North Macedonia: Authorities to tighten COVID-19-related domestic restrictions April 6-20 due to sharp rise in infection rates /update 28

North Macedonia to tighten COVID-19-related domestic restrictions April 6-20. Expect disruptions.

Event

Authorities in North Macedonia will tighten the nation's domestic COVID-19 restrictions due to a sharp rise in infection rates and deaths. Starting April 6, authorities will close all gyms, fitness clubs, and sporting centers, and will prohibit seminars, workshops, conferences, and other related business events. All catering establishments will be restricted to providing delivery and carryout services from April 7. In addition, starting April 7, the daily curfew will start two hours earlier; curfew hours will be 20:00-05:00. During curfew hours, all individuals must remain at home unless they are performing essential work duties, traveling to or from airports, or attending to urgent medical needs. These restrictions will be in place until at least April 20.

Aside from the new measures, existing restrictions will remain in place. Both indoor and outdoor public gatherings are limited to four people. Most other businesses and facilities are permitted to operate, provided they implement certain hygienic and social distancing measures. Facemasks must be worn in indoor and outdoor public spaces, and in areas where social distancing of 2 meters (6.5 feet) is not possible.

International entry restrictions
All passengers arriving from any African country must self-isolate for 14 days. The country's land borders remain open. International flights are operating; individuals arriving via air may be subject to health screening on arrival.

Authorities could extend, ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Confirm all public transportation and business appointments. Follow all official directives. Abide by national health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Prepare for freight delivery disruptions. Consider delaying or detouring goods.