Quick takes

Thailand to resume “Test and Go” scheme

The Thai government has decided to start its quarantine-free entry program for all vaccinated travellers as of 1st February. Thailand suspended the programme in December as a result of the omicron variant, but the country has experienced low hospitalization and mortality rates despite increased case numbers.

Hong Kong… it is difficult to know where to start

After recording case numbers barely in double digits, Hong Kong has closed gyms, secondary schools, dine-in restaurants (after 6pm) and so on. Then this week, the Hong Kong government made worldwide headlines by taking the decision to euthanise 2,000 hamsters after it made a very suspect claim about a hamster-to-human transmission of COVID-19. It is difficult to know how they can top that… but they will certainly give it a go.

Reed acquires U.K-based event

This is not an Asian deal, but worth noting that M&A activity is really picking up at this point. Reed Exhibitions announces the acquisition of 3rd Street Group, the owners and organisers of Big Data LDN.