New social distancing rules have touched almost every corner of public life in Taiwan… even the country’s beloved night markets.
One of the many joys in Taiwan is strolling through a night market while snacking on your favorite foods. Now the government is putting a halt to this treasured activity, due to concerns about coronavirus.
Last week, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) told tourist hotspots to limit their capacity. Now, they are requiring face masks at all shopping districts, traditional markets, and night markets.
CECC Deputy Commander Chen Tsung-yen says the new policy forbids people from eating as they walk through night markets. That’s because it could spread the virus.
The CECC is urging night markets to regulate the flow of visitors, and asking vendors to spread out to keep their distance. Stalls that can’t spread out will have to put up partitions. They’re also asking customers to keep their distance when lining up.
The CECC says it’s working with the economics ministry to create instructional materials to show people how to follow the new rules.