China Launches First Nationwide Childcare Subsidy to Combat Population Crisis

China has announced its first-ever nationwide childcare subsidy, offering parents 3,600 yuan (about $500) per child under the age of three each year. This move is part of a broader effort to address the country's declining birth rate and looming demographic crisis. The policy aims to reduce the financial burden of raising children and encourage families to have more kids. While over 20 provinces already had similar programs, this is the first time the initiative is being implemented nationwide. However, experts remain skeptical that the relatively modest payouts will be enough to reverse the trend of falling births.