Beijing – China has announced plans to build a “childbirth-friendly society” over the next five years. The policy aims to address concerns about jobs, education, healthcare, and income.
The announcement was made in an official government report on Thursday. Authorities said they will improve population services and respond actively to the country’s ageing trend. The plan includes promoting full employment and improving income distribution.
Officials in China also pledged to strengthen the social security system. They said efforts will be made to create positive attitudes toward marriage and childbearing. Housing support for families with children will also be increased.
The move comes as China faces a continued population decline. Official data released in January showed the population fell for the fourth straight year in 2025. The birth rate dropped to a record low. Experts have warned that the decline may continue.
Population planning has become a central part of China’s economic strategy. According to estimates, Beijing could spend around 180 billion yuan this year to encourage births. A major cost is the national child subsidy introduced last year.
Authorities also promised that pregnant women will face no out-of-pocket medical expenses in 2026. All pregnancy-related costs, including IVF treatment, will be fully covered by the national medical insurance fund.
The government will continue its childcare subsidy program. It will also expand pilot projects for subsidized childcare services. However, detailed plans were not shared in the report.
Healthcare services for women in early pregnancy will be improved. The government will also focus on better prevention and treatment of birth defects.
Education policies will also be refined. Free preschool policies will be improved, and more senior secondary school places will be created. Government spending on education will remain above 4 percent of GDP.
At the same time, China is preparing for a rapidly ageing population. New policies will support the “silver economy,” targeting citizens aged 60 and above. Elderly care services will expand, especially in rural areas.
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By 2035, the number of people over 60 in China is expected to reach 400 million. This trend adds pressure to pension systems. China has already raised the retirement age to manage the growing burden.
