Effective January 1, 2025, each child will receive an annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan (approximately $500) until they turn three years old.

The subsidy will be granted to all children under three years of age born in accordance with Chinese laws and regulations, regardless of whether they are the first, second, or third child.

The assistance can be requested in person or online through a national system, in the name of one of the parents or guardians, in the child’s locality of residence.

Currently, more than 20 Chinese provinces already have local birth support programs, and the new system seeks to harmonize these initiatives, offering a national framework that guarantees equity and universal coverage.

Experts noted that the subsidy amount represents a reasonable proportion of the country’s per capita income, in tune with international experience, and while it is not a one-stop solution, it contributes to reducing economic barriers to having children and improves families’ prospects.

However, specialists such as Huang Wei of Peking University cautioned that financial support must be complemented by policies on childcare, education, housing, and parental leave to be effective.

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