The Macau government has announced that in addition to the long-standing requirement for air and ferry passengers from the mainland (except those from Zhuhai) to present a nucleic acid test (NAT) certificate confirming a negative COVID-19 valid for seven days when boarding their flight or ferry, they are now also required to undergo a free nucleic acid test immediately upon arrival in Macau.

The new measure, which took effect at 1 a.m. yesterday, was announced by the Novel Coronavirus Response and Coordination Centre in a statement on Sunday night.

In addition, according to the statement, the travellers are now also required to undergo at least one nucleic acid test at their own expense within two days after arriving in Macau.

A paid COVID-19 nucleic acid test costs 50 patacas in Macau.

Currently, Macau runs passenger ferry services to Zhuhai’s Wanzai and Shenzhen’s Shekou.

Currently, all those entering Macau from Zhuhai must display an NAT certificate confirming a negative COVID-19 result valid for 48 hours.

The new measure that started yesterday does not apply to ferry passengers from Zhuhai.

Sunday’s statement said that the Macau Health Bureau (SSM) decided to roll out the new measure in response to the mainland latest COVID-19 developments.