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China Funds All Childbirth Costs to Boost Falling Birth Rate
15 Dec
Summary
- China will cover all childbirth expenses by 2026.
- The initiative aims to incentivize more couples to have children.
- China's population has declined for the first time in decades.
China's national healthcare security administration has announced a significant policy shift, pledging to cover all out-of-pocket expenses for childbirth starting next year. By 2026, the nation aims for full reimbursement of all policy-covered medical costs related to childbirth, including prenatal examinations.
This ambitious initiative is a direct response to Beijing's struggle to boost the country's flagging population. China experienced its first population decline in decades in 2022, a trend that has persisted and is expected to continue due to persistently low birth rates.
Factors such as the legacy of the one-child policy, rapid urbanization, and the high costs of childcare and education have discouraged young couples. Authorities are also implementing measures like childcare subsidies and free preschool education to address these concerns.
