Andina

Peru: Business capacity may be increased if cases keep dropping and no 2nd wave occurs

Photo. ANDINA/Archive

Photo. ANDINA/Archive

15:18 | Lima, Dec. 11.

Peruvian Production Minister Jose Luis Chicoma on Friday announced that the reopening of additional businesses —such as movie theaters, gyms, and gaming houses— faces the great challenge of balancing health and economic reactivation objectives.

"We are facing a great challenge of balancing health objectives —which are critical and essential for controlling the pandemic— and the economic reactivation at the same time, by creating spaces that allow a gradual, progressive, and responsible reopening of activities, such as movie theaters and gyms," he said in statements to RPP radio and TV station.

"These activities —in enclosed and crowded spaces where there is close contact (with others)— can become sources for infection," the minister stated.

"It is very difficult to satisfy all the actors involved. However, I reiterate that our main objective is to take care of people's health and promote the (economic) reactivation," he added.

According to Chicoma, measures are being taken to facilitate the reopening, but considering the opinion of health and epidemic experts, so that the process can be carried out in a more responsible way.

Movie theaters 

The high-ranking official noted that movie theaters —which have been closed during the pandemic— are facing a complex situation, also considering that competing streaming services (such as Netflix) are becoming more attractive due to safety reasons.

"In the case of movie theaters. Last Sunday, we published a regulation authorizing the reopening of these activities, including cinemas, theaters, gyms, and casinos, at 40% capacity (in enclosed spaces)," he indicated.

(END) CNA/JJN/RMB/MVB

Published: 12/11/2020