Guangdong reported 20 new cases, raising the total number to 1,095 as of midday February 8th. The province reported 1 death in total, and a total of 100 people have been discharged from hospital. A total of 207 suspected cases were reported and 3,412 people are under observation.

Guangdong recently introduced a series of measures including rent reductions or exemptions and financial support to help enterprises better resume production and reduce the impact of the coronavirus epidemic. These measures have already come into effect, and will be kept in place for three months.

A special policy will be formulated exclusively to enable enterprises to solve the problem of purchasing masks, protective suits, disinfectant and thermodetectors.

For the enterprises that cannot afford the insurance premiums on pensions, medicines, maternity, unemployment and work-related injuries as well as housing funds in time due to the epidemic, catch-up payments within three months after the epidemic are permitted.

Enterprises that meet the requirement for a delay in tax payments can seek a three-month extension. Those having difficulties with tax payments will see a reduction on property tax and urban land use tax according to the law.

State-owned tenants should exempt private enterprises from housing rent for one to two months if the firms can’t operate normally because of the epidemic.

Banks and financial institutions are encouraged to support enterprises that are greatly affected by the epidemic by permitting extensions on loan repayment, lowering interest rates, and reducing or waiving required interest.