Imagine leveling up in a video game, but instead of power-ups, were tracking peoples health and education. During the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), the Chinese mainland hit a new high: average life expectancy climbed to 79 years by end of 2024 – thats 1.1 years more than in 2020! 📈👴👵
Lei Haichao, head of the National Health Commission, calls it a notable improvement for a developing region. Even better? Health gaps between provinces are shrinking, meaning more people across the board are living healthier lives. 🤝
Its not just about living longer – folks are learning more, too. New workers entering the job market in 2023 had an average of 14 years of education. Plus, over 250 million people have now pursued higher education. Thats like having millions of new college grads leveling up the workforce! 🎓🚀
But every epic story has its challenges. The Chinese mainland's population aged 60 and above reached 310 million (22% of the total) by late 2024. Those 65 and older totaled 220 million, or 15.6% of the population. At the same time, birth rates dipped for seven years straight before a slight rebound in 2024. 👶📉
So, whats next? This demographic transformation means fewer workers, more retirees, and big questions for pensions, healthcare, and economic growth. Will new policies and innovations help keep the balance? Stay tuned as the Chinese mainland writes its next chapter! 🔮
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
