19 southern provinces and cities have been enforcing social distancing since Sunday under the Prime Minister’s Directive 16. Some localities will allow traditional open-air markets to operate with strict anti-pandemic measures set by the Health Ministry.

Pham Van Thieu, Chairman of the Bac Lieu provincial People’s Committee, said Directive 16 allows the operation of traditional markets, supermarkets, pharmacies, and drug stores.

“People should stay calm. Bac Lieu has the pandemic under control and normal activities are still taking place under the close supervision of the government. People must comply with all recommendations of the Ministry of Health, make a health declaration, and test for COVID-19, but activities are taking place as usual,” said Thieu.

In Tra Vinh province, supplies of essential commodities such as rice, noodles, meat, eggs, and milk have increased and prices have been stable.

Lu Quang Ngoi, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Vinh Long province, said fixed and mobile COVID-19 checkpoints have been established across the province. Trucks transporting essential goods are allowed to operate if they meet COVID-19 regulations.

Source: VOV5