Japan Considers Exempting COVID-19 Tests Before Entry

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] On the 22nd, Nihon Keizai Shimbun and others reported that the Japanese government is considering exempting the COVID-19 test required upon entry and return. They are discussing a phased relaxation plan, such as exemption for those who have completed vaccination, along with adjusting the cap on the number of entrants.

According to the report, Japan currently sets the daily entry cap at 20,000 people and requires a negative COVID-19 test certificate within 72 hours before departure.

Nihon Keizai pointed out, "Among the Group of Seven (G7) countries, Japan has the strictest measures, and there have been concerns that it is becoming difficult to obtain certificates in countries where testing systems are being reduced," adding, "It has been criticized that business trips or travel abroad from Japan are difficult and that it poses obstacles to accepting some foreign visitors who have resumed entry."

The Japanese government is also considering limiting the detailed reporting to medical institutions regarding symptoms and vaccination status to elderly people or those at high risk of severe illness with underlying conditions, in relation to the overall COVID-19 situation. NHK reported that this is a measure to reduce the burden on the field as COVID-19 resurges.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said at a remote press conference held the previous day regarding COVID-19 response, "We will respond quickly to realize the coexistence of infection prevention and socio-economic activities as much as possible," and added, "We will soon present additional measures to reduce the burden on public health centers and medical institutions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.