China’s local governments pushed to give cash handouts

(FILES) This file picture taken on January 7, 2016 shows an employee counting 100-yuan (15 USD) banknotes at a bank in Lianyungang, in eastern China's Jiangsu province. In the event of a trade war with the United States, China could resort to devaluing its currency or dumping its massive holdings in US debt, but analysts warn both weapons could be double-edged swords. / AFP PHOTO / - / TO GO WITH AFP STORY: "CHINA-US-TRADE" Focus by Ryan MCMORROW

BEIJING: China’s central government is urging local authorities to offer handouts to people struggling with the cost of living, Xinhua news agency reports, citing a notice from the Civil Affairs Ministry.

Municipalities with the means are encouraged to provide financial aid ahead of the New Year and the Lunar New Year festival in late January, state-owned Xinhua reported on Saturday.