Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown Measures on Chinese Startups and Local Government Public Finance: Challenges and Policy Implications

This paper aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the public finance of Chinese local governments, with a particular focus on the effect of lockdown measures on startups during the pandemic. The outbreak has placed significant fiscal pressure on local governments, as containment measures have led to declines in revenue and increased expenses related to public health and social welfare. In tandem, startups have faced substantial challenges, including reduced funding and profitability, due to the negative impact of lockdown measures on entrepreneurship. Moreover, the pandemic has generated short- and long-term economic shocks, affecting both employment and economic recovery. To address these challenges, policymakers must balance health concerns with economic development. In this regard, the government should consider implementing more preferential policies that focus on startups to ensure their survival and growth. Such policies may include financial assistance, tax incentives, and regulatory flexibility to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. By and large, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on both the public finance of Chinese local governments and the startup ecosystem. Addressing the challenges faced by local governments and startups will require a comprehensive approach that balances health and economic considerations and includes targeted policies to support entrepreneurship and innovation.