China’s State Council has announced a new nationwide childcare support scheme, offering an annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan (approximately 500 USD) for every child under the age of three, starting January 1, 2025.

According to the official statement, the subsidy will apply to all eligible children born before the effective date, as part of broader efforts to enhance the country’s birth support system and address demographic challenges.

The initiative is in line with directives from the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee to improve the nation’s childbirth support infrastructure and incentivize family growth. Authorities say the plan is also aimed at building a more child-friendly social environment and easing the financial burden on young families amid declining birth rates.