COVID-19 Measures Lifted: A Fresh Outlook on Eased Lockdown Regulations
Absolutely, mate! Let's break down the current situation regarding COVID-19 restrictions for trade shows in Germany.
After a two-year standstill due to the pandemic, Germany is easing up on restrictions, and trade shows are gearing up for a comeback! The minister presidents of the German states and Chancellor Olaf Scholz agreed to lift nationwide Corona restrictions as of March 20, but it's essential to note that no explicit mention of trade fairs has been cited yet.
Despite that, several German states have already begun to lift restrictions on trade fairs, with Baden-Württemberg and Lower Saxony leading the way. As of February 23, Baden-Württemberg dropped from alert to warning level, making trade shows possible under 3G conditions (vaccinated, recovered, or negative test required). Lower Saxony, too, ended its so-called hibernation on the same day, allowing fairs to resume under 3G access rules.
On February 19, Nordrhein-Westfalen lifted the ban on major consumer fairs, while Saxony had already lifted its ban on trade fairs prior to the agreement on February 16. You can find a continually updated overview of state regulations on trade fairs on the AUMA's website.
The federal and state governments have planned to ease restrictions in three stages by March 20. Certain restrictions have been lifted immediately, including access restrictions for visitors and exhibitors and capacity limits for exhibition halls. As of March 19, only basic protective measures like masking and standoff regulations will remain.
There's great news for the travel industry, too! Entry into Germany is becoming easier, with high-risk areas being cancelled for approximately 20 countries already. This means that many foreign trade fair participants who have been vaccinated with vaccines not recognized in Germany will be allowed to enter the country without a 5-day restriction.
Lastly, starting March 4, access to restaurants and accommodations will be allowed for those who are vaccinated, cured, and tested (on a daily basis). This means that trade fair visitors from abroad who are considered unvaccinated can once again stay overnight in hotels and restaurants in all federal states.
Stay updated and keep your eyes peeled for any updates from official sources or event organizers for specific trade shows in Germany!
With the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions in Germany, trade shows are eagerly preparing for a resurgence, signifying a return to a more normal lifestyle. Simultaneously, the travel industry gains momentum as entry into Germany becomes less restrictive for many countries, enhancing the ability for international trade fair participants to attend events.
