HONG KONG—After almost three years, Hong Kong said it will scrap its mask mandate starting March 1, removing one of the longest-running pandemic restrictions worldwide as the city tries to rebuild its image as an international financial center.
The city’s Chief Executive, John Lee, announced the move Tuesday, lifting a ban that had been criticized by some health experts for requiring people to wear masks in public places at all times, except during exercise and in country parks, even as most other Covid-19 restrictions had been gradually dismantled in recent months.
Masks will no longer be required whether indoors, outdoors or on public transport, Mr. Lee said. “The Covid epidemic in Hong Kong is under control with no sign of a big rebound,” Mr. Lee said, adding that there has been no outbreak among high-risk groups, such as people in hospitals, and that the influenza season is coming to an end. Premises considered high risk may still impose their own rules and require visitors to wear a mask, he said.