BMW exhibits its new energy vehicle model BMW i8 at the Shanghai auto show in April. [Photo by Zhang Dandan/China Daily]

China will help foreign companies resume production, and ensure service for major projects invested by global firms to enhance the country's ability to attract foreign investment, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

Eager to protect their interests and help cut losses caused by the novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic in the country, the ministry will assist foreign companies in preparations before the resumption of work, and support them to resume production under the precondition of adequate prevention and control work, said a circular unveiled by the ministry on Monday.

The government will prioritize the demand for foreign-funded enterprises that produce protective goods and equipment such as medical protective clothing, facial masks and goggles, to promptly resume production and meet the market demand, as well as help them gain necessary protective materials, the circular said.

The ministry will closely track the progress of large foreign investment projects under discussion, strengthen communication and actively promote investment cooperation with different parties.

The circular required local authorities to provide timely service to large foreign-invested projects under construction, optimize online government services, and coordinate relevant government branches and public utilities to ensure their supplies to overseas businesses in term of land use, labor, water and power usage.