Finland may consider imposing entry restrictions on travelers from China later this week if there is no agreement on a uniform set of measures at the level of the European Union. This stance was conveyed by Krista Kiuru, Finland’s minister responsible for family services and basic social support, during an interview with MTV3, the Finnish television channel. The remark highlights a growing willingness among Nordic governments to act in concert with EU partners to safeguard public health in the face of evolving travel-related health challenges.
Kiuru emphasized that if the EU cannot reach a coordinated decision, Finland would assess its own options and contributions to shielding its residents from potential health risks. The minister pointed out that many countries have already introduced pre-travel health checks or testing requirements for travelers from China, and Finland is weighing how such measures might fit into a broader, EU-aligned framework or stand as a national supplement when necessary. The goal, she said, is to reduce the risk of importing infectious diseases while maintaining reasonable mobility for legitimate travel.
The Finnish government anticipates that certain decisions could be rendered at the EU level as soon as January 4, presenting a framework within which member states can align or calibrate their approaches. Kiuru noted that discussions on the crisis response mechanism are ongoing among EU officials and representatives from member states, with a focus on practical actions that can be prepared and implemented swiftly should the health situation require it. The conversations underscore a collective intent to protect citizens across the European Union while balancing the realities of international travel and trade.
According to Kiuru, the proposals currently under consideration aim to shield residents of EU nations by reducing potential exposure to health threats, and to provide a safety net for those who rely on cross-border interactions for work, study, or family reasons. The discussion reflects a broader commitment to proactive public health governance and to maintaining trust in border policies during periods of global health risk. While the specifics may evolve, the strategic objective remains clear: to minimize disruption and risk for EU citizens without compromising essential freedoms and exchanges.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from China, Mao Ning, cautioned that China may respond to any entry restrictions imposed by Chinese provinces or other administrative regions. The Chinese statement signals that Beijing could pursue retaliatory measures should travel restrictions persist, potentially affecting visa processes, transportation services, or other mobility channels. The comments arrive amid a tense moment in international travel policy and underscore the reciprocal dynamics that often accompany cross-border health and safety measures in a globalized world [MtV3].