Ljubljana - The government has adopted a decree extending the partial lockdown of businesses until 7 January. The exceptions include essential shops and services such as food shops, pharmacies and petrol stations, the Government Communication Office has announced.

Being permitted to stay open are shops which mainly sell food, personal care and cleaning items, pharmacies, medical and orthopaedic equipment shops, farming shops, petrol stations, financial services, post offices and delivery services.

The sale of clothing and footwear in these shops is prohibited.

Also belonging to the exceptions are individual non-medical counselling and therapeutic services, personal pick-up of goods or food except alcoholic beverages at pick-up points.

This applies for the period between 6am and 9pm, while it is not permitted to eat food and drink beverages in public places. Other essential services for ensuring safety and health are also permitted.

Also permitted to stay open are food markets, newsagent's and hairdressing salons.

Chimney sweeping services are allowed if social distancing restrictions are observed and if the room where the service is provided may be ventilated.

The ban on the sale of pyrotechnics is still in force, mainly to prevent injuries that would require medical attention.

Shops that are allowed to be open must provide at least 30 square metres per customer and all anti-epidemic recommendations must be followed.

The 9pm-6am curfew remains in force, and gatherings in public spaces will not be allowed. Private meetings of up to six adults from up to two households, including their children, are allowed.

Events, rallies, parties, weddings and gatherings remain prohibited. The decree enters into force on Thursday and will be in force for one week.