The southern Chinese city of Shenzhen has reported 13 new coronavirus cases. To support businesses during the current outbreak, the local government has unveiled a raft of relief measures. Xu Hua reports.
A COVID-19 outbreak might be slowing down Shenzhen's economy, but this has been countered by the local government, who've been quick to understand the pain businesses are feeling.
It's introduced multiple relief measures to help enterprises cope. Those in the hard-hit Futian district can avail of rent reductions and financial subsidies.
YE YOULI Director, Property Management Center, The People's Government of Futian District "We will exempt about 75 million yuan of rent for 327 companies and individuals in government-owned properties to reduce their operation costs."
Special attention has been given to companies in Xiasha Community, which is one of several areas still under lockdown.
For some large companies, the government's relief measures mean they're able to get through the outbreak without any layoffs.
SU MEI Founder & CEO, Shenzhen Valueonline Information Technology "Some of our businesses were transferred online. But we have many salesman working around the country. Their business has been largely affected as COVID cases are being reported across the country. The exemption of 600,000 yuan of rent is of vital importance for a start-up company like mine."
Many restaurants had to shut down to prevent the virus from spreading. Some of those are also entitled to special subsidies to see them through this difficult time.
ZHANG HUI Chief Operating Officer, Wudao Restaurant "We've been closed since March 1. After receiving the notice to reopen, we took a series of prevention and control measures to greet customers on the first day, today. The government has exempted rent for one and a half months, which is up to 280,000 yuan. I feel grateful."
XU HUA Shenzhen "If the preferential policies issued by the municipal government overlap with that of Futian district, enterprises can enjoy both. Companies are very happy with this rule, because it provides them with strong support, helps them minimize the negative economic impact of the pandemic and allows them to resume normal production levels as soon as possible. Xu Hua, CGTN, Shenzhen."
(Source: CGTN)
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