Health Ministry to propose re-opening dine-in services to vaccinated customers

Thailand’s Health Ministry is to propose allowing restaurants in dark red zones to re-open for in-house dining from September. Kiattiphum Wongrajit says the proposal is based on declining case numbers in recent days.

“The Covid-19 situation appears to be improving. Certain restrictions should therefore be lifted.”

The Bangkok Post reports that the Health Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has met with representatives from 9 business sectors affected by Covid-19 closures across 29 provinces. Kiattiphum says that following the meeting, the ministry has decided to ask the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration to approve the re-opening of dine-in services for fully vaccinated customers.

It’s understood the re-opening, if approved, would have restrictions attached, including limiting restaurants to half their capacity. Businesses will be required to implement disease prevention measures, including allowing enough space for social distancing and adequate ventilation of the premises. Staff must be encouraged to get vaccinated and submit to regular Covid-19 tests.

According to the Bangkok Post report, Supanavit Eiamsakulrat from the Thai Shopping Centre Association says the 9 affected business sectors have asked the ministry for permission to re-open gradually from September 1.

During the first phase, restaurants would be allowed to re-open for dine-in services at 50% capacity. In phase 2, this would be extended to 75% capacity, and in the third phase, restaurants would be permitted to re-open fully.

Meanwhile, it’s also being proposed that a number of other businesses be allowed to re-open in phase 1. They include construction, medical and dental clinics, spa and massage parlours, beauty salons, outdoor sports facilities, IT and electronics shops, furniture and home décor shops, and golf courses.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post