Letters | Covid-19 rules mean it’s all tricks, no treats for Hong Kong

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Halloween arrived, but there was no need for costume masks in Hong Kong, as the perpetual mask mandate continues. Sadly, there are no treats yet as it is all tricks.

The changes in the rules for arriving passengers can best be described as not “0+3” but rather “0+3=12”, highlighting that arrivals are required to undergo a minimum of 12 Covid tests. No treat at all.

The efforts to hold finance conferences this week as a sign that Hong Kong is open have resulted in limited attendance. The government wanted senior executives to attend to send a positive message globally, but they must wear masks, take several Covid-19 tests, and both gatherings and meal venues are limited. No treat at all.

The Hong Kong Sevens returns this weekend, but those attending must wear masks except when consuming food or beverages. Only true rugby fans will attend, rather than the fun-seekers that normally fly in from all around the world.

It is time to realise how troublesome doing business is in Hong Kong with the excessive measures that at one time made sense. Our city continues to be viewed by the world as inconvenient and inefficient, particularly as our Asian neighbours – Singapore and Thailand, for example – are truly open, resuming normalcy while improving their competitive positions relative to Hong Kong.

As Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po recovers from his own bout of Covid-19 and returns home, we can only hope his influence on the government can help steer us back to being an open and efficient city that truly welcomes visitors and business. No more tricks of mixed and changing messages, or free airline tickets. Let’s give back to the world and our own people the treat we deserve: a city open to all.