China’s border controls show more signs of easing, as Zhejiang province cuts entry quarantine
>> China appears to be lowering its “great wall” of border controls, with entry rules for foreigners relaxed, international flights increased and quarantine time shortened. The eastern province of Zhejiang will now require overseas arrivals to do only seven days of central quarantine, followed by another seven in home isolation.
Covid cases at four month low as threat of curbs remains
>> Chinese cities that were in lockdown just a few months ago are imposing pandemic curbs again, as the country’s zero tolerance approach to Covid-19 plunges it into a constant cycle of unpredictable, stop-start restrictions. The snap mitigation measures come as China reported just 22 new infections in the whole country for Tuesday, the fewest daily cases in more than four months.
New Hong Kong leader vows to review hotel quarantine policy
>> Hong Kong’s incoming leader John Lee said he plans to “quickly review” mandatory quarantine measures for incoming travelers, including suggestions to isolate at home or reduce the number of days required to stay in designated hotels.
Huazhu Group changes name to H World Group
>> Hotel giant Huazhu Group said it will change its name from "Huazhu Group" to "H World Group".
Radisson Hotel Group plans 400% growth in Asia Pacific region
>> Radisson Hotel Group announced plans to grow its presence in the Asia-Pacific region 400% by 2025. Radisson’s APAC Expansion Plan calls for an additional 1,700 hotels and resorts to its current portfolio of 400. The company is focusing on five strategic growth markets: India, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia and New Zealand.
Macau shuts leisure sites amid Covid, casinos can still run
>> Macau’s Chief Executive, Ho Iat Seng, has used his powers to gazette the shutting of most leisure facilities in the city with effect from 5 pm on Thursday. The city’s casinos were not on the list of places that must shutter. The Chief Executive said the situation would be analyzed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the development of the outbreak, and that it was important to ensure job stability.
China Southern Boeing 737 MAX operates first test flights in 3 months
>> Recent 737 MAX activities in China Southern’s fleet have once again sparked discussions about whether the airline is close to bringing them back into service. The type hasn’t performed passenger-carrying commercial flights in China since its grounding following the two deadly crashes. Last week, China Southern Airlines conducted a bunch of test flights of the Boeing 737 MAX airplane, suggesting that preparations are being made to return the type to service soon.
