Hong Kong will withdraw its flying restriction on nine countries next week, signalling a departure from its previous 'zero Covid' policy. From April 1, fully vaccinated Hong Kong residents from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, France, India, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, and the United States will be allowed to board flights to Hong Kong if they can show proof of a negative PCR test.
Quarantine in a hotel will still be required upon arrival in Hong Kong, but it will be reduced from 14 days to seven days.
Carrie Lam, the city’s Chief Executive, announced the news at a press conference on Monday, saying that the flight ban is causing anguish to Hong Kong residents who are stranded abroad, as well as affecting the city's companies.
She also stated that from April 20, prohibitions on social gatherings, mask-wearing, and company and venue operations will be eased in three stages.
Meanwhile, Reuters reported today that the full restoration of foreign travel in Hong Kong will have "minimal marginal influence" on the spread of Covid-19, given that travellers are fully vaccinated and have documentation of a negative Covid test prior to departure.
Neighbouring countries Malaysia and South Korea intend to reopen to fully vaccinated travellers next month as well, though neither country will require quarantine.
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