The Government will verify the details of businesses applying for the Retail Sector Subsidy Scheme under the Anti-epidemic Fund.

It made the statement today in response to media enquiries.

The scheme was launched to provide relief to retailers hard hit by the coronavirus epidemic and requires that applicants should be conducting substantial and substantive retail businesses.

Applicants’ businesses should also have commenced before January 1.

As of 6pm, the scheme received nearly 60,000 applications.

During the vetting process, the Government will examine the business registration certificates and other supporting documents submitted by the applicants, including a recent photograph of the shopfront, a rental receipt and a water or electricity bill to consider whether an application is eligible.

The Government will not make a decision solely based on the nature of business, as stated in the business registration certificate.

Additionally, the Government will verify the business registration information submitted by the applicants with the administrative records from the Business Registration Office.

If relevant business registration information was revised recently, the Government might request additional information and documents.

For enquiries concerning the details and application procedure of the scheme, call 1836 111 or send an email.

The application deadline is April 12.