Culture and tourism businesses in Northeast China's Jilin province, a major destination for skiing in winter, will be given fund subsidies, to help ease the business pressure brought about by the novel coronavirus epidemic, according to the local cultural and tourism authorities.

According to measures issued by the Jilin Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism on Thursday, local cultural and tourism companies will also be allowed to enjoy tax reductions and holds over social insurance and medical insurance payments.

Specifically, ski resorts will be given up to 2 million yuan ($285,300) in fund subsidies if they have handled 300,000 tourists as of Jan 23, according to the authorities.

Snow and ice scenic spots in Jilin will also be given up to 800,000 yuan in subsidies if they have handled 100,000 tourists by Jan 23.

Also, newly rated national 5A tourist agencies will be awarded up to 500,000 yuan and newly rated five-star hotels in the province will be given 200,000 yuan.