Companies in Hubei not to resume business before March 10

Companies should not resume business before March 10 in central China's Hubei Province, the center of the novel coronavirus outbreak, local authorities said Thursday.

The requirement is part of the efforts to consolidate the positive effect of epidemic control, which has entered a crucial stage in Hubei, according to a circular released by the provincial epidemic prevention and control headquarters.

However, the requirement does not apply to companies necessary for epidemic control, public utilities and people's daily necessities, or those essential for important national and public interests, says the circular.