China: Officials in Heilongjiang Province impose stricter curbs in parts of Harbin through April 25 /update 5

Event

Officials in Heilongjiang Province are imposing stricter curbs in Harbin's main urban areas through April 25 due to COVID-19 activity. The affected locations include Daoli, Daowai, Nangang, Pingfang, Songshan North, and Xiangfang districts. Residents cannot leave unless necessary. Individuals who need to exit such areas must hold a negative nucleic acid test result taken within 48 hours and have a green health code. Exemptions are possible for essential workers. Metro services are suspended and other public transport must operate at a reduced frequency. Establishments permitted to open must allow flexible work arrangements for employees and cannot organize workplace gatherings.

The tightest restrictions are in medium-risk areas. As of April 20, such areas include 33 locations in Daoli, Nangang, Shuangcheng, and Xiangfang districts in Harbin; and Aimin District in Mudanjiang. Officials likely require residents of the locations and individuals with recent exposure to them to remain in their homes. Authorities will restrict travel to and from the affected communities. Security personnel will enforce checkpoints in these areas to ensure compliance with movement restrictions. Officials typically extend measures until two weeks after the latest date of newly confirmed community cases. Officials will likely carry out several rounds of testing in these locations before easing restrictions.

Additional measures are likely if there are new COVID-19 cases. Strict controls, such as stay-at-home orders, may occur in Harbin or other areas of Heilongjiang Province in the coming days. Increased health screenings are likely at Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB) and other passenger transport hubs in the province. Business operations and supply chain disruptions are possible in industrial areas affected by localized restrictions and at China-Russia border checkpoints.

Advice

Strictly heed the instructions of authorities. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Confirm appointments and travel reservations due to possible restrictions.