Chinese Companies Donate Millions to Help Flood Victims

Cars loaded with flood-relief supplies are seen at a temporary flood-relief relocation site at Xinxiang No 2 Middle School in Xinxiang, Central China's Henan province, on July 25, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese companies lent a helping hand by making contributions and offering emergency aid services for disaster relief in Central China's Henan province, where the torrential rainfall caused casualties and property losses.

Chinese sportswear brands, including Anta, Erke, Li-Ning, Xtep and 361 Degrees, pledged to make donations in cash and material supplies to the flooded central province. Erke, which announced a 50 million yuan ($7.71 million) donation, has received widespread support on social media, given the company's low profile in the market in recent years, according to a China Daily report.

Tech companies also pledged millions for flood relief donation. Alibaba Group, as well as its payment unit Ant Group, respectively announced a 100 million yuan donation to Henan. Jack Ma Foundation, set by the group's founder, donated 50 million yuan for disaster relief and recovery.

Other internet giants, such as Tencent, ByteDance, Meituan, Pinduoduo and Didi Chuxing, announced donations of 100 million yuan, respectively.

Huawei donated 30 million yuan to Henan Charity General Federation, and sent over 1,100 engineers to restore the region's communication services.

Carmakers across the country responded to the disaster with donations as well, with contributions from companies totaling more than 800 million yuan by Friday, and the list of companies was still growing, said a China Daily report.

The country's new energy car startups were the first among car makers to offer a helping hand. Nio, Xpeng and Li Auto made their announcements on Wednesday, with a combined donation of 40 million yuan.

SAIC Motor promised donations of 10 million yuan in cash and 100 special vehicles for flood control and disaster relief. GAC group and its investment enterprises donated 15 million yuan and provided 15 million yuan worth of services including emergency rescue and maintenance.