Continuous trading of futures and options during nighttime will resume on major Chinese commodity exchanges in early May.

Dalian Commodity Exchange, Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE) and its subsidiary, the Shanghai International Energy Exchange (INE), will restart the continuous trade on May 6, they announced on Friday.

The resumption is aimed at helping investors hedge risks as the global commodity market, which China's commodity market is closely interconnected to, saw huge fluctuations since the COVID-19 outbreak.

Currently there are 18 futures contracts and three commodity options listed on SHFE and INE, including futures on copper, gold, crude oil and natural rubber, as well as options on copper, natural rubber and gold.

SHFE and INE temporarily suspended continuous trading of futures and options during nighttime since February 3, the first trading day after the Spring Festival holiday was extended due to the epidemic.

All members shall make preparations to ensure the smooth functioning of the market, said SHFE, adding that it will arrange simulated nighttime trading on April 26 to prepare for the resumption.

(With input from Xinhua)