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Macau begins COVID tests after new cases

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New COVID cases in Macao have prompted a shutdown of entertainment venues, but not casinos.
Camera IconNew COVID cases in Macao have prompted a shutdown of entertainment venues, but not casinos. Credit: EPA

The gambling hub of Macau will begin testing its 600,000 people and close some entertainment spots after the Chinese-ruled city confirmed four new coronavirus cases, its government says.

Macau has set up 41 nucleic acid testing stations across the city which will run non-stop for at least three days, which is the estimated required period, the statement said on Wednesday.

Appointments would not be needed, it said.

Separately, the government said cinemas, theatres, indoor playgrounds, bowling alleys, massage parlours, bars, nightclubs, and other such venues would be closed from midnight.

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Macau's casinos, the city's main economic engine and source of revenues, remain open.

The casinos were forced to suspend operations for two weeks last year due to the coronavirus. Although they have reopened, business remains subdued as travel restrictions discourage affluent gamblers from entering Macau.

Macau has registered only 59 coronavirus cases and recorded no deaths so far, according to Hong Kong government data.

Hong Kong's government said it removed Macau from its list of places from which residents could return to the finance hub without the need for quarantine.

That 'Return2HK' list now only contains places from mainland China.

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