China Ends Tax Exemption on Contraceptives Amid Birth Rate Concerns | AI News Digest

Published: December 4, 2025, 10:51 a.m. Health Negative

Publisher: AI News Digest
Original report: ABC News

Recent reports indicate that China is poised to raise prices on contraceptives, including condoms and birth control pills, as the government ends a long-standing tax exemption that has existed since the One-Child Policy. This adjustment, set to take effect next month, is part of a larger initiative by Beijing to tackle the nation's declining birth rate, which has experienced a downturn for three consecutive years. Analysts caution that this tax increase could disproportionately impact women, young people, and those with lower incomes, potentially limiting access to crucial contraceptive options. This policy shift marks a significant transition in China's family planning strategy, moving away from strict population control towards encouraging higher fertility rates. Critics contend that this decision neglects issues of gender equality and may complicate efforts to curb sexually transmitted infections among young people.

ChinaContraceptivesBirth RateTax PolicyPublic Health