Ministry of Economic Development has published the regulations for the operation of businesses in the Greater Male’ Region amid the new restrictions imposed due to the surge of COVID-19 cases.
On May 24, Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) announced the extension of curfew hours in the Male’ area, stating the curfew will now run from 1600hrs until 0800hrs. HEOC revealed a permit would be required to go out at all times, including the non-curfew hours.
HEOC stated shops, cafes and restaurants will be able to provide delivery services from 0600hrs until 0000hrs. However, shops are not allowed to bring customers inside during curfew hours, and cafe/restaurants are not allowed to provide take-away services during curfew hours. Establishments violating the guideline are to be fined USD 325.
Following the announcement of new restrictions by HEOC, the economic ministry has published the revised regulation for operation of businesses in curfew and non-curfew hours. As per the regulations, businesses can apply for permits for their staff to attend work during the permitted hours. Every business can apply for permits for 2 support staff and 2 delivery staff. If additional staff are needed, the designated Excel sheet must be filled and emailed to the economic ministry.
The economic ministry further stated additional permits would not be required for vehicles used by staff to go to work or to provide delivery services. However, if a vehicle had previously been authorised for use in delivery services during curfew hours, the driver must still hold a permit from the economic ministry.