East China's Fujian province introduced measures to encourage qualified commercial and trade companies to resume normal operations as soon as possible. [Phoro/Xinhua]

East China's Fujian province has introduced 26 measures to stabilize foreign trade and boost foreign investment during the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in order to help companies resume operations, according to an announcement released by the government information office on Feb 19.

The Fujian government will encourage qualified commercial and trade companies to resume normal operations as soon as possible and implement supportive policies related to urban distribution, epidemic prevention, employment, and talent. 

Governments at all levels have been instructed to play an active role in helping companies resume operations amid the novel coronavirus epidemic. 

Businesses important to people's daily lives will be prioritized, and enterprises involved in grain and edible oil production will be provided subsidies and allowances to help ease pressures brought about by the epidemic.

Local gvernments will improve government services for foreign companies and introduce supportive measures for foreign-funded enterprises, including rent reductions and waivers, low-interest bank loans, and subsidies for water and electricity.

The Fujian government is expected to provide information related to epidemic prevention and control efforts for expats living in Fujian, helping address practical problems encountered by foreign-funded enterprises in investment, production, and operation.

The province will impletment a number of measures aimed at foreign trade enterprises, helping them continue opening their markets to the world. Fujian's traditionally advantageous industries, such as shoes, clothing, food, and textiles, will be promoted in an effort to expand imports and exports. 

In addition, foreign trade enterprises importing materials for epidemic prevention and control will receive a variety of rewards. The Fujian Provincial Department of Commerce has offered over 35 billion yuan ($5 billion) in financial support for the development of foreign trade enterprises.

The province will streamline customs clearance procedures and optimize a "single window" service for international trade. Also, all ports in Fujian will open green channels to help ensure fast-track clearance services for imported supplies to be used in epidemic prvention and control efforts. 

The government said it will work with greater efficiency and strive to attract more investment. Foreign firms with more than $3 million in available funds in the first half of 2020 will receive up to 10 million yuan in financial assistance.

Fujian will fully promote the implementation of the Foreign Investment Law, carry out a wide range of activities to attract foreign investment, and launch online systems for contract signing.