A government official said that Hong Kong has to find a way to balance the demands of international tourists and Hong Kong aims at lifting some border restrictions starting next month. 

China territory intends to ease a travel ban on flights from nine countriesThe changes apply to all countries, U.S., U.K., Australia and permit travelers to be quarantined in hotels for 7 days instead of 14. These changes take effect April 1.

According to Bernard Chan, the Executive Council’s convenor, “It is very important that you have to cater for the needs of international businessmen but equally, we also have a large population of Hong Kong that requires the relaxation of border restrictions to the mainland China because that’s also very important Hong Kong for family reunions and businesses as well,” Chan told CNBC’s Monday’s “SquawkBox Asia.” 

He said that it was a difficult balance act, particularly as China continues to see pockets of Covid outbreaks.

Hong Kong’s executive councilIt is an advisory body of cabinet-like nature that provides advice to the chief executive.

China has been battling its worst Covid outbreakSince early 2020. Local governments blame the new micron BA.2 version for current waves across the country. This is the largest city ShanghaiA two-stage lockdown was started Monday.

Hong Kong, just like mainland China has embraced a “dynamic zero” coronavirus strategy to eradicate all infections.

According to Monday’s report, there were 7,685 Covid new infections and 168 deaths in this city. according to official dataAs the latest wave in omicron-related infections slows down,

An overview of the events that took place between March 22-28, average of 4,217.4According to data from government, there were fewer cases reported each day than the 8,704.4 average cases per day for the preceding 7 days.

Still, Hong Kong lags behind regional peers — especially rival financial hub Singapore, which said last ThursdayIt will remove almost all restrictions at the border for travelers who have been vaccinated starting next month.  

Chan stated, “As the rest the world opens up, we must try to find a way out.” Starting April 1, the hotel quarantine period will be reduced from 14 days down to seven days. It’s still not enough but it’s an improvement,” he said.

A recent study by the European Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, Hong Kong’s zero Covid strategy was “very costly for the business community.”

Survey results showed that 49% of companies polled thought they might relocate their offices completely or in part within the next 12 month.

The report also stated that 2/3 of the 3 Hong Kong companies have faced restrictions in their corporate strategies and hiring plans.

Chan admitted that these are tough times for Hong Kong but he was confident that it will recover its reputation as a business center when the pandemic is over. 

Covid’s reign will end, and I do agree with him. It is a matter of time when it’s done,” he stated. Hong Kong, as the center of Greater Bay of China is attractive and China’s economy continues to grow, remains very attractive. People will return, I believe.”