Hong Kong plans to relax some anti-Covid measures next month. It includes lifting a ban on flights from nine countries, reducing quarantine time for arrivals from abroad and reopening schools.

The moves, announced by Chief Executive Carrie Lam, could quieten some criticism from residents who have become increasingly frustrated with the city’s stringent measures, some of which have been in place for over two years. The flight ban would be lifted from April 1, while hotel quarantine for arrivals could be cut to seven days from 14 if residents tested negative, Lam told a news briefing. She had previously said measures would be in place until April 20.

Schools would resume face-to-face classes from April 19, after the Easter holidays, while public venues including sports facilities would also reopen from April 21, she said.