Travel restrictions in Laos lifted as more curbs eased

THE government has lifted travel restrictions to enable people to travel freely around the country as Laos eases more Covid-19 prevention measures to minimise the impact on livelihoods and the economy.

The Prime Minister’s Office on Friday issued the latest announcement on the easing of lockdown measures – the second such relaxation of the rules since the lockdown was introduced on April 1.

As of Sunday, there had been no new Covid-19 cases for 35 consecutive days. The total number of cases recorded remains at 19, including 14 people who have been discharged from hospital.

Under the latest announcement, all forms of interprovincial public transport by land, water and air may resume operation.

Party and state offices and businesses may also resume operations as normal. However, in situations where staff can work from home, they may continue to do so.

Official training courses, meetings and seminars may take place, but celebratory parties are prohibited.

Ministries were told to reopen final-year classes at primary, lower and upper secondary schools yesterday. Other classes at all educational institutions may reopen on June 2.

All indoor and outdoor sporting activities are permitted. Trading and service businesses may resume operations. These include restaurants, shops selling cooked food, retail and wholesale outlets, barber shops, beauty salons, fresh markets, supermarkets, massage and spa service providers, and car washing services.

Development projects, companies and factories are also permitted to resume operations.