Hong Kong Softens the Handle on Tourists Amid COVID‑19
After a whirlwind three‑year lockdown, the Hong Kong government is finally loosening its grip on inbound travelers, letting them hop into theme parks and museums without the usual red‑tape hurdles.
What’s New for Visitors?
- No more hotel quarantine for anyone arriving from abroad – a move that takes effect from 26 September.
- Passengers still need to get multiple COVID‑tests on arrival.
- For the first three days, they’re banned from bars, restaurants and sports clubs.
Rolling Out the Plan
The government teased that “specific arrangements for visiting tourists” will be launched this month, though no concrete start date has been pinned down yet.
“The relevant arrangements can support the gradual resumption of the inbound travel market in an orderly manner and provide a more favourable business environment for the travel trade,” the authorities explained.
Why the Surprise?
Just a week ago, Hong Kong hosted a high‑profile financial summit and granted over 200 global finance leaders a one‑day exemption from the usual travel rules. Many locals are now calling out the apparent double standard and demanding equal treatment for everyone.
Beyond the Business Lens
These restrictions have rattled the city’s economy, pushing countless small and medium‑sized enterprises to the brink of closure. With the new rules, the hope is to breathe life back into the bustling streets and tourism corridors that define Hong Kong’s vibrant spirit.
