BEIJING: Despite China’s efforts to reverse its declining birth rate, an increasing number of young couples are opting to remain child-free, highlighting the limits of government incentives. Twenty-five-year-old Grace and her husband, for example, have decided not to have children, resisting societal and familial pressure. Their choice reflects a broader trend among young Chinese couples […]
population decline
China ends tax break on contraceptives amid population decline
China has removed a long-standing tax exemption on contraceptive drugs and devices in a fresh attempt to reverse the country’s declining birth rate, as demographic pressures continue to mount in the world’s second-largest economy. From January 1, condoms and contraceptive pills are subject to a 13 per cent value-added tax, the standard rate applied to […]
China’s former one-child policy chief Peng Peiyun dies
The death of Peng Peiyun, a former senior Chinese official who oversaw the country’s controversial one-child policy, has sparked a wave of criticism on social media rather than praise for her legacy. Peng died in Beijing on Sunday, just days short of her 96th birthday, Chinese state media reported. Read More: China’s three-child policy is unlikely […]
China to cover all childbirth pocket medical expenses from 2026
China announced that it will cover all out-of-pocket medical expenses related to childbirth starting next year, as part of efforts to encourage more young couples to start families. The national healthcare security administration said the policy will include prenatal checkups and other medical services associated with childbirth. Read More: China to pay parents $500 a […]