|

Jiaxing in East China's Zhejiang province rolled out 12 measures to support local tourism and culture companies, according to local media reports on Feb 15.

The measures apply to the tourism and culture companies severely affected by the novel coronavirus pneumonia outbreak or active in epidemic control and prevention efforts.

A special fund will be established to revitalize the local tourism industry, and the approval of capital applications will be accelerated.

Around 43.68 million yuan ($6.23 million) in deposits will be returned to all 192 travel agencies in Jiaxing.

Furthermore, government officials will be sent to help local culture and tourism companies resume operations.

Ten percent of water fees for these companies will be waived from March to May, and during the outbreak, water will not be cut off due to overdue bills.

From February until the end of the epidemic, heating prices will be lowered by 10 percent and small and medium-sized tourism and culture companies that lease State-owned property for commercial use will be exempt from rent for two months.

Companies are encouraged to develop creative cultural products, organize promotional activities, and hire more employees.

Classes will also be organized for those employed in the tourism industry, and a tour guide competition will be held throughout Jiaxing.

All workers in the city are encouraged to take advantage of rehabilitation services at local institutions, and all primary and secondary school students are encouraged to participate in field trips within Jiaxing.