"In the last few days, several Asia-Pacific States announced the reintroduction of COVID-19 testing and other restrictions applicable to travellers from China, including by India, Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia. This is a disappointing development and is a step backwards in the world's journey out of the Covid-19 endemic disease." said Philip Goh, Regional Vice President, IATA Asia-Pacific.
"We have thought that after nearly three years of dealing with Covid-19, governments would have learned to respond to developments based on science. We are today in a different situation from when COVID-19 first started three years ago. Vaccination levels are high and medical treatments are available for those requiring medical intervention.
Experience has shown that travel restrictions and testing requirements are ineffective in stopping the spread of Covid-19. They may merely delay it slightly. It is therefore disappointing to learn that governments have reverted to reimposing restrictions. Testing requirements have a negative impact on travel and their reintroduction will retard an anticipated strong rebound to and from China."
