Hong Kong cuts COVID-19 hotel quarantine period for all arrivals from 7 days to 3 days, a stringent move that has isolated Asia's financial industry We have taken another step towards gradually easing pandemic rules. hub.
Arrivals will be required to self-monitor for an additional four days, during which time they will be barred from entering establishments such as restaurants and bars.
The measure will take effect from Friday, city leader John Lee said at a news conference on Monday.
"We need to strike a balance between people's livelihoods and Hong Kong's competitiveness in order to give the community maximum momentum and economic vitality," Lee said.
Those in quarantine will be issued a red code on a government-mandated app. Once you leave quarantine, this will change to a yellow code, indicating you must not enter a crowded facility.
Quarantine used to last him three weeks. All arrivals are now required to spend at least a week in hotel quarantine, follow frequent testing orders, provide a baby fecal sample, and complete multiple forms.
Available for quarantine. is only for a selected number of hotels.
Rooms are expensive and usually booked months in advance. Payment is prepaid and no refunds are allowed unless there is a change in government policy or flight cancellation.
Hong Kong's competitiveness has been hit by pandemic measures, business executives say, hoping city leader Lee will scrap quarantine rules from 1 July.
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The city's borders have been almost completely closed since 2020, with international arrivals facing strict quarantine and testing protocols. It is one of the last places in the world that still imposes quarantine on arrivals.
Lee has promised to reconnect Hong Kong with the mainland and the rest of the world. He said it suspended rules banning private flights in July if they brought in passengers infected with the coronavirus, causing unnecessary trouble and inconvenience to residents.
More than 100 flights have been banned this year, a major frustration for businesses and residents accustomed to easy and efficient travel from the city.
Flag carrier Cathay Pacific's stock jumped 3.5% after the announcement to HK$8.77, his biggest daily gain since June 28.
Cathay has been hit hard by the severe pandemic in Hong Kong. A rule over the past two years that has led to his 98% decline in passenger numbers.
Hong Kong's popular international rugby sevens event will take place November 4-6 for the first time in over three years. Canceled for 2020 and 2021 due to pandemic measures.
The tournament, which will attract international visitors, will coincide with a major banking conference that month will be attended by top global executives, a sign that Hong Kong can resume business as usual. would be
Bank officials say quarantine-free travel is a prerequisite for holding the event.
