Jilin rolls out policies in fight against novel coronavirus

Northeastern Jilin province announced 34 specific measures in seven areas -- responding to the fight against the novel coronavirus outbreak -- according to a news conference held on Feb 10.

Zhao Haifeng, deputy director of the Jilin Provincial Development and Reform Commission, briefed the media on the measures.

In customs clearances, Changchun Customs will offer 24-hour priority services for overseas procurement and donations of anti-epidemic materials. The government will also open a dedicated channel to approve procuring of materials from abroad.

In terms of ensuring the supply of daily necessities, the government will expand supply channels, improve its temporary storage system, improve logistics system and strengthen market supervision.

With regards to finance, tax and medical insurance support, the government will increase fiscal guarantees, strengthen medical expense guarantees, implement work subsidy policies, increase credit support and reduce related taxes.

Another measure focuses on helping businesses, where authorities will in an orderly manner arrange for companies to resume work and production, postpone payments of their social insurance fees and medical insurance, reduce rents appropriately and defer payments of utilities.

In terms of people's standard of living, the government will encourage companies not to lay off employees and those who lose their job due to the epidemic can receive a certain amount of unemployment insurance. The government will also support employment of returned migrant workers and stabilize the incomes of impoverished families.

Under a policy aiming to contain and eliminate the epidemic, the government will support scientific research of vaccines and medical equipment in universities, research institutes and companies.

Yet another policy focuses on coordinating current economic work. Under this, the government will provide more support for spring ploughing, construction of major projects, eco-tourism, development of new economic modes and other initiatives.