The Hong Kong government is in high-level talks to reopen its borders with 11 countries in a new travel bubble as the country looks to rebuild its economy.
The region's Commerce minister Edward Yau Tang-wah said anyone allowed to travel within the bubble would be mandated to undergo COVID-19 PCR testing at both ends of their trip.
This is the first time in months that the administration has provided more details on reopening Hong Kong's borders.
Tang-wah stated that Hong Kong had made contact with 11 countries in regards to a reciprocal reopening of borders.
The 11 countries are:
- Japan
- Thailand
- South Korea
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Malaysia
- Vietnam
- France
- Switzerland
- Germany
- Singapore
The Commerce Minister did however admit that so far the government has only entered bilateral talks with Thailand and Japan.
“These are places with which we have made initial contact, but whether travel bubbles can be established would depend on a host of factors, including the epidemic situation and its containment in respective places,” stated Yau.
While specific groups of travelers have not been named, some countries did say priority would be given to business travelers first according to the South China Morning Post.
“It all depends on how ready and comfortable both parties are with the situation.”
No timelines have been announced on when Hong Kong borders could reopen.
“We need to ensure that a coronavirus test – that is mutually recognised – can be carried out before travelling, and another verification is needed after arrival,” Mr Yau said during the press conference in Hong Kong yesterday.
Asia has remained one of the most locked down areas of the world.
Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, China and Japan all remain closed for general tourism.
Some Asian countries however have reopened travel corridors which allows for business travelers. Malaysia and Singapore reopened the borders between the two countries on August 17th for selected travelers under what was call the ‘Reciprocal Green Lane‘.
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Anil
Friday 30th of October 2020
Do you know if Indians (resident of UAE) will be allowed on work visas to Hong Kong ?
Kashlee Kucheran
Friday 30th of October 2020
I really don't have enough data to advise on that at this time. You will have to ask the consulate
Terry Aspinall
Sunday 25th of October 2020
Do we know when we will be allowed in to Hong Kong from England
Kashlee Kucheran
Sunday 25th of October 2020
For general tourism, we don't know. Currently, Brits can enter if they are residents or have property there, but not for general reasons
Adam
Sunday 20th of September 2020
When do u think?! Hk and China border will be open freely.
Kashlee Kucheran
Sunday 20th of September 2020
Hi Adam, it's anyone's guess when the border will be freely open for tourism. No one knows at this point
Ellen Rempillo
Saturday 12th of September 2020
Madam can be travel now From Hongkong to Philippines vice versa especially Domestic Helper thanks Godbless All over the World ,especially my love country..
Kashlee Kucheran
Saturday 12th of September 2020
I'm sorry we have no information about work visas. You will have to contact the consulate or local authorities
Sandy Marcelo
Friday 11th of September 2020
France are having high numbers every day..why allow them to enter?