As Hong Kong’s office leasing activity stutters, a renewed call to lift quarantine restrictions

LEASING activity has slumped to a new low in the posh, glass-windowed offices of Hong Kong’s pricey Grade A buildings, in yet another clear sign of the city’s slow climb back to its former glory as a financial centre.   

According to some industry analysts, one remedy that could deliver a quick boost to this lethargic industry – the phasing out of the punishing regimen of Covid-19 quarantine restrictions.  

Their comments came after the government’s recent move to shorten the compulsory 7-day hotel quarantine for all visitors to 3 days. In a research report, property consulting firm Colliers noted: “These measures are still stricter than Asian counterparts like Japan, South Korea and Singapore. For multinational corporations, Hong Kong becomes less favourable for the location of (their) regional headquarters.”