According to an official government report, China announced plans to build a “childbirth-friendly society” over the next five years, aiming to address concerns related to employment, education, healthcare, health, and income on Thursday.

Authorities will enhance population services and take proactive measures on ageing, including promoting high-quality, full employment, improving the income distribution system, and refining the social security system. The report also stated that authorities will foster positive attitudes towards marriage and childbearing and increase housing support for families with children.

China’s population declined for a fourth consecutive year in 2025, official data showed in January. Experts have warned that the decline may continue in the coming years.

Major costs include the national child subsidy, first introduced last year, along with a commitment that women will incur no out-of-pocket expenses during pregnancy in 2026. All medical expenses, including In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), will be fully covered by the national medical insurance fund.

Services for women in the early stages of pregnancy and reproductive health will be enhanced, while authorities aim to better prevent and treat birth defects.

Officials will also improve policies on free preschool education and expand the availability of regular senior secondary school places.

The report said new policies will be launched to encourage the high quality development of the silver economy, focusing on individuals aged 60 and above, with expanded elderly care services, especially in rural areas.

Authorities will also introduce measures to strengthen senior support policies, covering pension funding, healthcare, and overall wellbeing.