China announced plans on Thursday to build a “childbirth-friendly society” over the next five years, alongside measures to refine its social security system and support families amid declining birth rates and an ageing population.
The government report highlighted efforts to improve employment, education, healthcare, and income for families. Authorities aim to foster “positive attitudes towards marriage and childbearing” while expanding housing support for families with children.
Medical costs for women during pregnancy, including in vitro fertilisation (IVF), will be fully reimbursable under China’s national medical insurance system starting in 2026, ensuring no out-of-pocket expenses.
Childcare subsidies will continue, with demonstrations and trials for subsidized childcare services planned, while reproductive health services and birth defect prevention programs will be enhanced.
Education reforms
The report detailed education initiatives, including refining policies for free preschool education and increasing senior secondary school places. Government spending on education is mandated to exceed 4% of GDP.
These measures aim to relieve financial and logistical pressures on families while improving long-term human capital development.
Addressing ageing
China’s population has been shrinking since 2022, with an ageing trend posing challenges for domestic consumption and pension systems. The government will introduce policies to develop the “silver economy,” expanding elderly care services, particularly in rural areas, and refining pension, wellness, and support programs for those over 60.
By 2035, the over-60 population is projected to reach 400 million, comparable to the combined populations of the U.S. and Italy. China has already raised retirement ages to 63 for men and 58 for women to address workforce shortages and pension pressures.
Beijing faces an estimated 180 billion yuan ($25.8 billion) cost to encourage births this year, covering national child subsidies, full pregnancy medical coverage, and expanded education and childcare support. These reforms are part of a broader strategy to sustain long-term economic growth amid demographic challenges.
