East China city starts trial of 2.5-day weekend

HANGZHOU -- The eastern Chinese city of Shengzhou initiated a 2.5-day weekend on a trial basis to stimulate consumption and boost economic growth.

According to a guideline issued by the municipal government, from July 1 to Dec 31, employees in government departments, social organizations, enterprises, and public institutions are allowed to get off work at noon on Fridays before coming back to the office Mondays.

The 2.5-day weekend allows workers more time for short holidays, which could help boost tourism consumption, relieve employees' stress and improve work efficiency, the guideline read.

Many Chinese regions such as Zhejiang and Jiangxi provinces have recently declared a "2.5-day-a-week" vacation system to boost consumption and tourism as the novel coronavirus outbreak has been largely controlled in the country.