Birth Rate Panic In China Deepens As Condoms Turn Expensive For Third Straight Year

New Delhi: The government's concern regarding the declining birth rate in China is now clearly visible in its policy decisions. After registering a decline in population for the third consecutive year, China has decided to impose a 13 percent VAT on condoms and other contraceptive means from January 2026. This is the same country where the population was controlled through the one-child policy for decades.

Now the situation has reversed. The government wants to encourage more children. Under this thinking, tax exemption has been abolished. Beijing hopes that the cost of contraceptives will reduce their use and increase the birth rate.

Why is concern about China's population increasing?

China's birth rate has been continuously falling for the last few years. The situation did not improve even in 2024. The elderly population is increasing. People of working age are decreasing. This has increased pressure on the economy and social structure. The government is seeing this as a long-term threat.

Why was a tax imposed on condoms and contraceptive methods?

Till now these products were tax-free in China. This system was the result of the old population policy. Now the government has changed its thinking. He believes that easy availability of contraceptives is driving the birth rate down further. These have been made expensive by imposing taxes.

Does the government think that this will increase the birth rate?

This is the government's thinking. Policymakers believe that when condoms and medicines become expensive, people will avoid using them. This will increase the possibility of expanding the family. However, not everyone agrees with this argument.

How are experts viewing this decision?

Health experts have expressed concern. They say that increasing taxes does not increase population. This may increase the risk of unwanted pregnancy. There is also a possibility of the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Its impact can be especially severe on the poor class.

What is the reaction of social media and common people?

The decision is also being mocked on social media. Many people are asking whether making condoms expensive will lead to the birth of children. Some people say that the government is diverting attention from the real problems. The youth's concern is not taxes; it is the future.

Why even the three-child policy could not show any effect?

China has already implemented the three-child policy. Along with this, subsidies and incentives were also given. Despite this the situation did not change. It is clear from this that the problem is not just about rules. Social and economic pressures are heavier.

What signs are hidden in this for India?

Experts believe that China's problems can become an opportunity for India. India has a young population. The working class is strong. In the coming times, global companies can look towards India for investment.

How easy is the road ahead for China?

Experts say that merely changing the tax policy will not be enough. If families do not see a secure future, the birth rate will not increase. Affordable education, better health, and employment are necessary. Without these reforms the results will remain limited.

Overall, the decision to tax condoms reflects China's changed thinking. But whether this step will become a solution or create new problems will be answered in the coming years.