Gov’t business restrictions a challenge for smaller firms

Local employees are overwhelmed by the government’s strict arrangements for work during this consolidation period.

The government has gradually lifted restrictions on industrial and commercial activities after entering the consolidation period Saturday.

Most companies are allowed to operate under several provisos, such as no more than 50% of employees being able to work at the same time, as well as social distancing measures.

The operator of a clock shop in the central area surnamed Chao questioned the requirements, saying they were not calibrated for lower-level employees. 

“Residents going out shopping for four to five hours do not need a daily nucleic acid test (NAT), but the employee who works for eight hours a day has to do a daily NAT?” Chao asked. 

Responding to government advice that employees should eat meals at home and avoid dining in the office, the clock shop worker said that the requirements are not clear and specific, and do not consider whether the requirements are feasible for smaller firms.

“Most small shops generally only have one staff member,” said Chao.

Earlier this week, Lawmaker Leong Sun Iok remarked that most reports he received regarding problems with labor rights, eating arrangements and accommodation were from gaming employees. 

According to the Federal General Commercial Association of Macau Small and Medium Enterprises vice president Lo Wang Chun, general office buildings have the conditions to meet government requirements, and he believes that the employees will be able to have separate meal times.

However, he is concerned about the situation for street traders, noting that associated gatherings may risk spreading the coronavirus.

“I paid attention to the situation on the street, and I found that there were many people lining up for shopping, and many people queuing up for Portuguese tarts in Coloane. I’m worried that people gathering will hinder pandemic prevention work,” said Lo. Staff Reporter