20 Jul 2021 | 04:04 AM UTC
Vietnam: Authorities extending lockdown measures in Ho Chi Minh City through Aug. 1 /update 7
Authorities extending lockdown measures in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, through Aug. 1. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Event
Authorities have extended lockdown measures in Ho Chi Minh City through Aug. 1 due to increased local COVID-19 activity. Officials request all residents to remain at home except when seeking medical care, working in essential industries, or purchasing essential goods. Nonessential gatherings are limited to two people. Nonessential business operations remain suspended, as do cultural, recreational, and sports activities in public venues. Officials will suspend most public transport, including buses, taxis, and intracity and intercity bus services. Entry and exit controls remain in place in the city; exemptions are in place for the transport of essential goods and business reasons, among others.
At least ten locations, including Quang Ninh, Quang Binh, Gia Lai, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Nghe An, Thua Thien Hue, and Quang Nam provinces, as well as Haiphong and Thanh Hoa cities and Phu Quoc Island, have suspended flights with Ho Chi Minh City. Authorities require all outbound travelers from Ho Chi Minh City to undergo a 14-day quarantine at their destination and take at least three COVID-19 tests during the period. Most provinces require a negative COVID-19 test result for individuals arriving from Ho Chi Minh City. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is providing rapid COVID-19 test services for passengers.
Authorities are strictly enforcing the restrictions, including fining people between VND 1-3 million for being outside without a valid reason. Officials have also closed several factories in Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone and Saigon Hi-tech Park due to COVID-19 outbreaks in the area. Factories located in Saigon Hi-tech Park must now allow workers to stay on-site to operate.
Officials will likely maintain heightened security measures, including at checkpoints across Ho Chi Minh City, to ensure compliance with the latest restrictions. Additional extensions are possible, depending on COVID-19 activity.
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.
