The resumption of casino operations is part of the Supreme Decree No. 187-2020-PCM, which focuses on Phase 4 of the Economic Recovery and is part of the broader National Health Emergency aimed at addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 750 authorised gambling halls throughout the country must adhere to social distancing protocols, with the wearing of face masks and the disinfection of all equipment also mandatory.

Casino and slot machine operators must also design a ‘Plan for the surveillance, prevention and control of COVID-19 at work’, which should be sent to the Ministry of Health prior to the commencement of operations.

After almost nine months of shutdown, theatres, shopping centres and gyms can also reopen at 40% capacity, with an increase to 60% permitted if activities are carried out in open spaces.

“In joint work with the Ministry of Health (Minsa) and the companies of movie theatres and gymnasiums, we have developed the operating protocols for these activities, in order to care for and preserve the health and life of people avoiding the spread of COVID-19,” said Chicoma.

“We have complied with the gradualness and responsibility of opening up economic activity by prioritizing the recommendations of the Minsa, but giving the opportunity to companies and their workers to benefit from the greater demand for goods and services associated with the Christmas holidays.”