Exports in Wenzhou, Zhejiang province edged up in the first five months of the year.

Statistics show that Wenzhou exported 54.18 billion yuan ($7.66 billion) worth of goods in the first five months, up 0.7 percent year-on-year.

Export destinations were mainly countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative such as the Netherlands and the Middle East. In May, Wenzhou's exports to BRI countries grew 35.5 percent to 6.59 billion yuan.

The government of Wenzhou has streamlined administrative procedures for local foreign trade companies since the COVID-19 epidemic began, especially for those dealing in face mask exports. In May, Wenzhou exported face masks worth a total of 1.44 billion yuan.

A local shoemaker began manufacturing face masks to offset the losses caused by shrinking shoe orders, and achieved growth.

Mechanical and electrical products also contributed to export growth. The city exported 7.52 billion yuan of such goods in May, up 20.9 percent year-on-year and contributing 9.9 percent of the city's total exports in the month.