The Minister of the Economy and Finance, Bruno Le Maire, recognised on Friday 28 February the new coronavirus (or Covid-19) as a "case of force majeure" for companies. He invited local authorities and private companies to take the same measure. This is a measure that the Federation of International Mechanical and Electronic Companies (FICIME) had requested on Wednesday 26 February.
In concrete terms, what does force majeure mean for companies? "Firms with state procurement contracts will not be penalised for late delivery", explains the government on its website.
Other measures put in place by the State in response to the coronavirus epidemic
The Ministry of the Economy and Finance also announced the application of support measures, on a case-by-case basis, to businesses that would meet with "serious difficulties" The use of partial activity, such as the use of partial activity or the deferral of social security and tax charges.
And the State proposes to speed up approval procedures for new sources of supply, particularly for the chemical sector, to help companies diversify their sources of supply.
The government also makes available all relevant information on the business and logistical situation in the various Chinese provinces.
