A livestream is held in Gangzha district, Nantong. [Photo/WeChat account: ntgzsd]

Since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, stores in Gangzha district, Nantong have seen a large drop in sales. To stimulate consumption, local village secretaries have decided to promote sales via livestreaming.

Some village secretaries filmed promotional videos at local restaurants and recommended special dishes to residents online, which proved popular on WeChat.

Sun Yun, secretary of Shuguang village's Party committee, shared her experience during a livestream at an early childhood education center. "My child has been learning at this early childhood education center for a while, and I think it's a great choice," said Sun.

A local couple had just started operating a small shop in January when the virus hit, posing a serious challenge for them. After learning about their situation, Yang Churui, deputy secretary of Yongxing village's Party committee, offered to help.

The couple first expanded their supply channels and surveyed residents on their preferences. Then they created a promotional WeChat group with the help of local officials. The shop is now doing much better.