Authorities in Jinhua, Zhejiang province recently launched an online platform to help companies overcome financial difficulties caused by the COVID-19 epidemic.

Through the platform, companies can apply for rental fee reduction, fiscal subsidies and other benefits offered by the national and regional governments.

"The platform saves our time and energy as we don't have to make a trip to the local authorities," said Zhu Meidan, assistant to the president of Jinzi Ham, a local ham manufacturer.

Zhu said that the company has saved more than 100,000 yuan ($14,143) in utility bills. The company is also expected to save more than 900,000 yuan in social insurance premiums.

Hong Ling, general manager of Seokho, a local robotic tech company, said his company has saved more than 500,000 yuan, which has in turn eased the pressure on raw materials and labor cost.

The platform has so far helped companies in the city save a total of 7.1 billion yuan.