In a ground‐breaking move, China unveiled a nationwide childcare subsidy program set to boost support for families across the country. Starting this year, families will receive 3,600 yuan per year for each child under three, easing financial pressures and promoting a child‐friendly society 😊.
The policy is a key part of broader fertility support measures and is truly inclusive – benefits begin right at birth, whether for a first child or a subsequent one. Notably, the subsidies are exempt from individual income tax and won’t affect eligibility for other forms of assistance.
Experts are calling this a timely relief. Professor Ma Liang from Peking University highlighted how reducing the childcare burden can build a more supportive community, while He Dan from the China Population and Development Research Center emphasized the important social value of raising children 🎉.
As China faces the dual challenges of a declining birth rate and an aging population, this initiative comes at a crucial time. With local governments having piloted similar programs recently, the national rollout is expected to benefit over 20 million families each year, opening doors for even more tailored local fertility support policies.
The State Council Information Office is set to hold a press conference at 2 p.m. on Wednesday to share further details on the childcare subsidy system and other fertility support measures, reinforcing a national commitment to nurturing the next generation in our fast-paced modern society.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
