E-commerce enterprises headquartered in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province are using their resources to purchase necessary medical supplies to support the city's fight against the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, local media reported on Feb 2.

A total of 12,000 local enterprises engaged in foreign trade business have been proactive in its efforts since Jan 26. Starting this morning, 200 pieces of protective clothing from Vietnam and 80,000 medical masks from South Korea will arrive at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport.

“I was a vacuum cup dealer and thus have many friends in malls, pharmacies, and supermarkets,” said Yao Huajun, chairman of Tongfu Group and donor of the 80,000 medical masks.

On Jan 26, Yao visited almost all the pharmacies in New York and was able to obtain 3,000 dust-proof masks. He then contacted his business partners in Denmark, France, Japan, and South Korea on Jan 28, bolstering the total of masks he was able to donate.

Youniverse Co, an e-commerce company focusing on the European market, was able to purchase 200 pieces of protective clothing from Vietnam.

“I asked for help on social media and a Vietnamese friend contacted me, saying she had resources,” said Li Weiwei, chairman of Youniverse, “It feels like the whole world is helping us.”

In order to facilitate the foreign donation channels, four charity organizations have set up 24-hour offices in Xiaoshan International Airport so that donors can talk directly with hospitals, so that the supplies can be put into good use as soon as possible.