Dine-in services after 6 pm to resume from April 21, allowing 4 people per table

The government today (April 14) announced details of the relaxation of social distancing measures. At a press conference, Secretary for Food and Health Sophia Chan said that from April 21, restaurants can open until 10 pm, and dine-in services after 6 pm will also be resumed. Meanwhile, the maximum number of customers per table will be relaxed to four, while banquets of up to 20 people will also be allowed. However, bars and pubs will remain closed.

Chan addded that from April 21, the ban on cross-family gatherings involving more than two households in private places is expected to be lifted, and the maximum number of people in gatherings in public places will be raised from two to four people. 

Most other premises that were previously ordered to close – including beauty and massage parlours, gyms and sports venues, as well as cinemas, entertainment, recreational and religious venues – will be allowed to reopen. They are required to operate at 50 percent of their capacity. Swimming pools and beaches, however, will remain shut.

Cinemas can also serve food and drinks at certain theatres if their staff and all visitors inside the venue are triple-jabbed.

Local tours will be allowed to resume as well, provided that all participants are jabbed.