Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has allowed the reopening of non-essential services after three weeks have passed without local transmission of coronavirus.

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc. Photo: VGP

However, bars and karaoke lounges need to stay shut, according to the PM's conclusions at a government meeting on May 7.

Under the PM’s decision, distancing restrictions on means of transport like plane, coach, train, and ship have been removed but passengers are required to wear face masks during the entire journey.

Sport events and crow gatherings are allowed on condition that participants must wear face masks.

The resumption of economic activities must closely follow compulsory requirements namely wearing face masks in public places and on means of mass transport, and washing hands regularly.

Mobilizing forces for economic recovery

The PM allows the reopening of some boundary paths and secondary gates (in the northern provinces of Lang Son and Quang Ninh) connecting China with high priority given to those having huge flows of goods.

The Ministries of Planning and Investment, Industry and Trade, Agriculture and Rural Development, and local authorities need to have plans for investment promotion in their localities.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is asked to build plans to boost inbound tourism and outbound tourism when possible.

PM Phuc emphasized that each individual and business should adapt to a “new normal” in life and in socio-economic development.

The Covid-19 count in Vietnam has reached 288 with the latest 17 cases being Vietnamese nationals repatriated from the UAE. More cases are expected in the coming days when the government brings overseas nationals back to the country, but they will be quarantined for at least 14 days upon arrival.