Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City enforcing tighter COVID-19 restrictions through June 14

Event

Officials are implementing tighter controls in Ho Chi Minh City through June 14 due to increased COVID-19 activity. Authorities have closed non-essential businesses, suspended cultural, recreational, and sports activities in public venues, and capped gatherings at five people. Residents are required to maintain a two-meter distance from one another when in public. The government has encouraged people to remain at home unless for essential reasons. Locals above the age of 60 must remain at their residence, except when in a medical emergency. Officials have suspended several intracity and intercity bus services, including those serving routes with Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Long An provinces. Public transport that remains operational must enforce health protocols, like requiring passengers to wear facemasks and comply with distancing measures.

Authorities have imposed stricter measures in Go Vap District and District 12's Thanh Loc Ward due to higher COVID-19 activity. Entry and exit restrictions are in effect; it is unclear whether there are any exemptions in place. Residents are to remain in their residence unless for essential reasons, like working in essential sectors, obtaining necessities, and seeking medical assistance. Public transport services remain suspended.

Officials have suspended inbound international flights at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) through June 4 and may extend the policy. It is unclear if authorities allow affected flights to divert to other airports in Vietnam. Cargo flights are likely exempt from the restrictions.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security measures like setting up checkpoints across Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in areas enacting more stringent controls, through at least June 14. Transport and business disruptions are likely. Flight delays are possible after regular services resume at SGN as airlines clear backlogs.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Avoid all nonessential operations in areas impacted by restrictions. Confirm appointments. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Make allowances for likely business disruptions.