Jordan small-business owners hit hard as the second lockdown of the week puts halt to business

With the second lockdown in two weeks hitting the Jordan neighborhood on Feb. 2, small business owners in the area say they are facing serious financial problems. 

The second lockdown was announced at 7pm on Tuesday in areas of Sham Shui Po, Jordan and Tin Shui Wai. Residents must remain at home until they test negative for COVID-19. 

One resident in Jordan tested positive. 

The first lockdown in Jordan finished on Jan. 23 and found 13 infections.

“Difference between lockdown and usual? No business and little business,” said Mana Rupa Budhathoki Magar, a South Asian grocery store owner who was in the lockdown area. 

Faced with a 60% decrease in daily revenue, Ms Magar’s South Asian food and daily supplies store has suffered financial pressure since the pandemic began, with the two lockdowns making the situation worse.

“I support a lockdown, but my business got affected anyway,” said Shabbir Hussan, a Halal food store owner in Jordan who was also in the lockdown. The store’s delivery service has helped he said. 

Many customers in Lee Mei’s Jordan nail salon have cancelled their reservations, Ms Lee said.

“Spring festival period should be the hottest season for nails; however, now I only have several customers each day,” said Ms Lee, adding that the high rent is a burden. 

The Hong Kong government has provided food packages for residents in the Jordan lockdown.