Vietnam sets September deadline for Covid situation control

The socio-economic situation in the past eight months has been greatly affected by the latest Covid outbreak.The highest priority should be given to establish control over the pandemic as early as possible because this is a decisive factor for economic recovery, he said at a cabinet meeting.

Given the current shortage of vaccines and low vaccination coverage, preventive measures are still required, including social distancing measures, the PM said.

"We must engage in scientific research and closely follow the actual situation to prepare measures to safely adapt to the pandemic in order to resume safe travel, safe production, and safe services," Chinh said.

He asked related agencies to develop a roadmap for economic recovery and growth in the scenario of widespread vaccination coverage.

The PM ordered a pilot program to attract international tourists to the southern island of Phu Quoc from now until the end of the year, expecting 2-3 million arrivals. Chinh also asked relevant agencies facilitate goods supply and distribution system, especially wholesale markets.

Deputy PM Le Van Thanh said that economic growth prospects depend a lot on the ability to control the epidemic. From now until September 15, ministries and other agencies need to develop a common master plan on opening up the economy, he said.

Vietnam has so far recorded 532,491 Covid-19 cases in the fourth wave that started April 27.