends to remove the mask mandate.  (AFP)

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“All people want to have less restrictions as much as possible, while ensuring activities socially and economically can proceed as much as possible,” John Lee said.  (REUTERS)

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As per local media reports, quarantine-free travel with the mainland may start as soon as next month for the first time in almost three years.  (AFP)

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“This swift adjustment is very positive for economic sentiment,” said Michelle Lam, Greater China economist at Societe Generale SA. “As for the economy, the real shift will happen when China reopens with the rest of the world, which could be happening soon,” he added. (AFP)

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At a separate press conference later on Tuesday, Secretary for Health Lo Chung-Mau talked about some measures including the scrapping of Covid tests at border control points for mainland travel and reduction in compulsory testing notices to buildings.  (REUTERS)

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Travellers still need a negative PCR test result obtained within 48 hours before entering the mainland and Macau.  (AFP)

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Some curbs such as PCR tests for visitors arriving in Hong Kong, rapid antigen tests for school students, and wearing masks outdoors still remain.  (AFP)

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According to the previous Covid rules, those flying into the city were been banned from entering bars and restaurants for the first three days while they undergo tests.  (AFP)