Starting from December 9, use of the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app will be extended to all premises regulated under the Prevention & Control of Disease (Requirements & Directions) (Business & Premises) Regulation, the Government announced today.

From that day onwards, all customers or users must scan the LeaveHomeSafe venue QR code, using the mobile app before entering the premises.

The Government will closely liaise with the relevant trades in the coming two weeks to ensure the smooth implementation of the measure. The public should comply with the requirement to further enhance the anti-epidemic capacity of Hong Kong.

Meanwhile, the social distancing measures currently in place will be maintained for 14 days until December 8.

The decision came amid the severe COVID-19 pandemic situation across the world, the Government said, noting that it strives to foster favourable conditions for resuming cross-boundary travel with the Mainland and cross-border travel in future.

In view of the increasingly smooth operation of the “cruise-to-nowhere” itineraries and the set of stringent health control safeguards adopted by the cruise lines, starting from December 1, the passenger capacity limit of cruise ships will be adjusted from 50% to 75% of the normal capacity.

With vaccination a crucial part of the local anti-epidemic strategy, the Government will review and implement additional measures to increase the vaccination rate, including the possibility of extending the scope of the "vaccine bubble" and closely monitor the vaccination enhancement measures adopted in the Mainland and overseas.