Key facts
- China's cabinet called for more support to stabilize new births.
- The State Council aims to create a "fertility-friendly society".
- Policies to be refined include those related to marriage, childbirth, child-rearing, education, taxation, social security, and housing.
China's cabinet has called for increased policy support to stabilize the number of new births as the country grapples with a declining population and a record-low birth rate. The State Council, China's cabinet, stated on Friday that the government should refine policies related to marriage, childbirth, child-rearing, and education, while also optimizing taxation, social security, and housing to foster a "fertility-friendly society."
China's population has fallen for four consecutive years, with experts warning of further declines. Policymakers are concerned about the impact of a shrinking and aging population on the social insurance system and economic growth, which has been hampered by weak domestic consumer demand. Officials emphasized that population is a foundational condition for economic and social development, calling for efforts to support "high-quality population development."
In recent years, authorities have increased fiscal support for boosting births, including a nationwide childcare subsidy program and tuition fee reductions for preschools. The cabinet meeting also addressed the need for more equal basic public services, aligning with reforms to the household registration system to grant urban services to rural migrants.