Hong Kong further eases social distancing measures: 12 pax dining, 240 pax banquets, and more

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A maximum of six people per table are allowed in nightlife venues, and the suspension mechanism for cruise-to-nowhere itineraries is lifted. Other social distancing measures remain unchanged.

Following the lifting of compulsory quarantine requirement for inbound persons from overseas places or Taiwan, the HKSAR government has announced the relaxation of certain social distancing measures with effect from 6 October 2022 (Thursday). 

A total of five social distancing measures are being eased, which are:

1. Increasing the maximum number of persons per table for catering premises from eight to 12;
2. Relaxing the restriction on all activities in scheduled premises with a limit on the number of persons per group from eight to 12;
3. Relaxing the maximum number of persons per table for bars/pubs and clubs/nightclubs from four to six;
4. Increasing the maximum number of persons for banquets in catering premises from 120 to 240; and
5. Lifting the suspension mechanism for cruise-to-nowhere itineraries.

Other social distancing measures remain unchanged, including the requirement for participants in banquets as well as patrons of bars/pubs and clubs/nightclubs to undergo rapid antigen test (RAT); requirements related to the use of 'LeaveHomeSafe' and the Vaccine Pass, and restrictions for holders of Red Code/Amber Code in entering premises; mask-wearing for citizens on transport carriers and in specified public places; as well as prohibition of group gatherings in public places etc.

The Government reminded citizens in particular that the new arrangement of the Vaccine Pass commenced on 30 September 2022. The applicable age of the Vaccine Pass has been lowered to cover children aged five to 11, and the vaccination requirements applicable to persons aged 12 or above under the Vaccine Pass have also been adjusted. In line with that, a new function has been added to the 'LeaveHomeSafe'. After users have updated the application, they may store their own Vaccine Pass and those of a maximum of eight accompanied persons at the same time. 

The Government said it will closely monitor the epidemic development in a holistic manner, and review the room for relaxing the social distancing measures under each 14-day cycle ahead, with a view to further resuming citizens' daily lives to normalcy when the epidemic continues to stabilise.

Image / Shutterstock

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