China has announced plans to build a “childbirth-friendly society” over the next five years as it attempts to tackle its declining birth rate and rapidly ageing population. According to a government report, authorities will introduce policies addressing employment, education, healthcare, income and housing support for families with children, while also promoting more positive attitudes towards marriage and parenthood.
The measures include expanding childcare subsidies, improving reproductive health services and ensuring that women face no out-of-pocket costs during pregnancy by 2026, with medical expenses – including IVF – fully covered by national insurance. The government also plans to strengthen social security, improve income distribution and maintain education spending above 4% of GDP.
The initiative comes after China’s population fell for a fourth consecutive year in 2025, with births dropping to a record low. Policymakers see reversing demographic decline as key to sustaining economic growth and domestic consumption.
Alongside pro-birth policies, Beijing is also focusing on the “silver economy” to support its growing elderly population. By 2035, the number of people aged over 60 is expected to reach around 400 million. Authorities plan to expand elderly care services, particularly in rural areas, while improving pension finance and healthcare support for seniors.
via Reuters
