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Entrepreneurs laud gov't measures to bolster SMEs

Updated:2020-02-13 (chinadaily.com.cn)

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Ningbo's moves to help SMEs cope with the novel coronavirus outbreak have greatly bolstered enterprises' confidence in resuming production.

The measures focus on financial support and reducing burdens on SMEs from the economic impact of the virus by exempting them from rent, offering loans with lower interest rates, and delaying social security payments.

Xu Lunfu, chairman of Ningbo Renor Medical Technology Co Ltd, noted that the local government's decision to subsidize enterprises producing items necessary for disease prevention and control makes him feel "excited and touched".

The company resumed production at the end of January and now has a daily production capacity of more than 1,000 forehead thermometers after the local government helped it reduce a shortage in circuit boards.

"With such a government, we are confident we can overcome all difficulties," said Xu.

Xia Jianfeng, President of Ningbo Intersky Software Co Ltd, said he forwarded information about the measures taken by the local government to his WeChat friends upon their release.

He spoke highly of the timeliness of the government’s actions, saying they will reduce financial damage the company has suffered due to the extended hiatus.

Zhejiang Zhiyuan Environmental Protection Technology Co Ltd borrowed millions of yuan in loans last year, and the repayment deadline is drawing near. It is facing difficulties repaying them on time due to the outbreak.

Chen Yong, who runs the company, told local reporters that he was relieved to be informed that the government will step up credit support for SMEs affected by the epidemic.

Wu Gun, general manager of Pop Smart Technology (Zhejiang) Co Ltd, said the government’s policies were reassuring to local private enterprises affected by the outbreak.

Although the company is not developing new products to help prevent and control the epidemic, it is still able to enjoy financial support for SMEs from the Yinzhou district government, Wu said. The company will have its rent waived for one month and halved for another month.

Chen Jingsheng, general manager of Ningbo Tieren Intelligent Technology Co Ltd, expressed appreciation for what governments at the municipal and district levels have done to help enterprises retain talent.

"Most of our staff are involved in research and development and the policies have helped us a lot," Chen said.