Beijing Wants Babies: Condoms, Contraceptive Drugs Hit With Double-Digit Tax To Boost Birth Rate

China is implementing measures to combat its declining birth rate, including removing tax exemptions on contraceptives, effective January 1st. This decision follows three consecutive years of declining birth rates, raising concerns about the future. The government previously introduced childcare subsidies and promoted "fertility-friendly" policies, such as positive portrayals of marriage. China's falling birth rates trace back to the one-child policy and rapid urbanization, alongside high costs and economic uncertainty. Experts predict significant population decline over the next 30 years, likely impacting the global economy. China is responding with export subsidies to address domestic economic distortions. While global fertility rates are generally falling, African nations have the highest rates. India's fertility rate has also significantly decreased, and the United States experiences persistent declines as well. Several Asian and European countries have critically low fertility rates below one child per woman.