Chinese authorities have taken a series of measures to support resumption of enterprise work, especially those producing masks and protective clothing or transforming to make those items, to ensure safe operations and help fight the ongoing novel coronavirus outbreak.

"We've seen some enterprises facing difficulties in resumption due to the epidemic, but considering it is still a crucial time of curbing the spread of the virus, we've extended our services online to reduce human flow and cut our approval procedures, especially for companies attempting to change their production lines to make supplies," said Tang Jun, vice-minister of the State Administration for Market Regulation.

He introduced the supportive measure at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on Tuesday morning.

Traditionally, companies applying for business licenses need some time as well as lots of materials, "but now we have decided to give them, especially those planning to produce epidemic-related supplies, licenses immediately if they promise they will submit the materials as quickly as they can," Tang said.

As for food enterprises, he said food safety has always been a top priority but the administration has agreed to issue business licenses to such companies ahead of inspections to ensure resumption.

Yang Jiangying, deputy commissioner of the National Medical Products Administration, said her authority has opened a quick approval channel for enterprises producing epidemic-related medicines, "and also simplified or combined procedures of registration, business license issuing and tests for companies making protective clothing, surgical masks and medical equipment."

"We'll urge our branches at provincial level to guide and support enterprises in resumption to fully ensure the safety of drugs and medical equipment during the outbreak," she added.