In an exciting move aimed at supporting families and building a child-friendly society, China on Monday introduced a nationwide childcare subsidy program. Under this new policy, families will receive 3,600 yuan (about $503) per year for each child under the age of three. The subsidy is tax-exempt and won’t be counted as household or individual income for assistance eligibility, ensuring that even those facing challenges can fully benefit.
This initiative, set to aid over 20 million families annually, is seen as a timely relief for parents in the Chinese mainland. Professor Ma Liang of the School of Government at Peking University explained that the subsidy kicks in from a child’s birth, rather than only for additional children, highlighting an inclusive commitment to ease the financial burden of childcare. 👶❤️
He Dan from the China Population and Development Research Center added that the policy reinforces the vital social value of raising children while also allowing local governments room to develop tailored fertility support measures. Facing a dual challenge of a declining birth rate and a rapidly aging population, the strategy reflects China’s proactive efforts to balance demographic trends.
Originally featured in the annual government work report in March and tested by several local pilot programs, the childcare subsidy now takes a national stage. Stay tuned for more details at the upcoming press conference by the State Council Information Office on Wednesday at 2 p.m., where further insights into the childcare subsidy system and fertility support measures will be shared.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
