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| Shoppers return as SARS levels off in HK |
| CCTV.COM 2003-05-05 09:05:53 |
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As the number of daily reported new SARS cases in Hong Kong has leveled off at around 10 for a straight week, it seems the disease is basically under control in the city of 6 million. Today, holiday shoppers are swarming the metropolis's main commercial areas. Business is booming, at least for some.
Causeway Bay is noisy, crowded, and exciting as usual. If not for the occasional sight of a face mask worn by a careful shopper in Hong Kong's most popular shopping district, you wouldn't think SARS stills lurks.
As in its pre－SARS days, activities such as fierce bargaining, window－shopping, and open－air dining are all in a day's business.
Some Hong Kong residents say that as SARS is being brought under control in the city, they want to spend their money to help the local economy.
"SARS is being controlled and it's not as terrible as before. So I went shopping with my kid," said a citizen.
"SARS is no longer that big a threat as before. We want to get together, have some fun. Staying at home is so dull," said another citizen.
"I came here today because SARS is no longer a big problem. Spending is good for Hong Kong's economy," said a shopper.
The street shops at the Causeway Bay are not the only beneficiary from this newly－gained enthusiasm. Grand shopping malls are also getting back into their former shape, gradually.
"When SARS peaked between the end of March and the beginning of April, customers have declined by over 20 percent. Now as the disease is controlled and steps are taken to improve public hygiene, customers have returned," said Lei Shuwen, sales manager of Hong Kong Times Square Co. Lt.
Compared to the end of March, customer flows in Hong Kong's major shopping malls have rebounded by 50 percent since the start of May. For precautions, face masks and sterilized tissues are distributed at the entrances. Escalators are disinfected after each trip. Lifts are serviced by masked and gloved staff.
Hong Kong's business circle say business won't fully recover for about three months. But for a city crazed about shopping, every bit of good news about SARS will mean business.
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Editor: Han Ling CCTV.com
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