Cicero/AMO COVID-19 EU and global update - private

Page 1

da


Contents (clickable links to each section) Coordinated European response European Central Bank (ECB)

Page 3

European Union

Page 3

European Investment Bank (EIB) / European Investment Fund (EIF)

Page 6

European Banking Authority (EBA) & European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)

Page 6/7

Country by country analysis (EU) Austria Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czechia Denmark Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Italy Ireland Latvia

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Global: Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 21

Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden

Page 28 Page 29 Page 31 Page 31 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 37 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41

Page 23

Australia Brazil Canada China Hong Kong India Japan Switzerland Singapore Taiwan United Kingdom United States

Page 43 Page 47 Page 48 Page 48 Page 50 Page 51 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 58 Page 63

Page 24 Page 24 Page 26 Page 28

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 2


COVID-19 EU and Global Response Coordinated European Response Institution

Supporting measures

European Central Bank (ECB)

• • • •

• • • • • •

European Union (EU)

Emergency regulations

N/A In its semi-annual financial stability report, the ECB found that the pandemic has increased risks to financial stability and that Euro are banks are likely to face significant losses and further pressure on profitability. Implemented further measures that will allow banks to borrow money from the ECB at negative rates. Adopted temporary measures to mitigate the impact of possible rating downgrades on collateral. The measures are complementary to the previous collateral easing package. Launched the Pandemic Emergency Purchase Programme (PEPP) which is a temporary asset purchase programme for private and public sector securities worth €750bn. The package aims to lessen the impact of COVID-19 on the economy. A waiver is included for securities issued by the Greek Government and the range of eligible assets will be expanded to include non-financial commercial paper. ECB President Lagarde has stated that “there are no limits our commitment to the euro.” Adopted a package of temporary collateral easing measures to help mitigate the tightening of financial conditions in the euro area. This will increase the availability of eligible collateral for Eurosystem counterparties to take part i liquidity providing operations. Held deposit rate at its existing level of minus 0.5 per cent. Purchase €120bn more bonds by the end of year, on top of its existing commitment to buy €20bn a month. Asset purchases would be focused on corporate bond markets. Launch of a new programme of cheap loans to banks to encourage lending. The ECB has decided to impose little-to-no constraints on this asset purchase programme when compared to previous similar initiatives. Namely, the ECB can purchase more than one third of any Member States eligible bonds which should help support the most impacted countries. Existing longer-term refinancing operations will be made “considerably more favourable” by offering loans to banks below the ECB’s sub-zero deposit rate and as cheaply as minus 0.75 per cent.

Commission: • Proposed its ‘Next Generation’ tool which aims to serve as the EU’s central recovery plan. The €750 billion recovery tool will be embedded in a reinforced EU budget which will also be used as part of the economic recovery plan, bringing the total size of the proposed next EU budget to €1.85 trillion.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

EU leaders have agreed to apply a temporary restriction to the Schengen-zone’s external borders. Member States have been invited to extend the restriction until June 15th.

Cicero/AMO / 3


Institution

Supporting measures

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Emergency regulations

Published a package of guidelines and recommendations to Member States on lifting travel restrictions and facilitate the reopening of the tourism industry. Expanded the temporary state aid framework enabling Member States to provide recapitalisations and subordinated debt to companies. Pledged €1.4 billion during the Coronavirus Global Response pledging event. The fund will be used to develop and deploy effective diagnostics, treatments and a vaccine. Adopted a package of measures that will support the agri-food sector. The measures include private storage aid for dairy and meat, temporary authorisation to self-organise market measures by operators, and flexibility in the implementation of market support programmes. Proposed country-specific recommendations to Member States on economic policy in the context of the coronavirus pandemic, focused on the most urgent challenges brought about by the pandemic and on relaunching sustainable growth. The guidance comes as part of the European Semester Spring Package. Proposed minor amendments to the EU's banking prudential rules (the Capital Requirements Regulation) in order to maximise the ability of banks to lend and absorb losses related to COVID-19 pandemic. Issued guidance on how to ensure the health and safety of workers when returning to the workplace. The Commission has developed and issued a toolbox for the use of mobile applications for contact tracing and warning as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Issued a roadmap for a coordinated European lifting of containment measures. Recommended to Schengen Member States to extend the temporary restriction on non-essential travel into the EU. Additionally, outlined strategies to use mobile data and apps to support lifting containment measures. Issued a temporary framework to provide guidance on antitrust to allow limited cooperation among business. Proposed a €100bn ‘solidarity fund’ that would provide loans to Member States to ensure that workers receive income and businesses retain staff. Loans would be guaranteed by Member States. Provided €1bn from the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) to serve as a guarantee to the European Investment Fund to incentivize banks and lenders to provide liquidity to SMEs. Lifted customs duties and VAT on the medical devices and protective equipment imported from third countries. Commission proposed the activation of the general escape clause of the Stability and Growth Pact to depart from the budgetary requirements that normally apply under the European fiscal framework which will allow for higher budget deficits.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

The restrictions exempt EU nationals as well as Schengen Associated States (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland). UK citizens will be treated the same as EU citizens until the end of the transition period. A further exemption applies to travelers with an essential need or function, including frontier workers, healthcare professionals, diplomats, passengers in transit, passengers travelling for family reasons and persons in need of humanitarian protection.

Cicero/AMO / 4


• •

€37bn Corona Response investment initiatives directed at health care systems, SMEs, labour markets and other vulnerable parts of economy. A further €29bn has also been made available through access to 2020 structural funding across the EU. The European Parliament and Council have now approved the package which has been available from 1 April. The Commission has adopted a Temporary State Aid Framework to enable Member States to use the full flexibility foreseen under state aid rules to support the economy in the COVID-19 context. The Commission is now consulting Member States further on the extending the framework to include recapitalisation measures. Given limited size of the EU budget, main support will come from Member States’ national budgets. This provides for: o Direct grants, selective tax advantages and advance payments; granting up to €800,000 to a company to address urgent liquidity needs o State guarantees for loans taken by companies from banks o Subsidised loans to companies: Member States will be able to grant loans with favourable interest rates to companies. These can help businesses cover immediate working capital and investment needs. o Safeguards for banks that channel State aid to the real economy: o Short term export credit insurance New Commission guidelines on passenger rights defining the coronavirus as an extraordinary circumstance, excusing airlines from paying passengers for cancelled or delayed flights (EC also said disruptions to schedules make it difficult or impossible to re-route cancelled flights at the earliest opportunity, normally an obligation for airlines). Proposed to use €75 million from the EU budget to help Member States repatriate EU nationals and increase the budget of the RescEU medical stockpile. The European Commission has produced guidance on safe return to work throughout the EU. Although not binding to Member States, it may influence exit strategies still under consideration.

European Council (Heads of state)/Eurogroup/ECOFIN Leaders approved the €540 billion package measures negotiated by finance ministers: • €240 billion in ESM credit lines up to 2% of a Member States GDP to be made available with little-to-no requirements attached; • €100 billion to establish a temporary loan-based instrument for financial assistance (SURE) to protect employment; and • Approved the European Investment Bank’s €200 billion fund of loans for companies in the EU.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 5


Institution

Supporting measures

Emergency regulations

Member States agreed to suspend obligations to the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) to allow funds to be used to mitigate the economic downturn in light of COVID-19 Agreed on measures to minimise the effects of the pandemic on the most vulnerable EU citizens through changes to the fund for aid to the most deprived (FEAD). All national authorities will allow automatic stabilisers to function in addition to implement necessary measures needed to tackle the economic consequences including: • Fiscal measures of up to 1% of GDP on average for 2020 economy support, in addition to automatic stabilisers. • Liquidity facilities of 10% of GDP consisting of public guarantee scheme and deferred tax payments. • Immediate fiscal spending targeted at containment and treatment of the disease • Liquidity support for firms facing severe disruptions, especially SMEs and firms in affected sectors including transport and tourism, to include tax measures, public guarantees etc. • Support for affected workers to avoid unemployment and income losses European Investment Bank (EIB) / European Investment Fund (EIF)

• • • •

European Banking • Authority (EBA) •

N/A Through €1bn guarantee from the EFSI, the EIF will be able to unlock €8bn of financing for SMEs. Further enhancing and accelerating the impact of the available resources, through collaboration with National Development Banks. Approved the creation of €25 billion pan-European guarantee fund to support up to €200 billion in funding for the European Economy. The EIB & EIF (EIB Group) are together proposing the following financing package: o Dedicated guarantee schemes to banks based on existing programmes for immediate deployment, mobilising up to €20 billion, of financing. o Dedicated liquidity lines to banks to ensure additional working capital support for SMEs and midcaps of €10 billion. o Dedicated asset-backed securities (ABS) purchasing programmes to allow banks to transfer risk on portfolios of SME loans, mobilising another EUR 10 billion of support. Issued further guidance on supervisory flexibility with regard to market risk, the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP), recovery planning, digital operational resilience and ICT risk and securitisation. EU-wide stress test postponed to 2021 to allow banks to prioritise operational continuity.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

N/A

Cicero/AMO / 6


Institution

Supporting measures

• •

• • • European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)

• •

Emergency regulations

EBA recommends to national competent authorities to use all available flexibility in the banking regulatory framework. The EBA has further clarified that it expects institutions to not pay dividends, buy back shares, and assess their variable remuneration (bonus) policy given the current economic climate. Issued statements proposing further clarity and measures to banks, consumers, and payment service providers: o Called for “flexibility and pragmatism” on the application of the prudential regulatory framework and highlighted that in cases of debt moratoria “there is no automatic classification in default, forborne, or IFRS9 status.” o Stressed that lenders must act in the interest of consumers. o Raise the contactless payment limit up to EUR 50. Additionally, all consultation deadlines will be extended by two months, all currently scheduled public hearings will be postponed, and extended the remittance date for funding plans data. Called on national authorities to support financial institutions anti-money laundering efforts by sharing information on emerging risks. Issued guidelines on the treatment of public and private moratoria Issued a statement calling for transparency on the impact of COVID-19 in semi-annual financial reports. Announced it expects competent authorities not to prioritise their supervisory actions towards entities subject to Securities Finance Transactions (SFT) reporting obligations as of 13 April 2020 and until 13 July 2020. Clarified that it expects firms to take all possible steps to ensure call taping under MiFID II but given the exceptional circumstances that it may not be “practicable.” In these cases firms are expected to explore alternative steps. Issued guidance to issuers and auditors on the application of IFRS 9.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

N/A

Cicero/AMO / 7


Lockdown Exit Strategy Key: Red ↑: No exit strategy adopted, increase in restrictions or lockdown recently extended Yellow →: Exit strategy adopted but measures not currently (or substantially) being lifted Green ↓: Substantial easing of restrictions Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Austria

Green ↓

Measures being lifted • •

• •

1 May: All shops open under protective measures. 15 May: Restaurants and cafes reopened; up to four adults are allowed to sit at a table. Religious services resume. Museums and exhibitions reopen with social distancing requirements in place 18 May: Schools begin to reopen in phases. 29 May: Holiday accommodation, tourist attractions, leisure facilities and swimming pools to reopen. Indoor and outdoor events with up to 100 people permitted. 12 June: Border controls and travel restrictions with Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Czechia, Slovakia and Hungary lift. 1 July: Events with up to 250 people permitted.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel restrictions Border controls with all neighbouring countries. Entry to Austria from Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Czechia, Slovakia and Hungary permitted at all open border crossings. Entry from Italy and Slovenia only permitted at certain border crossings.

• • • • •

Entry of third country nationals by air from outside the Schengen area • suspended with some exemptions. All entrants required to show evidence they have tested negative for Covid-19 – failure to do • so will result in a 14-day quarantine, or, for non-EEA • travellers, denial of entry.

Cases confirmed and fatalities

16,557 cases Aid package totalling up to €38 bn including €4bn in immediate aid to 643 fatalities cover bridge loans and credit guarantees to protect businesses’ liquidity. €15bn to be made available in loans and grants to support companies suffering from declining sales Funds for short-time work increased to €12 billion. Tax deferrals Bridging guarantees and liabilities to secure loans Austrian Stamp Duty Act to be amended to exempt businesses from administrative fees and duties for all documents and official procedures Hardship fund for one-person companies and small businesses doubled to 2 billion euros, criteria expanded to include more businesses from 27 April. Bonus payments to employees for services during crisis to be tax free. Federal government to cover wage costs of those with pre-existing conditions.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 8


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

1 August: Events with up to 500 Travellers transiting Austria • without stopping are not people permitted. subject to these restrictions. Restrictions still in place • Holiday accommodation remains Internal travel restrictions • closed; schools are reopening in phases and border controls Restrictions remain on remain in place. entering and leaving the • Theatres, cinemas are still Tirol region remain – only closed. residents, critical workers, Protective measures adopted and those entering for • Gatherings of only up to 10 family reasons are people permitted. permitted to enter. Tirol’s • A minimum distance of 1 borders with Italy, metre required in public Switzerland and Germany places. are closed. • Facemasks mandatory in supermarkets and on public transport as well as enclosed public places. • Facemasks mandatory in private vehicles when passengers are not from the same household; one metre distance must be maintained between passengers. Belgium

Green ↓

Measures being lifted: • Three phase exit strategy adopted 24 April.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: • Non-essential travel abroad prohibited. •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

A ‘pub package’ worth €500 million to support local gastronomy, including a reduction in tax on non-alcoholic beverages until the end of 2020. Federal government provides a municipal package in the amount of 1 billion euros that promotes investments of up to 50% and includes, among other things, the construction and renovation of kindergartens, schools, retirement homes and sports facilities, as well as investments in public transport, energy saving measures, the construction of renewable energy production facilities and the expansion of the broadband network. The period runs until December 31, 2021.

Support available from Federal Tax Ministry, applications need to be finalised by 30 June Payment plans for social security contributions

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

57,592 cases 9,364 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 9


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Bulgaria

Green ↓

Aid package

Belgium entered the second phase on 11 May and further eased restrictions on 18 May. • Most businesses and shops reopened under protective measures from May 11. • Hairdressers, open-air markets, museums open. • Social gatherings between the same groups of four people permitted. • Schools re-opened for certain classes as of 25 May. Restrictions still in place: • Restaurants, bars, cafes and non-essential businesses remain closed (expected for third phase on 8 June) • Taxis and private cars can only transport 1 person in addition to the driver (unless they are members of the same family). Passengers must sit in the back seats to ensure sufficient distance from the driver.

Belgian borders are closed to all but freight and travellers on essential business.

Internal travel: Citizens required to stay at home except for essential travel.

Measures being lifted • Citizens no longer need to wear masks in public spaces. • 27 April: Some medical services resumed and urban parks and gardens partially re-opened

External travel restrictions

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Flemish government provides tax-free grants to businesses and €160 a day for required closure and support for industries particularly affected including tourism. €4000 subsidy for Brussels businesses forced to close.

Public transportation remains open.

Unnecessary travel advised against. Entry to Bulgaria banned for all except for

2,460 cases Draft budget approved raising the borrowing ceiling to 10bn leva in order 133 fatalities to cover increased government spending.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 10


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

• •

6 May: Visits to outdoor shopping areas (gardens, terraces, etc.) of restaurants, fast food establishments, drinking establishments and coffee shops permitted. 13 May: State of emergency lifted. 14 May: Open-air cultural events and amateur outdoor sports permitted to resume with strict limits on participants. Hotels and restaurants with gardens and terraces permitted to reopen. 18 May: Shopping malls and gyms reopen with social distancing requirements in place. 22 May: Kindergartens and nurseries to reopen. Indoor and outdoor sporting activity will be permitted individuals and children up to 18 will be permitted to porting activities for individuals and children up to the age of 18. 25 May: Lifiting of quarantine requirement for Bulgarian bus and lorry drivers entering the country. 1 June: Travel between Bulgaria and Greece and Serbia to be allowed with no 14-day

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

travellers from 19 EU • Member States, with exceptions for returning Bulgarian citizens and those • with long-term residence permits. Ban in place until 14 June. • All entrants to Bulgaria subject to 14-day quarantine

Internal travel restrictions None .

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Businesses asked not to lay people off, government to cover 60% of salary Bulgarian Development Bank able to temporarily acquire stakes in affected businesses Equity of Bulgarian Development Bank increased by up to 700 million to support SMEs affected by the pandemic Deadline for filing and paying corporate tax returns and submission of annual activity report extended to 30 June; deadline for publication of annual financial statements extended. Government has approved a programme of interest-free loans of up to 4500 leva to those who lose their jobs. BGN 4.5 billion will be made available for SMEs, self-employed and people on unpaid leave. VAT for restaurants, catering and places of entertainment will be reduced to 9% from later this year.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 11


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

quarantine period. Restaurants and bars to be allowed to reopen. Restrictions still in place • Restaurants with no outdoor space remain closed. • Open-air markets remain closed. • Stricter measures remain in place in Plovdiv. • The school year will end via distance learning • 1.5m distance must be kept outdoors. Croatia

Green ↓

Measures being lifted • 27 April: all shops except shopping malls reopen and most service activities resume. Libraries and museums reopen. • 2 May: Some post offices reopen. • 4 May: Cosmetic services resume, and the public health system reopens. • 5 May: Children's playgrounds, outdoor sports fields and other outdoor sports facilities may be used subject to social distancing rules. • 11 May: Air travel reintroduced. Gatherings of 10 people

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel restrictions

• •

EU citizens allowed to return to country of origin. Some foreign entrants permitted, for business or if the visit is in the economic interest of Croatia. Tourists must prove reservation of holiday accommodation. Limited crossing points for freight vehicles between Croatia and Slovenia. Temporary suspension of border crossings with Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2 April. Two-week

• •

• •

2,244 cases Price controls imposed 101 fatalities Moratorium on repayment of small business loans until 31 December Loans for liquidity possible for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises Deferral of tax payments and tax debts for those in difficulty – entrepreneurs able to file claims from 24 March Interest-free loans to regional and municipal funds, the Croatian Pension and Insurance Funds to cover amount deferred. Moratorium on repayment of personal loans Interest-free deferral of payment of tax liabilities incurred during the pandemic and due to special circumstances

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 12


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• • •

permitted, shopping malls and some educational facilities reopened, outdoor catering services permitted. National parks and museums reopened. Restrictions on intercity travel lifted. 13 May: Gyms permitted to operate. 19 May: Visits to care homes permitted. 27 May: Private gatherings of 100 indoors and 300 outdoors will be allowed.

quarantine required for all foreign and Croatian nationals.

Aid package

Rescue package of 1.6 billion HRK to cover salaries

€1.5bn support package for businesses

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Internal travel restrictions None

Restrictions still in place • All the phases sustain social distancing rules, hygienic working conditions, ban of public and large gatherings, face mask recommendations and stay-athome recommendation for the at-risk groups. Protective measures adopted • Limit of 40 people for public gatherings • Weddings and funerals only permitted for immediate family

Cyprus

Green ↓

Measures being lifted:

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel:

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

939 cases, 17 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 13


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Czechia

Green ↓

Lockdown extended until the end of April. Health Minister Ioannou announced that the relaxation of lockdown measures will be discussed on a biweekly basis. First phases of exit strategy began on May 4 and May 21 respectively. First phase includes the removal of restrictions in manufacturing, retail and tourist agencies with high hygiene standards. Schools reopening by 11 May. Phase 2: The initial easements starting today will include allowing people to gather in groups of 10 and the reopening of outdoor catering businesses. On 23 May beaches will reopen and finally, 1 June will entail the reopening of libraries, museums, archaeological sites and ports (excluding cruise ships).

Measures being lifted • 27 April: Shops up to 2500 square metres reopen • 11 May: Shopping centres, restaurants with gardens open. Social, sports and cultural events and weddings of up to 100

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

Access restrictions, nationals tested on arrival and enter a compulsory 2week government quarantine. All tourists banned. Deputy Tourism Minsiter Savvas Perdios announced the country will gradually lift restrictions and reopen airports on 9 June

Maximum of three people allowed in a vehicle at the same time.

• • • •

External travel restrictions From 26 May, all borders crossing with Austria and Germany are opened with random checks.

Cases confirmed and fatalities

No VAT payments for 2 months for affected companies. General VAT rate reduced from 19% to 17% over the same period. Government subsidises 70% of employee salaries for affected SMEs. Suspension of loan payments from financial institutions and government guarantees on loans totalling to €2bn. €2.6bn liquidity injection through bond issuance. New employee aid package agreed upon 23 April to help support most hard-stricken workers. The government will be announced new measures to support the country’s economy Wednesday 27 May.

Waiver of late payment of corporate income tax return until 1 July, remission of June advance on corporate income tax General waiver of tax and charge accessories and possibility to delay tax payments

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

9,004 7ses, 317 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 14


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

people allowed. Cross-border bus and rail transport permitted. Air traffic remains limited. 25 May: Cafes, restaurants and pubs to reopen. Events of up to 300 people permitted. People will not be required to wear facemasks outdoors as long as they maintain a two-metre distance from others. Masks will still be required indoors, on public transport and when meeting groups of people who are not household members. 8 June: Events of up to 500 people permitted 22 June: events of up to 1000 people permitted.

Restrictions still in place • Educational facilities closed.

All road and rail crossings re-opened. Visitors must still show proof of a negative test for COVID-19 to enter the country. More Czech airports open for flights within the Schengen area. However, the country remains closed to tourists. From 27 May, Czechs will be able to travel to Slovakia without a test and without having to undergo quarantine but will have to return home within 48 hours.

Aid package

• • •

• • • •

• •

• Denmark

Green↓

Measures being lifted: • Several restrictions have been lifted so far. • Shops are now allowed to reopen.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: • Business travel allowed from May 25th. Border closures eased for residents • of Germany and the Nordic countries to allow holiday

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Six-month break in health and social insurance contributions for selfemployed people Wage compensation measures Central Bank released from existing restrictions that currently limit it to trading instruments with maturities of up to a year Covid-19 loan programme One-off compensation for selfemployed workers approved. Moratorium on repayment of loans and mortgages for consumers and businesses. The government has extended the fund allowing employers to claim for costs incurred for compensation of employees' wages to the end of May. Partners in small companies will be able to apply for a 500-crown allowance. Companies with up to 500 employees affected by Covid-19 will be able to apply to banks for state-guaranteed loans. 5 billion crowns to support entrepreneurs pay rent. €200 million loan to support the Travel 11,480 cases 565 fatalities Guarantee Fund in light of cancellations €25bn support package for bank lending

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 15


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) • •

Schools and day-care have reopened. Hairdressers, beauty salons and driving schools have reopened from April 20th. . Nightclubs, bars, restaurants, malls, department stores, sporting and leisure facilities, and public cultural institutions have reopened from 18 May. From May 27, zoos, aquariums, museums, theatres, art galleries, cinemas have reopened as well as music and cultural schools. Outdoor amusement parks and summer activities for children and young people have resumed.

Restrictions still in place • Indoor sport not allowed • No reopening of discos and nightlife venues

Aid package

owners and family members • to enter Denmark. 14-day quarantine for all other citizens returning to Denmark.

On May 29, Denmark will announce new decisions on • borders control and entry into Denmark – including for • tourism industry. • • • •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Increased framework for governmentguaranteed loan scheme for large companies and SMEs that are projected to experience minimum of 30% in revenue loss State aid for struggling companies: funding 75% of salaries if layoffs avoided. €130mn Danish guarantee scheme for SMEs affected Liquidity scheme for Danish SME sized export companies Temporary compensation for company’s fixed expenses Temporary pay compensation for affected businesses €1.3bn scheme for self-employed, including compensation for 75% of expected loss turnover New loan scheme for SMEs to strengthen liquidity with a total of up to €4.7bn. Loans will be interest free and will have to be repaid on April 1st 2021.

Protective measures adopted: • Denmark has laid out plans for increased testing and a contact tracing system. Health authorities will begin more actively tracing people who may have been in contact with

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 16


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Estonia

Yellow →

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

infected people and if necessary, isolate them in empty hotels. Restaurants will need to respect hygiene rules and one-meter distance requirement

Measures being lifted: • Government has agreed on seven metrics to measure when an exit is called for (including number of hospitalised, number of infected, healthcare capacity, etc.). • Minister of Finance Martin Helme announced that it is expected that the lockdown will continue into May and June. • The country has begun reopening healthcare services, and reopened schools 15 May. Open-air museums, outside sports and hobbies are expected to follow. • The country will be introducing a digital immunity passport to help the reopening of its economy.

Borders closed. • The three Baltic states have • come to an agreement to lift restrictions on travel amongst themselves which • started 15 May. Health ministers from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are discussing the possibility of uniform rules for travellers to the Baltics from other countries.

Short and long term aid package. State funds channelled through KredEx and the Rural Development Foundation of €1.75bn. Government subsidises 70% of employee salaries for affected businesses from March to May. Calculation of interest on the corporate tax debt is suspended for emergency period Temporary suspension of Pillar II payments.

1,840 cases 66 fatalities

Furthermore, Finnish citizens, or those with a residence permit or holding a Finnish permanent residency and without any symptoms of the illness may enter Estonia more frequently than previously.

Restrictions still in place: • All meetings of more than 2 banned. People are ordered to keep 2-meters apart. Schools,

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 17


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

entertainment venues and shopping centres closed. Finland

Yellow →

Measures being lifted: • Finland has adopted a “hybrid strategy” to gradually lift the restrictive measures in place • Outdoor recreational facilities will be opened. Schools were allowed to reopen from May 14th, but universities are advised to continue distance teaching until the end of the semester. • From June 1st, the gradual reopening of restaurants will begin, sports competitions can resume, public indoor premises such as museums, pools will be reopened. Meetings with up to 50 people will be allowed. • Public events with more than 500 attendees are prohibited until July 31st.

External travel: International travellers from the EU Schengen Area may enter Finland from 14 May onwards if they have a permanent work contract in Finland or essential reason to do so. Proof of employment needs to be presented at the border when entering Finland. Those entering Finland are expected to remain in quarantine-like conditions for 14 days upon arrival, spending time only at home or at their workplace. Restrictions imposed on the Swedish border and ferries between Germany, Sweden and Estonia to stop selling tickets to passengers.

Restrictions still in place: • All public gatherings with over 10 Travel with Estonia has people prohibited been eased for education • Restaurants to be closed until and business purposes. 31st of May.

• • • • • • • • •

• •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

6,692 cases, €1bn for an industry-independent subsidy for businesses which have 313 fatalities been negatively hit by the virus Stimulus package of €15 billion announced by government €200 million for corporate finance Employers' pension contributions will be reduced and deferred Unemployment benefits and unemployment insurance improved Tax deferrals available to struggling companies Finnvera’s capacity to fund SMEs doubled Government pension fund guided to increase investment in Finnish companies Government proposed additional €150mn for R&D and innovation through Business Finland, aimed at supporting industry, tourism and COVID-19 supply chain €50mn support for services industry €1bn in direct business subsidies, of which €700 for grants provided by Business Finland and €300mn for grants provided by centres for economic development, transport and the environment. €150m investment programme to support mid-cap businesses.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 18


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

France

Green ↓

• •

Ban on large events of more than 500 people until the end of July. Stricter confinement from March 17th and all social gatherings prohibited and closing of establishments open to public since March 14th at midnight. Lockdown being lifted gradually from 11th May with strict conditions in place. The lifting of restrictions will vary at the departmental level depending on the spread of the virus (map). State of sanitary emergency extended to 10th July included The next date foreseen for lifting further restrictions is end of May

Aid package

• Internal travel: Citizens required to stay at home except for essential travel. No need for official document to travel except for travel exceeding 100 kms from home in a red region. External travel: Borders closed until June 15, with French residents allowed to return home.

• •

• • • •

• No quarantine for EU, Schengen area citizens and From May 11, rules in place are: UK – except for people Shops: arriving from Spain from • all shops and food markets • May 15. It is a reciprocal reopen except cafes and restaurants (possible re-opening measure, following a similar announcement from Spain. on 2 June with specific conditions but not yet decided). Set up of rules to define the • Recommendation to wear mask administrative quarantine but not mandatory and and isolation regimes when preference for deliveries people enter on the French territory or at local level Transport:

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Interest rate on tax to be reduced from 7% to 4%. €3.6 billion set aside for benefits, subsidies and financial support. Government will guarantee €300bn of 182,942 cases bank loans to businesses 28,457 fatalities Support measures on case-by-case basis including deferred payment deadlines for social and tax extended in May (Solidarity fund of € 7 billion) Possibility for direct tax rebates and negotiation of loan terms €45bn aid package for small businesses in the form of reduced social security contributions €4 billion liquidity support plan for start-ups Exceptional aid of €1 billion to support craftsmen and retail traders Air France will get 3 billion euros in direct loans from the French state and a 4-billion-euro bank loan guaranteed by the state. €18 billion rescue plan for the tourism sector

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 19


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) • •

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Borders with non-European People must wear masks in countries will remain closed public transport For Paris, a certificate is required until an indefinite date. for employees who have to take public transport during rush hour

Social life: • Cinemas, theatres, big museums and concert halls remain closed but small libraries and museums reopen. • Meetings of up to 10 people permitted • No professional sports events this year and no festivals or events with more than 5,000 persons until September. • Parks and Gardens open but only in departments where the virus is not widespread. • No religious ceremonies before June 2 and funeral ceremonies limited to 20 persons. • Reopening of beaches, subject to administrative authorization. Work • Remote work will be maintained for 3 weeks after 11th May and people who have to go back to the office must wear a mask Schools:

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 20


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Germany

Green ↓

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Kindergartens and high schools progressively reopen as of May 11 at local level on voluntary basis Universities will remain closed until further notice.

Measures being lifted: • Several measures have been lifted at state level. Federal states will decide on further measures to be lifted. • Small shops have reopened from April 20th. • Some schools reopened from 4th of May. All other schools have gradually reopened from May 11th. • Shops were permitted to reopen from 11 May. • Some restaurants reopened from May 15th. • Amateur sports to resume, as well as professional football. Bundesliga restarted on May 15th. • Large gatherings will remain banned until August 31st. • Bavaria to gradually reopen for tourism later this month, with superstores beer gardens,

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: Border controls have reduced. Germany will look to reopen its borders with France, Austria, Luxembourg and Switzerland from 15 May. Borders with Luxembourg have been reopened. Border restrictions with Italy will remain in place. Germany is also looking to relax controls on the Danish border – Denmark is consulting with its neighbours on this.

• •

Cross-border travel is only • allowed for urgent reasons. Assessments are made on case-by-case basis. The cabinet has extended its worldwide travel warning for • unnecessary tourist trips until 14 June. •

181,288 cases Economic stabilisation fund targeted 8,498 fatalities on large companies, incl. €100bn in equity measures and €400bn in guarantees Loan programme covering up to 90% of risk for companies of all sizes. Eligible loans may have maturity up to 5 years and can reach €1bn per company (or more in special cases) €650bn support package, with €156 supplementary package to help save companies and jobs €50bn for SMEs and self-employed, receiving direct grants of up to €15,000 over three months. First payments expected by April 1st. Loan programme between the German promotional bank KwF and private banks to provide larger loans as a consortium. Risk taken by state may cover up to 80% Deferring tax payments (VAT, energy tax, air tax) reducing advance payments and relief in the area of enforcement Flexible short-time work benefits

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 21


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

restaurants and hotels resuming Ban on holiday travel, overnight accommodation in operations. Germany must be essential. Thuringia announced it would end the obligatory wearing of face coverings and limit on gatherings within the next two weeks – going against federal government advice. Restrictions would be re-imposed if infections rose beyond 35 per 100,000 a week. Hamburg will soon reopen cinema’s, open air swimming pools and gyms Baden-Wurttemberg will allow seated public events with up to 100 people from June 1st.

Measures still in place: • People are ordered to keep 1.5meters apart until at least 29 June. • Car journeys should either be taken alone or with people from the same household only.

Aid package

• • • • • •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Waiver of late payment surcharges until 31 December 2020 Increased depreciation for digital assets Option for corporate income tax for partnerships Modification of the controlled foreign corporation rules with adjustment of the low tax rate €2bn booster for start-ups and SMEs. A draft law on social protection will increase benefits for employees who have reduced their working hours by 50%. German airline Lufthansa will receive €9 billion in state aid. In exchange, the government will take over 20% of the company’s shares and appoint two members to the company’s supervisory board.

Protective measures: • Face masks mandatory in public • Contact tracing app launched • Health Minister Jens Spahn wants to introduce a virus immunity card and to make entry

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 22


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Greece

Green ↓

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

into the country contingent on this. Government has been given the power to block foreign (non-EU) takeovers in the health sector and ensure a continuous supply of protective equipment.

Measures being lifted: • Exit strategy announced 28 April: • Citizens are able to move outside their homes without a special permit but are not able to travel outside the municipality of permanent residence • 4 May: Churches and some shops including book shops reopened. • 11 May: Final year high school students returned to class and retail shops reopened. • 18 May: Middle- school and high schools reopen. Primary schools and kindergartens remain closed with a possible restart date of 1 June. • 18 May: Archaeological sites reopen to the public. • 25 May: Cafes, restaurants and some hotels reopen.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

All travel to and from Greece banned for nonGreek citizens. All people arriving are tested upon arrival. Two-week quarantine mandatory on return from abroad (if test is positive, quarantine is in a hotel, if test comes out negative, quarantine is at place of residence).

Only two people are allowed per car, driver plus one passenger.

• • • •

Travel to Greek islands via sea-routes reopens 25 May with special distancing rules in place. The Greek PM announced that 15 June will be the official start fate of the country’s tourist season, with international flights to

2,892 cases Tax and social contribution suspension for businesses most 173 fatalities affected Liquidity for businesses €6.8bn injection to support the economy Loan instalments suspended until September 30th (initial capital, not interest). €2bn support scheme where government guarantees working capital loans. Government issued 7-year bond amounting to €2bn. New targeted package of measures to support the economy was passed 7 May. The package focuses on measures to support businesses, which include funding for small businesses and further guarantees of loans €57bn support for municipalities to help them cope with the coronavirus pandemic

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 23


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Hungary

Green ↓

Festivals still banned and public beaches remain closed.

Measures being lifted: • Emergency situation extended indefinitely. • First stage of the virus ended for Hungary with the second stage focusing on the restart of normal life. • Shops and restaurants allowed to reopen without time limits aside from those in Budapest which will remain open with the current restrictions in Mplace.

Aid package

tourist destinations opening gradually from 1 July. The 14-day quarantine will likely not apply to holiday goers. External travel: Starting 25 May, Hungary has reopened all bordercrossings with Serbia without quarantine

• • •

• •

Italy

Yellow →

Measures being lifted • 14 April: Some shops open (stationery, bookshops and

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

External travel restrictions

Obligation to pay capital and interest 3,793 cases on all loans signed by individuals and 505 fatalities companies will be suspended until the end of the year. In the tourism, hospitality, entertainment, gambling, film, performing, event and sports services sectors, non-residential leases may not be terminated until the end of June. Employer contributions and payroll taxes in above sectors are also suspended until the same date. State guarantees to be put in place behind $1.5 billion. HUF 9,200bn (€35bn) made available to support economy, including paying for 70% of wages for struggling companies. €1.25 billion made available for investments. New measures providing tax relief to the Hungarian economy amounting to HUF 200 billion (€560 million). The Government has given approval to a new €400 bn decree to support

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

230,158 cases 32,877 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 24


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

• • •

children’s clothing), and forestry and timber production resume. 4 May: Manufacturing, construction and wholesale trade resumed. Access to public parks allowed and religious services will resume, masks must be worn on public transport. 11 May: Fertility treatments resume. 18 May: Hairdressers and beauticians allowed to resume. End of requirement for a certificate justifying leaving the place of residence within regions. Shops and restaurants reopen providing social distancing is enforced and religious ceremonies resume. Public parks may reopen for visitors, including for sporting activities, providing social distancing guidelines are observed. 25 May: Gyms and swimming pools reopen. 15 June: Cinemas and theatres reopen. 3 June: Internal and external travel restrictions to lift.

Some border crossings between Italy and Switzerland permitted from 11 May.

Aid package

Internal travel restrictions • Travel permitted within regions, but residents not allowed to cross regional borders.

• • • • •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

businesses, in the form of loans, funds for SMEs and export supports. Moratorium until 30 September on loans for micro enterprises, SMEs, professionals and sole proprietors. €25bn support package including loans to SMEs. Scope of SME Guarantee Fund expanded to improve access. Moratorium on business and mortgage repayment Tax deadline referrals and suspension on tax payments for specific sectors National redundancy fund extended €11bn in compensation possible for self-employed workers and independent professionals New bond indexed to the national inflation rate to support the national economy

Restrictions still in place

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 25


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) • • •

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Schools to remain closed until September. Only one parent allowed to accompany minors outside. Requirement to carry a justification for leaving the place of residence.

Protective measures adopted • Cars can be used by multiple passengers only if the minimum distance of one meter is respected. The limit does not apply if passengers are from the same household. Ireland

Green

Measures being lifted: Government released a road map setting out 5 stages to exiting the lockdown. First restrictions were lifted on 18th May. • 18 May: Outdoor meetings between people from different households allowed, childcare for healthcare workers to be opened, phased return of outdoor workers • 8 June: Households visits allowed and plans in place to open up businesses, small retail outlets allowed to open and public libraries

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

No

• • • • • •

Innovation Working Group set up with 24,735 cases Science Foundation Ireland for 1,615 fatalities businesses that can help COVID-19 and damages. Banks to halt all commercial/business loans for three months Business support centre established by government CRO to suspend filing of annual returns for period until 30th June Banks to halt all mortgages/buy-to-lets for three months A loan guarantee scheme fund of €50m to be put in place Contactless payments to be increased from €30 to €50 maximum in shops

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 26


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

29 June: small social gatherings permitted, , those with low levels of interaction can return to work, non-essential retail outlets with street level entrance to open 20 July: reopening of hotels, caravan parks, tourist activities; childcare and pre-schools to reopen for all other workers, those who cannot work from home will return to work, gradual lifting of higher-risk services like hairdressers, opening of museums, galleries and places of worship 10 August: large social gatherings to return to work, general return to workplace, reopening of primary and secondary schools. Further easing of restrictions on high-risk retail

Aid package

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

All repossessions and legal actions to be deferred for three months Temporary wage subsidy of 70% of take home pay up

Measures still in place: • Outside gatherings restricted to 4 people • Citizens should only go out for essential reasons • Schools, non-essential retail outlets, theatres, clubs, contactbased businesses. Hotels to limit

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 27


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

occupancy to essential, nonsocial and non-tourist reasons

Latvia

Lithuania

Yellow →

Green↓

Measures being lifted: • National state of emergency has been extended until 9 June. • Latvia developed its COVID-19 management strategy, which was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers today. The main goal is to focus all activities of public institutions and civil society in battling the virus and minimising the negative impacts it has. The strategy will be implemented over a two-year period. An action plan will be developed to provide further details.

External travel: All international transport cancelled, people can still travel privately (i.e. using a car). The three Baltic states have come to an agreement to lift restrictions on travel amongst themselves which started 15 May.

Restrictions still in place: • The government has raised the public gatherings limit to 25 people. • Sports facilities, and nonessential shops closed during weekends.

People returning from abroad are not allowed to use public transport.

Measures being lifted: • The lockdown in Lithuania has officially been extended until 31 May, with planning on the

Borders are closed to foreign nationals.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Health ministers from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are discussing the possibility of uniform rules for travellers to the Baltics from other countries.

• •

• •

• • •

• •

€2bn support package including loan 1,057 cases, guarantees and tax holidays. 23 fatalities Loans to support SMEs and large companies without financial difficulties before the coronavirus, with a cap of €1 million. Entrepreneurs exempt from rent during emergency State Revenue Service to pay outage to self-employed workers affected by crisis. €500 million loan from NIB to support aid measures Equity Fund supporting large businesses amounting to €75 million. The Latvian government has approved the 2020-2023 Stability Programme for Latvia, which is heavily influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Municipal borrowing cap raised to €150 million.

€5bn support package including tax breaks and subsidies Corporate and personal tax relief.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

1,647 cases, 66 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 28


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

easement of measures still ongoing. As of 30 April, it is mandatory for all to wear face masks above the age of 6 in public spaces. Full trade is reinstated with a capacity limitation of one buyer per 10sqm. Starting 4 May, the ban of Lithuanians leaving the country was lifted, with flights back in place. The government has put a plan in place to gradually increase limits on cultural event attendance throughout the summer, with the goal of allowing 900 participants in August.

Aid package

The three Baltic states have • come to an agreement to lift restrictions on travel amongst themselves which • started 15 May. Health ministers from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are discussing the possibility of uniform rules for travellers to the Baltics from other countries.

The PM announced that the • country’s borders with Latvia will fully reopen on 1 • June. • Flights to and from Norway will reopen starting 25 May. •

• Luxembourg

Green↓

Measures being lifted: • First phase of exit strategy launched April 20 with construction sites, recycling centers and hardware stores reopen.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: The border between Luxembourg and Germany is open, with no travel restrictions, from 16 May.

Otherwise borders open only for Luxembourg

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Government will cover 60% of employee downtime payments (only up to the minimum wage of €555). Bank of Lithuania reduced regulatory burdens for commercial bank lending, leading to a potential rise of €2.5bn. Tax aid package including tax deferral agreements, no interest on tax loans, suspension of tax arrears, and relief from default interests. €1.5bn borrowed from international markets to sustain state treasury liquidity €85 million stimulus through bonds (6 April). €110 million stimulus through bonds (20 April) €90 million stimulus through bonds (27 April). Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Lithuania signed a memorandum of cooperation in establishing a Business Support Fund. €85 million stimulus through bonds (11 May). Rescue package of €8.8 bn (€2.5bn of 3,995 cases loan guarantees for companies, 110 fatalities €1.25bn of tax abatement) €300 million aid scheme for SMEs Bank guarantees for line of credit or loans Simplified short-time work scheme

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 29


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

On May 11, general lifting of restrictions begun: • Shops and some cultural venues reopened under socialdistancing conditions. • Hairdressers and beauty salons also allowed to open, but only by appointment. • Cafes and restaurants re-open on 29 May (4 persons per table and 2 metres between tables). Outside areas can re-open on 27 May. • Culture venues and places of worship, as well as fitness centres will also re-open on 29 May with strict social distancing. Restrictions still in place: • From 11 May, social gatherings of up to 6 people allowed. • Cinemas, indoor play areas and any other public spaces not yet open. • All festivals, sporting events, large gatherings banned until July 31.

nationals to return and cross-border workers required to prove they are crossing the border to commute.

Aid package

• • •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Tax relief for self-employed and businesses Tax return deadline extended Judicial deadlines suspended, residential evictions frozen.

Internal travel: Citizens advised to avoid all non-essential travel Public transportation remains open.

Protective measures adopted: • Masks compulsory in shops and anywhere people come within

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 30


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

two metres of another person not from their household Malta

Yellow →

Measures being lifted: • Most shops can reopen with restrictions on the number of clients and social distancing measures in place.

External travel:

No travel to or from Switzerland, Germany, France, Spain and Italy.

All inbound commercial Restrictions still in place: • Those most at risk are prohibited flights suspended until 15 June. from leaving their home • Public and recreational meetings of 4 or more people, who are not of the same household, is prohibited. • Bars, restaurants, clubs, cinemas are closed. Netherlands

Green ↓

Measures being lifted: • The government announced an exit strategy on May 6th. • From 29th of April children can play outdoor sports • From May 11th, primary schools and child-care centres have reopened provided schools can ensure pupils can socially distance. • Contact based occupations (hairdressers, driving lessons

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

• • • • •

No. Two-week quarantine • strongly advised by the • government if travelling from a high-risk country, but not mandatory. •

600 cases Liquidity injection and bank guarantees of up to €1.8bn consisting 7 fatalities of: Deferral of tax payments (between €400mn and €700mn €150mn of bank guarantees €750mn of soft loans Possibility of a three-month moratorium on personal and business loans €4.5bn in credit of which €900mn guaranteed by Government €210mn of funds being made available to cover expenditure from COVID-19 Measures extended until September SMEs in particularly hard-hit sectors can request an allowance for fixed charges up to a maximum of €20,000 per company. €4000 Support for companies in sectors hit particularly hard. Support can be requested until the 26th of June. Companies with over 20% loss in revenue can apply for 90% contribution to their wages in

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

45,768 cases 5,871 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 31


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

etc.) have resumed operations on May 11th From June 1st, the government will reopen secondary schools, opening restaurants and cafes (with health provisions in place), opening cultural institutions. From this date, meetings with up to 30 people are allowed as long as they can keep 1.5-meter distance. From June 15th, exams will resume, and the government will present a plan on how to reopen higher education. From July 1st, communal areas in campsites and holiday parks can reopen. The maximum number of people within restaurants, cinemas etc will be increased to 100. Events that require a permit, including professional football, will be banned until September 1st when gyms, saunas, coffee shops, casinos will reopen.

Aid package

• •

• • • • •

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

proportion to the fall in turnover – extended for June, July and August. Bridging loans available immediately for SMEs Companies can request postponement of tax payments. Automatic 3-month exemption when filing request. Temporary reduction of recovery interest Companies expecting over 20% loss in revenue request contribution to labour costs Work-time reduction, government will cover 90% of the salary Tourism tax abolished temporarily Lending more easily available, government-backed lending increased to €10bn. Maximum loans increased to €150m €100mn finance for startups and scale-ups Government insurance of supply credits up to €12bn

Restrictions still in place: • All meetings with over 3 people prohibited until June 3rd.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 32


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Mandatory to keep 1.5 meters. distance from others not from the same household when outdoors.

Protective measures: • Face masks mandatory in public transport Poland

Green↓

Measures being lifted •

• • •

20 April: larger numbers of people allowed in shops and movement for recreational purposes (with face covering) permitted 4 May: Shopping malls, hotels and cultural institutions reopen, and some sports facilities. 6 May: Some kindergartens reopen. 18 May: Restaurants, cafes and hairdressers to reopen. 25 May: Some educational establishments to reopen.

Restrictions still in place • Schools likely to remain closed until end June. • Ban on gathering in a public space with more than two people. Protective measures adopted

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel restrictions

Exiting Poland permitted at border crossings. Ban for non-Polish residents to enter the country and border checks. • Polish citizens crossing the border for professional or educational purposes are now exempt from a mandatory 12-day quarantine. Foreign nationals entering Poland from abroad must go into self-isolation for two weeks. Border controls remain in place for people travelling to Poland from Germany, Lithuania, Czechia and Slovakia until 12 June.

• • • •

21,867 cases ‘Anti-Crisis Shield’ fund worth PLN 212 billion including loans, employee 1013 fatalities support, increased business financing plus a further package including exemptions for larger companies from social security contributions and reliefs on tax liabilities incurred due to Covid-19. Medium and large companies able to obtain capital increase of financing in the form of bonds State to contribute to salaries of businesses facing problems Deferring payment of utilities and tax Deduct expenditures 2020 on 2019 tax returns Self-employed and micro-companies exempt from social security payments from social security payments if their revenue drops 50% Products manufactured or purchased by companies that are donated to fight coronavirus are subject to a 0% VAT rate. Businesses given more time to submit annual PIT declaration until May 31.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 33


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

People required to cover mouth and nose in public from 16 April. Face coverings required when travelling in a car with people not from the same household.

Internal travel restrictions •

Restrictions lifted: • State of emergency ended 2 May and measures gradually lifted from 4 May. • Small shops, hairdressers, beauty salons and car dealers reopened. • Second phase started on 18 May, with the reopening of restaurants and cafes, shops up to 400 square metres, museums and monuments, day care centres and schools for students in the 11th and 12th year. • Visits to beaches permitted under social

International travel: • Arrivals into Portugal, whether by sea, air or road, to go through 14-day • quarantine. • Regional exceptions: • Quarantine for passengers disembarked in Madeira will • be eliminated from 1 July, • with the obligation to • present or perform a covid19 test on arrival.

Portugal

Green↓

Aid package

Restrictions still in place: • Ban on meetings of more than 5 people. • Cinemas and theats to reopen 1 June. Protective measures: • In shops and businesses that are allowed to re-open,

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

New guarantees to facilitate access to finance.

Citizens required to stay at home except for work or essential trips.

• Suspension of air links with • Italy, borders with Spain closed. Land border with Spain to remain closed until 15 June. TAP has resumed flights on 7 May at 2/3 capacity. Ryanair to resume flights from Northern Europe on 1 July.

31,007 cases Six-month suspension on debt repayments to be extended beyond 1,342 September fatalities €9.2 billion aid to support companies and households €3bn guarantee scheme for SMEs €200m credit line to support companies €60m tourism sector support Exemption social security payments Tax deadlines extended and easing of tax payments for businesses and the self-employed Social security contributions reduced Extension of support to managing partners with dependent workers, an increase in the guarantee period for access to unemployment social benefits and coverage of independent workers without discounts in the last year announced on 6 May.

Internal travel

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 34


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Romania

Yellow →

mandatory use of a mask in stores up to 200 square meters with an open door to the street, while in hairdressers and similar businesses, services are to be made by appointment. In closed spaces, the maximum capacity is five people per 100 square meters.

Measures being lifted: • Since May 15, the State of emergency is replaced by the State of alert that has been extended to 30 days more since May 18. • Hairdressers, museums and dentists allowed to open since May 15. • The next round of easing measures will be implemented on 1 June.

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Citizens required to stay at home except for essential travel or unable to work from home. Justification required for traveling in and around Portugal. Taxis limited to two people. External travel:

• •

Border controls with Bulgaria, Ukraine, Moldavia, • Serbia and Hungary. • Road transports to and from • Italy, Spain, Germany, France, Austria, Belgium, • UK are suspended until June 1

Flights to and from Italy, Spain, Germany, France, Restrictions still in place: Austria, Belgium, UK, • Government announced on April Switzerland, the U.S., Iran 27th that schools and and Turkey countries are universities will remain closed in suspended until end of May Romania until September Non-Romanian citizens can (except for students in final enter on the territory but grades that could go to school have to respect a wearing a mask to prepare the final exam from 2 to 12 June but quarantine from May 15

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

17,712 cases, €2bn support package 1,159 fatalities Waiving social security contributions in transport and tourism sector Extended guarantees on loans Increase maximum value of guarantees for SMEs to €1bn Government will reimburse VAT of up to €1.8bn Discouraging companies to lay off employees by paying 75% of the salary, including in the tourism sector. Provide liquidity to credit institutions via repo transactions

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 35


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

with only 10 students in the room Internal travel: for 2 to 3 hours per day) People over the age of 65 are authorized to go out from 7.00 to Some municipalities are 10.00 am and 19.00 to 22.00 pm being quarantined - no restriction of time for these persons for professional purpose Pedestrian activities of more than 3 non-family members are authorized Public gatherings will remain banned after 15 May. Museum institutions, libraries, bookstores, cinemas, film and audiovisual production studios, of performance and / or concert institutions, centers and / or a cultural centers and other cultural institutions as well outdoor cultural events and public festivals and may be carried out under Organization and holding of rallies, demonstrations, processions, concerts or other types of gatherings in open spaces, including drive-in ones, as well as a meeting of the nature of cultural, scientific, artistic activities, sports or entertainment indoors are prohibited.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 36


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Physical training activities within the structures and sports bases, consisting of training camps, training and sports competitions organized on the territory of Romania can be carried out under conditions • Only 8 persons can participate in private event in closed spaces Protective measures: • Protective masks are mandatory in closed public areas, commercial spaces, public transport and workplaces. This regulation could continue for at least the remainder of 2020 Slovakia

Green↓

Measures being lifted: • Released a four-stage plan beginning on 22 April. • Initially, stores with areas up to 300 square meters along with open-air markets, car dealers and sports venues may open. • From 6 May shops, restaurant terraces, museums, taxi services, overnight accommodation, hairdressers, churches and outdoor tourist attractions can reopen. • On 1 June under strict hygienic measures, kindergartens and

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Internal travel: On 21 May, Slovaks will be allowed to travel for up to 24 hours to eight European countries without having to test negative for COVID-19 or undergo quarantine

1,503 cases Tax relief measures approved, including the cancellation of the 28 fatalities penalty for underpayment of income tax and extension of the deadline for filing tax returns Delay payment of tax for 2019 until 30 June 2020

International travel: As of 27 May, Slovakian residents can travel for up to 48 hours without having to provide a negative coronavirus test when re-

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 37


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

grammar schools will reopen. However, parents can decide whether their child will return to school in June or not. On 20 May, shopping malls will be allowed to open, while indoor restaurants will be able to open but with some limitations. Theatres and cinemas will also be allowed to reopen on May 20 provided the audience is limited to 100 people

Restrictions still in place: • Mobility limited to essential needs e.g. commuting and vital supplies • Only essential retail remains open • Ski resorts, and entertainment venues are closed. Protective measures: • On May 20, facemasks will become voluntary in outdoor spaces

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

entering Slovakia. The countries are: Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Germany and Switzerland. As of Monday, May 18, there will be more exceptions to compulsory quarantine in state facilities, for people working in Czechia and Austria in selected areas, people living in one household with cross-border workers, or students who take part in training in Czechia, Austria, Hungary or Poland. Instead of state quarantine, some Slovak citizens returning from abroad will be able to use a mobile app to monitor their isolation. International transport to and from has been suspended Border controls introduced, only residents allowed to enter. All public international travel has been suspended.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 38


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Slovenia

Green↓

1,468 cases 106 fatalities

May 15: Announced the official end of its coronavirus outbreak. Measures being lifted: • Released a plan to gradual ease lockdown measures. • Certain stores e.g. construction, electronic and motor vehicles will be allowed to open from 20 April. People may now leave their own municipalities. Others such as hairdressing salons can open from 4 May. • Bearing in mind the usual precautions about safe distance between individuals, individual sports such as jogging, bicycling, golf and yoga will thus be allowed • On May 18, opening of kindergartens and schools, including residence halls for upper-secondary students • From May 18, offering and selling goods and services to consumers is gradually being eased, and all shops are being opened, including those in shopping centres, small accommodation establishments with up to 30 rooms, indoor

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel:

On May 14, the Slovenian • government has authorized EU nationals to be free to cross border with some • caveats, but no quarantine is needed • Extra measures when exiting from Slovenia into Austria, Croatia, and Italy • As of 12 May 2020, air • passenger transport to international airports in Slovenia has been restored. The prohibition of flying to local airports from foreign continues to apply until 12 June 2020.

EUR 3 billion package to mitigate impact of COVID-19 on the economy. Borrowers not able to settle their loan agreement liabilities can defer repayment for a year Employees who are temporarily laid off, for no longer than 3 months, will be entitled to 80 % of their salary EUR 6 million state loans for companies in trouble (with potential for another 20 million) EUR 600 million in credit lines to address liquidity concerns Preparation of a third anti-corona package that should introduce subsidies for part-time workers and tourism vouchers.

Border can be crossed using private / personal vehicle.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 39


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

areas of restaurants and bars, and some other tourist services.

Spain

Yellow →

Measures being lifted: • State of alarm extended for fourth time to 24 May. • Gradual lifting of restrictions began early May and a Fourphase exit strategy started on 10 May. Each phase will last a minimum of two weeks. • Lifting restrictions will happen at different speeds across the country, but should be completed nationwide by the end of June. • On 25 May, the regions of Madrid and Castilla y León as well as the metropolitan area of Barcelona entered Phase 1. 14 of Spain’s 17 regions either

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: Two-week coronavirus quarantine requirement for overseas arrivals will be lifted on July 1. 21 countries have imposed ban on entry of Spanish people or have suspended air and maritime communications.

• • • • • • •

Land borders closed. Entry for most foreigners at air • and seaports restricted from 23rd March.

283,339 Stimulus package of €200bn Small businesses and freelance cases workers exempt from tax payment 27,117 fatalities €400m credit line for tourism sector Deferred repayment of loans €100,000m in guarantees to support businesses to stay solvent Support measures for autonomous regions Measures to help renters announced, including interest free loans, payment deferrals and a moratorium on evictions. Basic utilities such as water, electricity and gas guaranteed

Internal travel:

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 40


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

partially or completely transitioned to Phase 2. Shops that can offer appointments re-opened 4 May. Bars and restaurants re-opened 10 May at 30% capacity for regions in phase 1. Beaches and schools open in regions in phase 2.

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Citizens required to stay at home except for essential travel. Justification required for traveling in and around Spain.

Restrictive measures still in place: • Up to three people are allowed in a car, a maximum of one person per row of seats. Each of the occupants should wear a protective mask. • Social gatherings limited to groups of up to 10 people in Phase 1, and under Phase 2, in groups of up to 15. Sweden

Yellow →

Measures being lifted: • No exit strategy adopted yet – however very limited lockdown measures in place overall. Restrictive measures in place: • All events with more than 50 people • People have been advised to avoid crowds and unnecessary

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Entry ban for all citizens from third countries (nonEU and Schengen)

Advice against travels to all countries until June 15 •

39BN SEK support for companies who 35,088 cases have suffered a loss of turnover of at 4,220 fatalities least 30% compared to the last financial year aimed at overcoming the acute crisis and adapting operations. Riksbank has accelerated banknotes to stimulate lending and increased its support package to €27bn. The support package now also includes housing, municipal and corporate bonds.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 41


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

travel. Over-70s are told to stay at home. Universities and senior high schools closed Businesses remain open but will need to comply with meeting restrictions

Aid package

• •

• •

• • • •

• • • •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Riksbank has lowered lending rate and offers banks unlimited money against collateral Free liquidity loans have begun being offered by Riksbank, which will push €45bn in new liquidity in the banking system Requirements for collateral for loans in Riksbank have been softened and lending rate has been lowered. Tax payments deferred for three months, proposed to apply from April 7th, 2020 but can be backdated to January 1st; expanded to include VAT. Sole proprietors entitled to tax cuts. Lending package of €45bn through banks to secure credit supply Short term leave with salary cost reduction Liquidity reinforcement via tax accounts Extended loan and guarantee opportunities. € 270mn injection for lending to SMEs, Swedish Export Credit loan frame increased to €18bn which can be used for Swedish export companies (including shipping) €90mn fund for cultural sector and sports Airlines to be given state credit guarantees Temporary reduction in employers’ social security contributions Government support for business rents.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 42


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Investment in education, increase of places at universities and support for developing distance education. SEK 150 set aside to invest in green jobs to alleviate unemployment as a result of Covid-19/

Global Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Australia

Green ↓

Measures being lifted: • Health Minister Greg Scott has advised on a ‘phased lifting of restrictions.’ PM Scott Morrison has announced a gradual easing of particular restrictions, that may need to be re-imposed if infections again start to rise. The easing of restrictions will be assessed state by state. • The national cabinet has agreed to lift some elective surgery restrictions from the 28th of April. Restrictions on all category two or equivalent procedures in the private sector, as well as selected category three and other procedures.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: All arriving travellers will be required to quarantine for 14-days There is discussion between Australia and New Zealand to allow travel between the two countries prior to allowing international travel. Australian government has announced that borders won’t reopen for approximately three months. Jacinda Ardern and Australia’s national cabinet discussed a trans-Tasman travel zone. Internal Travel Restrictions

• • • • • •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

The Reserve Bank of Australia 7131 cases announced an emergency interest 102 fatalities rate cut to 0.25%. $17.6 billion economic support package to encourage investment and keep people in jobs. Almost $100m provided to home care and home support providers. $12.3m to support the My Aged Care service. Banks will defer payments by small businesses for six months. Banks care considering a freeze on mortgage repayments for those that lose their jobs during the outbreak. Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia ordered many venues, including pubs, casinos, gyms and cinemas.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 43


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

• •

National cabinet wants to see 20 or fewer cases a week before Australia eases further restrictions. Most beaches are open for swimming and surfing only. 11 May- NSW students will attend school one day a week have a staggered approach till July. Some NSW pubs with restaurants and sit-down dining tables will be allowed to reopen on 15 May. Only 10 people will be allowed in the premises. The National Cabinet has endorsed a pathway for the staged return of community and professional sport—states and territories will be responsible. A National 3 step plan has been put in place to relax restrictions has been announced, with states and territories to decide when each step will be implemented locally. Step 1 will focus on reopening the economy and providing the opportunity to return to work and social activities, including gatherings of up to 10 people, up

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

• Border closed to nonresidents. Internal borders have been closed since 3 April. Western Australia is enforcing a hard border close from 5 April. The Australian Government has guaranteed a domestic aviation network to capital cities and regional centres. Strict new rules for public transport have been put in place in NSW, including limiting the number of passengers to 32 for train carriages, 12 for buses and 45 for ferries.

• • • • •

Qantas is preparing to relaunch domestic flights in mid-June • Restrictions in place (meeting bans, restrictions to freedom of movement and business closures) • • Most businesses are closed however, businesses remaining open include; Shopping centres, bottle shops,

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Number of people able to get tested for COVID-19 has expanded to include healthcare workers and prisoners who have a fever. NSW has banned people from disembarking from cruise ships, after the Ruby Princess disaster. Government has launched a COVID19 app. The Government announced it would spend A$170m to help subsidise food exports. The Government has announced free childcare for the next 6 months. Evictions have been put on hold for 6 months. The Government has passed legislation for the $130 billion JobKeeper Payment. This will pay eligible businesses and not for profit organisations $1,500 per fortnight, per employee from the time of qualification to the end of September. The National Cabinet has agreed that states and territories will implement a mandatory Code of Conduct for commercial tenancies. A new Higher Education Relief Package will support workers who have been displaced as a result of the COVID-19 crisis and who are looking to upskill or retrain. It will also provide

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 44


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

to 5 visitors in the family home and some local and regional travel. Step 2 builds on this with gatherings of up to 20, and more businesses reopening, including gyms, beauty services and entertainment venues. Step 3 will see a transition to COVID safe ways of living and working, with gatherings of up to 100 people. International travel and mass gatherings over 100 people will remain restricted. In-person school attendance will be compulsory in Western Australia from 18 May. Beaches in eastern Sydney will reopen on 15 May, with 500 at a time allowed onto Bondi Beach and enforced social distancing. Victoria has relaxed restrictions—residents will be allowed up to five visitors in their homes. Restaurants, cafes, and bars in some Australian states have begun to reopen. Current rules applied mean that customers can return to venues for a maximum of two hours, but only

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

medical centres and pharmacies. The public has been • advised to stay home unless: shopping for • essentials, medical care, exercising or travelling to • work or education.

New South Wales, Western • Australia and Queensland are involved in a dispute over border closures, with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian pressuring her • counterparts to reopen state borders. •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

funding certainty to higher education providers. A £3 million further funding has been agreed for frontline workers The Ruby Princess has departed Port Kembla for Manila. Australian manufacturers will get $48.3m in federal government funding to ‘help modernise their operations and create 2,600 new jobs’. The Government has announced it has extended the exemption on mutual obligations for job seekers until 22 May 2020. The Government is providing an additional $205 million in specific COVID-19 aged care funding. Mutual obligation requirements for jobseeker will be suspended further – until 1 June. The Prime Minister has announced $48.1 million in funding for the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan. The federal government has indicated it could end the free childcare subsidy soon.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 45


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

10 people at a time and ensure social distancing. South Australia will move to stage 2 restrictions from 22 May. New South Wales will allow residents to holiday across the state from 1 June. The Premier of South Australia has changed rules to allow pubs to reopen in his territory. Mark McGowan has announced ‘a fast evolving’ Covid-19 situation in Western Australia after six crew members on a live export ship in Fremantle tested positive. The New South Wales premier, Gladys Berejiklian, announced a 12-month wage freeze for public servants in line with decisions made in other jurisdictions. The Victorian premier, Daniel Andrews, said people would continue working from home for the whole of June.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 46


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Brazil

Yellow →

Restrictions still in place: • Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro is urging the country to “return to normality” but is facing strong criticism for his denial of the crisis. The President has advocated the reopening of gyms, salons, barbershops and military and civic-military secondary schools. • However, most social isolation measures are being implemented on a state level, and the reaction of Brazil’s 27 state and district governments has varied widely. • Governors have not imposed mandatory state-wide lockdown measures. Instead, Governors have either applied selective lockdowns – such as closing businesses and limiting vehicle circulation - in cities or deferred to mayors to make those decisions. The Governors of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have extended their selective lockdown rules until 31 May. The Governor of São Paulo has said he intends to extend the current

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

External travel restrictions • • From 30 March there has been a 30-day entry ban by air travel, though this excludes Brazilian residents and immediate family nationals. Land borders are also closed to all but Brazilian • citizens and residents.. Internal travel restrictions • • Inter-State travel restrictions are being implemented at a local level. Intercity buses are • suspended and access to the metro is for key workers only. •

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Launched a new credit line aimed at 391,222 cases 24,512 fatalities helping small companies The Treasury will use 15.9 billion reais ($2.78 billion) to cover potential loan defaults, limited to 85% of each loan extended. The remaining part should be covered by financial institutions providing the loans. Brazil’s central bank slashed interest rates by 75 basis points to a recordlow 3.00%. Brazil’s Senate approved a 60 billionreal ($10.5 billion) aid package for the nation’s cities and states The Ministry of Economy announced a stimulus package of R$147.3 billion (GBP £22.57 billion) to help the economy against the effects of the pandemic. A further packaged of R$85.8 billion (GBP £13.15 billion) has been allocated for states and municipalities. An emergency monthly grant has been introduced for the selfemployed. An "Employment and Income Maintenance Emergency Program" has been introduced that allows companies to reduce the working hours/salary or furlough staff to be paid by the Government.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 47


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

quarantine measures from June 1 in “an intelligent way”.

Canada

Yellow →

All of Canada’s 10 provinces have announced plans to gradually reopen their economies, in part by insisting on social distancing and protective equipment in workplaces.

External Travel Restrictions:

• •

Measures still in place • Schools are closed across Canada. • Bans on gatherings still exist across Canada with size dependent on each province.

Measures being lifted • Some retail businesses will be able to open but the date which businesses is dependent on each individual province.

China

Yellow →

Measures being lifted: • Most lockdown measures have been lifted. • Certain cities in the Jillin province (North East China) have been re-classified as high

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

The border is closed to all non-residents except for US nationals. The Canada-US border is open to US nationals completing essential travel. Those returning to Canada are legally required to quarantine for 14 days. This however exempts essential workers returning to Canada without COVID-19 symptoms.

External travel: From 28 March, China is suspending the entry into China of foreign nationals with visas issued before 27 March. New visas now

• •

• •

88,093 cases C$107 billion in stimulus. 6,753 fatalities C$52 billion in direct support for individuals and companies. C$73 billion for wage subsidy packing covering up to 75% of wageWorkers can receive up to C$2000 a month if their income drops to zero. C$55 billion in temporary tax deferrals for households and businesses. Government have time limited (six months) emergency spending powers The Bank of Canada has cut interest rates three times in March from 1.75% to 0.25%. $2 billion to purchase new protective personal equipment. C$252 million to support farmers and food processors. Politburo has called for a new stimulus involving raising the fiscal deficit ratio, guiding a reduction in interest rates, delaying loan repayments, boosting consumption and issuing special treasury bonds.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

84,104 cases 4,638 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 48


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

risk due to a spike in cases. These cities, totalling around 108 million people are now subject to lockdown restrictions. The city of Shenyang in the neighbouring province of Liaoning is now also experiencing an outbreak and an entire hospital has been put under quarantine. Most businesses are now open and Beijing has reopened 30% of its major tourist sites but imposing “good behaviour” regulations from 1st June. China’s parliament, a gathering on 3,000 representatives, is due to take place on 22nd May.

Aid package

applied for will be considered “for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or out of emergency humanitarian • needs.” • Those entering China must undergo a two-week quarantine period but • businesses from Hong Kong can apply for exemption. • Internal travel: Internal travel restrictions depend on province but there are no mandatory quarantine periods for individuals travelling from parts of the country classed as low-risk.

• •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

President Xi Jinping said its fiscal policies will become “more proactive and forceful” with monetary policy being “more flexible and appropriate.” Increased funding support for virushit regions. Modified environmental supervision of companies to help the resumption of production. Targeted tax breaks and loan extensions to support businesses. Issuance of local government bond quota to be brought forward to before the end of Q2. Between March and June, the temporary monthly subsidy for low income individuals will be doubled under the mechanism of raising social benefits pro rata with price increase. Low-income individuals impacted by COVID-19 will be covered by social protection and work support schemes. The subsidy and tax exemption for purchases of new energy vehicles will be extended by two years. People’s Bank of China (PBOC) cut the bank reserve requirement ratio by 50-150bp. 50bp blanket cut set for all banks. Further cuts by 100bp to be made in two equal steps on 15 April and 15 May.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 49


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

• • •

Hong Kong

Yellow →

Hong Kong authorities have extended the ban on large gatherings of more than eight people until 5 June. The Hong Kong government has already relaxed restrictions on public gatherings and allow

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: Residents advised to stop travelling. All non-residents will be banned from entering.

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

PBOC reducing interest rate of financial institutions’ excess reserves with the central bank from 0.35% to 0.72% on 7 April. PBOC cut borrowing costs to bring down the interest rate for loans across the economy. Cost of borrowing from PBOC for 1 year and 7 days, reduced to 3.2 and 2.2 respectively on 30 March 2020. PBOC cut amount of cash that small banks must hold as reserves, releasing $56.38bn in liquidity Pledged a further $30mn in funding for the World Health Organisation On 6th May China’s State Council announced a preferential corporate income tax for the Western regions of 15% (compared to 25% elsewhere) from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2030 in order to help develop the region. On 22nd May China announced they would not set an economic growth target for the coming year. HK$10,000 to permanent residents whose finances have been hit by the spread of coronavirus Low interest loans with Government guarantees for small businesses

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

1,06 cases 4 fatalities

Cicero/AMO / 50


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

India

Green ↓

gyms, cinemas and beauty parlours. From 27 May older students who were not given relief in the earlier plan will be allowed to return to their classrooms, while younger children will resume school in the first half of June.

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Reduction in profits tax by 100%, subject to a ceiling of $20,000

153,327 cases Covid-19 economic taskforce to be set up, which will look to take steps to 4,337 fatalities minimise the blow to the economy $22.6 billion stimulus package. Direct cash transfers to farmers, daily wage labourers, senior citizens and widows. Free 5kg of wheat or rice per month for three months for low-income earners. Free cooking gas for low-income earners for three months. $66,000 medical insurance cover for every frontline health worker.

Hong Kong will lift the remaining coronavirus-related business restrictions on Friday 29 May, paving the way for nightclubs, karaoke parlours, bathhouses and other establishments to reopen.

Measures being lifted: • A nationwide lockdown extended until 3 May. • The Government has begun allowing the easing of restrictions in areas least impacted by the virus. • It is doing this through a colour coded system distinguishing each district based on the number of people infected. There are three types of designations for districts:

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

External travel: International flight ban extended to 3 May. This does not apply to all-cargo flights. Indian as well as foreign travellers banned from entering India if travelling from Europe, Turkey or the United States. Flights repatriating around 20,000 Indians stranded overseas is due to start today, the 7th of May under

• • • • •

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 51


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) • • •

Green Zone: No infections in the area. Orange Zone: Some infections present in the area. Red Zone: Area is an infection hotspot. A total of 170 districts including all major Indian cities such as Mumbai and Delhi have been designated red zones. On 20 April 2020, the Indian Government decided to allow the easing of restrictions in green zones. This mainly targets agricultural businesses to restore the food supply chain. Essential public workers programmes have also been restarted. State Governments hold the power of deciding what lockdown measures can be eased. Kerala has announced a significant easing of restrictions in its ‘green zones’ with private vehicle movement and sit-in restaurants allowed to restart. The government has lifted some restrictions in green zones and rural areas to allow nonessential shops to open.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

the efforts of the Vande Bharat mission.

The next phase of Vande Bharat mission starts from May 16-22. 149 flights from 31 countries to run are expected to run. Additional countries included in this phase are from Europe, Africa, CIS Australia and Japan.

• •

Phase 3 of Operation Samudra Setu: Jalashwa continues with the mission to bring back Indian citizens stranded overseas. The ship will embark Indian nationals at Colombo, Sri Lanka on 1 June. Internal Travel Restrictions • All states sealed their borders. Migrants ordered to remain where they are. Indian Railways have subsidised 85% of ticket fare for special trains being run to transport migrant workers

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Deadline for paying disputed tax under ‘Vivad se Vishwas’ scheme extended States to request industries to allow employees to work from home and provide remuneration during this period. Restrictions lifted on export of certain pharmaceuticals following initial ban last month. India has announced a 20 trillion rupee, £216bn economic package to help the country cope with lockdown. The Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan is designed on 5 pillars - economy, infrastructure, technology driven systems, demography and demand. Factors of production have now been redefined: land, labour, liquidity and law. Income Tax: The due date of all income-tax return for the financial year 2020 has been extended to Nov. 30 from June 30. Special Liquidity Scheme: The Government has launched a Rs 30,000 crore Special Liquidity Scheme for non-banking financial companies, microfinance companies, housing finance companies.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 52


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• •

However, markets and shopping malls remain closed. Karnataka Government relaxes lockdown norms in 14 districts. The national COVID-19 lockdown in India has been extended beyond 4 May for another two weeks- May 17th. The 3rd phase of national lockdown begins Monday 4th of May with relaxations; curbs will continue in containment areas. Officials in Delhi have imposed a special tax of 70% on retail alcohol purchases to deter large gatherings at stores. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that a lockdown would continue in some form or another even after the 17th of May, but that state governments should send in their plans for ramping up economic activity in green zones—between May 15th and May 17th. India will enter the fourth phase of a lockdown with new rules which will be announced 18th May

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

and state government has to • pay remaining 15% Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced that public • transport services may resume operations soon and the government is forming guidelines for social distancing. Indian railways • will reopen limited passenger services from the 12th May, with 15 special trains departing from Delhi. MHA allows interstate movement of migrant workers, stranded pilgrims and students subject to consultations between sender and receiving states and adherence to health/safety protocols. In continuation- [by special trains to be operated by Ministry of Railways (MoR)]. training and coaching institutions; hospitality services, including restaurants and hotels.

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Construction: All Central agencies have provided an extension of up to 6 months, without cost to contractors Government cuts: The Government reduced rates of Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) for non-salaried specified payments made to residents and rates of Tax Collection at Source (TCS) for the specified receipts by 25 %. MSME: Collateral free automatic loans will now be available for MSMEs, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. The government tweaked the definition of MSMEs, recognising a larger number of businesses under the segment to push growth-Loans will be granted for a four-year period and principal repayment will start only after 12 months. EPF: The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) contribution for June, July, and August will be made by the government. This will provide relief for 7.2 million employees for eligible establishments. Food for migrant workers: The Government will provide free food to migrants for two months as part of Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the grain supplies worth

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 53


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Lockdown extended till May 31st. • 4.0 Most restrictions stay in place—relaxations include: • Restaurants can operate takeaway services, while sports complexes and stadiums can host events without spectators. • Private cars and buses can now operate across cities and towns as well as crossing state borders if they have permission. • Orange or green zones relaxations: the government relaxed rules to allow agriculture and related businesses to reopen and operate. Selfemployed workers including plumbers, electricians and carpenters are also allowed to start working again. • The Maharashtra Government announced categorization of various areas into red and nonred zones—to keep control of business and other related activities. Restrictions in place • Dependent on province. • Home Ministry has announced that prohibited activities

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Domestic civil aviation operations will recommence from 25 May.

Aid package

Public transport has been reinstated in Delhi during the fourth phase of lockdown. The Ministry of Civil Aviation • has allowed domestic air services by 'non-scheduled and private (general aviation) operators (fixed• wing/helicopters/microlight aircraft) to resume flight.' Times of India announced, Delhi Metro is likely to get • the nod to resume services before 31st May. All station premises are being thoroughly sanitised and banners and signage to ensure social distancing are being put up on platforms, in the customer care areas and at the entry-exit points.

Cases confirmed and fatalities

$463m would benefit 80 million migrants. Animal Disease Control: National Animal Disease Control Programme has been launched with total outlay for vaccination of all cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat and pig population in India. Unemployed Street Vendors: Jobless street vendors will be given a working capital loan of Rs 10,000 each to restart their businesses. Kisan Credits Cards: For farmers, the finance minister announced a Rs 2 lakh crore concessional credit through Kisan Credits Cards to benefit 25 million farmers. Essential Commodities Act: Government will amend Essential Commodities Act to enable better price realisation for farmers.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 54


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

• Japan

Green ↓

• •

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

irrespective of zone include; air, rail, metro travel; interstate movement by road; schools; colleges; and other educational Gatherings of not more than 50 persons are allowed at wedding functions and not more than 20 persons at funerals. Lockdown 4.0 Any kind of political activity, social gathering, attending places of worship and religious congregation prohibited. All non-essential travel between 7pm and 7am- prohibited.

State of emergency has been • lifted in all of the 47 prefectures. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has urged people to remain vigilant and adopt a “new lifestyle” based • around avoidance of the “three Cs” – confined and crowded spaces, and close human contact – to prevent a second wave of infections.

Advised not to travel to • Iceland, some provinces of Italy, Spain and Switzerland. Ban on entry to travellers who have been in China, Iran or Italy 14 days before arrival. • •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Bank of Japan eased monetary policy 16,623 cases by pledging to buy risky assets at 846 fatalities double the current pace and a new loan-programme to extend one-year zero-rate loan to financial institutions. The BoJ announced on 27 April that it will buy an unlimited amount of government bonds and quadruple its purchases of corporate debt Total $9.6bn financial aid package for SMEs and self-employed workers affected by coronavirus Low-interest loans for SMEs, particularly in the tourism industry The government will consider offer loans of up to 300 million yen at less than 1% annual interest to SMEs

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 55


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

whose sales have declined 5% or more due to the outbreak New stimulus package announced worth $992 billion. The measures offer larger subsidies for firms that keep workers on the payroll. Companies hit by the virus will be able to defer income and regional tax payments for a year. The plan also calls for 4 trillion yen in cash handouts to struggling households and another 2.3 trillion yen for small businesses. Switzerland

Yellow →

Three-phase lockdown exit strategy. The first phase took place from 27 April, with hairdressers, physiotherapy practices, hardware stores and nurseries reopening The second phase took place on 11 May and involved the reopening of schools and universities. The third phase of the exit strategy includes the reopening of bars and restaurants. This would take place on 8 June and would likely include some form of social distancing requirement.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Wide-ranging checks at land • borders with surrounding Austria, France, Germany, and Italy. • Government indicated that “border crossings will be opened in consultation with the domestic and foreign partner authorities and communicated accordingly”.

30,776 cases, CHF32bn aid package to help support the economy, in addition to a 1,917 fatalities previously announced CHF10bn package. The new package provides CHF20 billion for companies with liquidity problems to obtain transitional bank loans. Companies hit by the crisis will be able to defer payment of social insurance contributions temporarily and without interest.

People coming from the four neighbouring countries and Spain, as well as all nonSchengen countries are now unable to enter. No further visas to be granted for any non-Swiss for three months.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 56


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

Singapore

Green↓

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Testing a voluntary contract tracing app.

Measures still in place: External Travel • A ban on gatherings of any size. Restrictions: • Non home based Businesses to close their premises until June 1. There is a ban on entry and transit. Measures being lifted: • home-based enterprises, laundry Only work-pass holders, including their dependents, services and barbershops allowed to reopen from May 12. who are providing essential • From May 19 some students will services will be allowed entry. Requirement to obtain be allowed to go back to schools approval from the Ministry of in small groups. Manpower before travel. • From June 2 a third of the workforce will resume on-site operations in sectors including manufacturing, production, finance, insurance and wholesale trade. The remaining two thirds will continue to work from home.

• • • •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

32,876 cases S$100 Billion in four separate 23 fatalities stimulus packages including corporate tax rebates and wage support. The package is specifically aimed at tourism, aviation, retail, food and transport services. S$800 million for the health industry. S$350 for the airline industry A year long delay in the planned raise in the goods and services tax. Firms in all sectors will have up to 75% of their local employees' wages subsidised for April. The Monetary Authority of Singapore has eased its monetary policy (it uses the exchange rate as its main policy rather than a benchmark interest rate) lowering the midpoint of the currency band and reduced the slope to zero. SMEs are now allowed to defer principal payments on their secured term loans up to 31 December 2020. Banks and finance companies may apply for low-cost funding through a new facility for loans granted under Enterprise Singapore’s SME Working

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 57


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Capital Loan scheme and Temporary Bridging Loan Programme 2020. External Travel • Restrictions: • Ban on all foreign • nationals entering except those holding Alien Resident Certificates or have obtained special permission for business or diplomatic reasons. • Anyone entering Taiwan from overseas has to quarantine for 14 days in their home or a dedicated "quarantine hotel".

Taiwan

Green↓

Taiwan did not engage in a widespread lockdown. At present there are: • no meeting bans. • no school closures. • no businesses are currently mandated to close due to COVID-19.

UK

Yellow →

Measures being lifted External travel restrictions • • The Government has laid out a • From June travellers provisional roadmap of lifting arriving into the UK by restrictions – with broad plane, train or ferry to • timings as to when certain isolate for 14 days restrictions will be adjusted. upon arrival. However, the Government has • Citizens advised against • made it clear that all timings are all non-essential travel contingent on sufficient evidence worldwide and all that COVID-19 is being citizens advised to return • controlled and are not fixed. to the UK immediately. •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

441 cases Up to T$1.05tn of stimulus for the economy focused on employment 7 fatalities subsidies and the tourism industry. The Central Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has cut its interest rate from 1.375% to 1.125% and said it would provide banks with financing of T$200 billion.

266,602 cases £330bn made available of loan guarantees to businesses equivalent 37,130 fatalities to 15% of GDP A 12-month business rate holiday for all retail, leisure and hospitality businesses. The 3 month mortgage holiday for those who can’t pay bills, has now been extended by another 3 months. Ban on evictions for 3 months. Cash grants of £10,000 for small firms, and £25,000 for medium sized

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 58


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures) •

A new Covid-19 Alert System • The Government will with five levels will govern how also require all quickly lockdown restrictions international arrivals not could be eased. on a short list of exemptions to selfThe UK has been in step one of isolate in their this plan for two weeks which accommodation for involves returning to work where fourteen days on arrival it is possible to do so in a into the UK. These “COVID secure” way. The measures will be Government is working towards introduced as soon as launching step two where possible. Primary Schools will open for smaller numbers of children on Internal travel restrictions 1st June and non-essential shops • No internal travel th will open from 15 June. restrictions are in place, The next step after this could but people are advised see some hospitality businesses not to use public and other public places reopen transport unless "if the numbers support it" - but essential. not earlier than the 1 July.

Restrictions in place The decision to begin easing certain lockdown measures has proved contentious among the devolved nations and city regions, which are at differing stages of the outbreak. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have decided to retain the 'stay home' message. As a result, there are now clear, albeit limited, differences between the restrictions

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

retail, hospitality, and leisure businesses All Statutory Sick Pay costs for small businesses met by Government for 14 days. Business Interruption Loan scheme to support SMEs with the Government guaranteeing 80% of each loan up to £5million for companies with annual sales of up to £45million. The scheme will be interest free for 12 months. Loans of less than £250,000 do not require personal guarantees with a personal guarantee on larger loans limited to 20% of any amount outstanding on the lending following any other recoveries from business assets. Introduced ‘bounce back loans’ with a 100% Government backed guarantee. Businesses will be able to borrow between £2,000 and £50,000. Loans will be interest free for 12 months. Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme launched on 20 April 2020. Loans of up to £25million are available for companies with annual turnovers of between £45million and £250 million. Loans of up to £50 million are available for businesses with a turnover of more than £250 million. There will be no payment to

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 59


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

faced by those in each of the devolved nations: •

• •

• In all nations, the limit on exercising once-a-day has been lifted. In England and Wales gardens centres are allowed to open. In England those who cannot work from home, should be “actively encouraged” to travel to work with significant investment in alternative transport routes announced. Other devolved nations have not voiced this encouragement. In England individuals can meet with one other person from outside their own household. Construction sites remain closed in Scotland unlike in the rest of the UK.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

cover interest payments for the first 12 months. A Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme where any employer can apply for a grant to cover up to 80% of the wages of a worker who remains on payroll but temporarily cannot work because of the outbreak. A maximum grant of £2,500 can be issued for each worker. Backdated to 1 March and initially open for 3 months. The scheme has been extended until the end of October, with greater flexibility to bring back part time workers from the beginning of August. More detail on changes to the scheme in August is expected by the end of the month. It will cover National Insurance contributions and minimum automatic enrolment employer pension contributions. Self-employed are eligible for taxable grants worth 80% of their taxable income, up to £2,500 per month, for three months. Accessible to anyone with trading profits of less than £50,000 who filed a tax return for 2018/19 and who makes more than half of their total income come from self-employment. The scheme will be operation in June, with payments backdated to 1 March. Standard rate in Universal Credit and Tax Credits increased by £20 per

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 60


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

• • • •

• • • •

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

week for 12 months, beginning on 6 April. VAT payments until end of June 2020 deferred. Income tax payments due in July 2020 deferred until January 2021. Wrongful trading rules suspended. A moratorium for companies from creditors enforcing their debts while they seek to restructure or implement a rescue plan. Supplies will also be protected during this moratorium. A new restructuring plan will be binding on creditors. Bank of England cut the base rate of interest to 0.1% Temporary special powers for Police, NHS staff and local authorities introduced in Coronavirus Bill. 6-month MOT exemption for all vehicle owners. £75million scheme set up to return UK residents abroad back to the UK where no commercial routes are available. £750m rescue package for the charity sector. £370m of that funding will support small, local charities working with vulnerable people. A further £360m will be provided directly to charities providing essential services and supporting vulnerable people. £60m of this funding will be available through the Barnett Formula to

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 61


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Cases confirmed and fatalities

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 3-month payment freeze on consumers loans and credit cards as well as zero interest on pre-existing arrange overdrafts of up to £500 and no adverse price change on overdrafts. A £1.25bn package to support innovative new companies that are not eligible for existing COVID-19 rescue schemes. It will match up to £250m of private investment and add £550m to an existing loan and grant scheme for smaller firms that focus on research and development. To be eligible a business must be an unlisted UK-registered company that has raised £250,000 or more in equity investment in the last 5 years. £750m of grants and loans available from the UK’s national innovation agency Innovate UK to support companies. An additional £1.6 billion of new funding to support councils. This funding takes the total amount given to councils to help them through the pandemic to over £3.2 billion. Government to temporarily ban the use of statutory demands and winding up orders where a company cannot pay their bills due to COVID19. The Government is also laying

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 62


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

Aid package

Cases confirmed and fatalities

secondary legislation to provide tenants with more breathing space to pay rent by preventing landlords using Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) unless they are owed 90 days of unpaid rent. US

Yellow →

Measures being lifted: Yes • The White House distributed a document of guidelines for “Opening up America Again” that offers proposed phased reopenings in states or regions that meet certain “gating” criteria here. • The White House has also launched a Task Force on Reopening the Economy. It includes executives from sectors including technology, agriculture, banking, financial services, defence, energy, transportation, sports and health care. • All 50 states have begun to reopen in at least some way, but there remain large differences in how states are deciding to open up. States in the Northeast and on the West Coast, as well as Democratic-led states in the Midwest, have moved the slowest toward reopening, with several governors taking a

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

• • •

• •

1,681,418 cases National Emergency declared 98,929 fatalities $42bn in resources for states and localities. Government will defer up to $300 billion in tax payments, allowing individuals to defer up to a million dollars and corporations to defer up to $10 million — interest-free and penalty-free for 90 days. President Trump signed $8.3bn emergency coronavirus spending package on 6th March. Federal Reserve will establish a Commercial Paper Funding Facility (CPFF) to support the flow of credit to households and businesses. Federal government guidance is important, but state and local authorities have ability to issue stay at home orders. Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that provides a $2 trillion coronavirus relief package Economic Impact Payments of up to $1,200 for individuals who file taxes. The payment is reduced by $50 for

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 63


Country

Lockdown Exit Lockdown exit strategy (measures Restrictions on travel Strategy Key being lifted, measures still in (internal and external) place, protective measures)

county-by-county approach (In Washington, D.C., a stay-athome order remains in effect until June.) By contrast, several states in the South have opened earlier and more fully. In Georgia for example, social-distancing requirements have been put in place in, restaurants, salons, gyms and other businesses for several weeks. In California, hair salons, barbers, and in store retail shops have been allowed to reopen. President Trump has pledged $1.2 billion to AstraZeneca Plc to help make the University of Oxford’s Covid vaccine. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) has reopened its trading floor.

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Aid package

• •

Cases confirmed and fatalities

every $1,000 an individual earns over $75,000. The first payment is expected on 17 April 2020. Employee Retention Credit providing 50% credit on first $10,000 of wages. Paycheck Protection Program worth $349 billion providing small businesses that employ less than 500 people with low interest loans up to a maximum of $10million. A record 3.3 million people filed for unemployment insurance last week – the biggest spike in jobless claims in US history. All 50 states have declared state or public health emergencies, according to the National Governors Association (NGA). President Trump said that the next two weeks in the US will be "very painful". The White House projects 100,000 to 240,000 U.S. coronavirus deaths.

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Cicero/AMO / 64


Get in touch To find out more or to discuss this document in further detail, please do speak with the Cicero/AMO team:

Helena Walsh Managing Director EU Public Affairs

Helena.walsh@cicero-group.com +32 (0)2 612 8152

COVID-19 EU and Global Response

Megan Ridderhof Account Manager

Megan.ridderhof@cicero-group.com +44 (0)20 7297 5973

Salvatore Ferrara Account Manager

Salvatore.ferrara@cicero-group.com +44 (0)20 7297 5968

27th May 2020, 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET

Ben Roback Senior Account Manager

Ben.roback@cicero-group.com +44 (0)20 7297 5964

Cicero/AMO / 65


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.