BEIJING — Chinese central authorities vowed to ensure a steady supply of fertilizer in preparation for spring farming amid its fight against the novel coronavirus.

Solid efforts should be made in encouraging fertilizer enterprises to resume production in a well-organized manner, according to a guideline jointly released by 16 central departments, including the National Development and Reform Commission.

Priority should be given to ensure a steady supply of raw materials needed to produce fertilizer, including coal and natural gas, to increase fertilizer output in preparation for spring farming, said the guideline.

The guideline also underscored the need to ensure the smooth transportation of fertilizer and called for strengthened coordination of fertilizer reserves and fertilizer imports.

Financial institutions are encouraged to increase credit support for fertilizer production and transportation enterprises. Activities including hoarding and price-gouging of fertilizer will be severely punished, said the guideline.