The first case of COVID-19 was reported in Hong Kong nearly five months ago, on 22 January 2020. No new local cases have been recorded for over two weeks and social distancing measures are being eased to allow the city to return to some semblance of normality. However, it will be a case of “so close, yet so far” as the disease has had a devastating impact on businesses, not to mention the tragic loss of life. The impact and consequences will be felt for some time and there is unlikely to be a return to the old “normal”.
For liability insurers in Hong Kong, the COVID-19 pandemic has not only impacted their own operations. They will also have to contend with claims arising from it. This update seeks to give some insight into the COVID-19 related claims that liability insurers may face in Hong Kong.