Hong Kong’s leader said on Tuesday that the city would lift mask-wearing, one of the last such policies in the world, as it lifts its once strict Covid control measures.
John Lee, the city’s chief executive, said at a press conference: “Evidence shows that the corona virus is under control in Hong Kong, with no signs of a resurgence.
Mr. Lee said that starting Wednesday, people will no longer have to wear masks indoors, outdoors or on public transport, although facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes can still require Ask staff and visitors to wear masks. Previously, people who did not wear masks in public were fined about $635.
Hong Kong’s strict Covid policies, until last year included limits on group gatherings, No flight and long hotel quarantine, increasingly criticized by business leaders and others, who say the controls are hurting the city’s appeal as a financial center and destination. tourism. Macau, a nearby gambling hub that, like Hong Kong is a Chinese territory, ended its outdoor mask-wearing rule on Monday.
“With the lifting of the mask-wearing rule, Hong Kong will return to the surrounding normal, and this year and next will devote all its energy to the economy and develop at full speed,” Mr. Lee said.
This is an evolving story.
