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China Introduces 13% Tax on Condoms to Boost Birth Rates

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

China will impose a 13% value-added tax on condoms and contraceptives starting January 1, 2026, the first such tax in 30 years.
The move aims to modernize tax laws and boost births, which stood at 6.77 per 1,000 in 2024.
Despite childcare subsidies, critics call the measure symbolic and unlikely to affect fertility.
Experts say the policy reflects government expectations for family behavior rather than an effort to increase births.

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Story summary

China will impose a 13% value-added tax on condoms and contraceptives starting January 1, 2026, the first such tax in 30 years.
The move aims to modernize tax laws and boost births, which stood at 6.77 per 1,000 in 2024.
Despite childcare subsidies, critics call the measure symbolic and unlikely to affect fertility.
Experts say the policy reflects government expectations for family behavior rather than an effort to increase births.