Southwest China's Chongqing municipality invested $248.33 million in foreign projects and companies in the first half of this year – a year-on-year increase of 6.2 percent. Approximately 80 percent of the investment was contributed by private enterprises.

To withstand the impact of the coronavirus epidemic, Chongqing's government has strengthened security risk investigations for companies to help them identify warning signs and implement risk prevention tactics when engaging in foreign trade.

To that end, Chongqing provided questionnaires to companies involved in the Belt and Road Initiative to learn more about their situation amid the epidemic. Additionally, the municipality released roughly 100 recommendations on epidemic prevention and control tactics and carried out spot checks on nearly 400 foreign-investment enterprises.

Chongqing's government has also cooperated with district and county-level departments to establish epidemic prevention and control teams to monitor over 2,700 Chinese employees working at 480 overseas projects. Authorities are encouraging enterprises to implement safety protection measures for these expatriates.

International trade companies can take advantage of Chongqing's marketing network and service platforms, which provide important business information and guidance.

To help local companies go global, the municipality has established a cooperation agreement and communication system with China Development Bank, the Export-Import Bank of China and China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation. The coalition boasts consulates in both Chongqing and Chengdu.

Chongqing has also provided support services for companies, receiving a 100 percent satisfaction rate and helping eight companies secure loans totaling $350 million.