Macau: strict controls for Hong Kong visitors

Authorities have decided to impose strict measures on arrivals from Hong Kong, where Covid-19 cases continue to rise.

Macau.- Due to a rise in numbers of Covid-19 cases in Hong Kong, those visiting Macau will have to undergo stricter border controls.

According to the last announcement from Macau’s health authorities, people entering Macau from Hong Kong will have to present a negative Covid-19 nucleic acid test result taken within 72 hours before entry.

Arrivals from the neighbouring SAR will still have to complete a 14-day quarantine, and all crew members of Macau-Hong Kong ships will be driven to a designated hotel by private car and will not be allowed to move around the city. To board the ship back, they will be sent directly to the terminal.

Hong Kong recorded 125 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday, the 11th day that new cases passed 100.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong has extended to September 7 the 14-day quarantine for visitors coming from Macau, mainland China and Taiwan.

The measures are are likely to extend the pain for Macau’s economy. GGR has plummeted due to the crisis and visitors from Hong Kong represent 15 per cent of gaming revenue in normal times.