Suzhou to fund private museums

The government of Suzhou in east China's Jiangsu Province has decided to provide subsidies to the city's private museums. The highest subsidy to be offered amounts to as much as 2 million yuan, or more than 300,000 US dollars.

Suzhou is one of China's famous ancient cities. It boasts a multitude of historical sites. There are now 19 registered private museums in Suzhou and the number is on the increase. By the end of 2015, there will be nearly 100 private museums in the city.

The subsidies will go to those covering an area of over 700 square meters. Local authorities are hoping this move will encourage even more private funding to museums.