China has announced ambitious plans to foster a birth-friendly society and bolster care and engagement for the elderly over the next five years. Health Minister Lei Haichao outlined these initiatives during a press conference on October 24, 2025, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to addressing demographic challenges posed by an aging population and declining birthrates. The strategy, part of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), includes promoting positive attitudes toward marriage and childbirth, enhancing fertility support policies, and providing childcare subsidies and tax incentives. Additionally, the government will pilot subsidized nursery care services and develop affordable, integrated care for toddlers and preschoolers to alleviate family burdens. On the elderly care front, China aims to optimize basic care services, integrate medical and elderly care, and expand long-term care insurance. Efforts will also focus on improving policies for elderly employment, delaying the legal retirement age, and fostering the silver economy. Lei stressed that health and population services must cater to all demographics, ensuring comprehensive coverage from prevention to rehabilitation. These measures are designed to lay a robust foundation for China’s modernization and sustainable demographic development.
China to build a birth-friendly society, enhance care and engagement for the elderly
