Hong Kong removes international travel quarantine after more than two years

The Hong Kong government has announced the ending of formal quarantine for international travelers after more than two and a half years of stringent pandemic controls.

Under new rules that will take effect from September 26, incoming travelers will be required to undergo three days of self-monitoring on arrival.

The Hong Kong government has faced considerable pressure from its business community and some public health officials to loosen restrictions amid a faltering economy, an outflow of foreigners and concerns that the financial hub, once known as “Asia’s World City,” was being left behind as the rest of the world moved on from the pandemic.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee said in a much anticipated press conference on Friday that the city’s infection numbers have stabilized, allowing for the removal of quarantine.

“We hope to give the maximum room to reconnect Hong Kong, and to revitalize our economy,” Lee said.

Incoming travelers will be able to do their three days of self-monitoring at home or a place of their own choice. During this time they will be able to go outside but will be restricted from some places.

Agencies