15.12.2025 07:15
President Erdoğan's characterization of the decline in birth rates as a "threat greater than war" has prompted action not only in Turkey but also in the Chinese government. The Chinese administration, which has imposed a 13% additional tax on birth control products that have been exempt from taxes for 32 years, is also preparing to implement some social support measures aimed at increasing fertility.
One of the most populous countries in the world, China, has taken a notable step against declining birth rates. The government announced that a value-added tax of 13% will be applied to contraceptive products such as condoms, birth control pills, and IUDs. The regulation is reported to come into effect on January 1, 2026.
THE TAX EXEMPTION HAS ENDED
With this decision, the tax exemption that has been in effect since 1993 and has been applied for 32 years has come to an end. Authorities stated that the decision is driven by concerns over rapidly declining birth rates, an aging population structure, and a shrinking workforce.
A 35% DECREASE IS OCCURRING
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, 9.5 million babies were born in China in 2024. This figure represents a decrease of approximately 35% compared to the 14.7 million births recorded in 2019. Although there was a short-term increase in births due to the Year of the Dragon effect, the overall trend is reported to be downward. With births falling behind deaths, China lost its title as the world's most populous country to India in 2023.
China had strictly limited births with its one-child policy implemented from the 1980s until 2015. The policy was gradually relaxed with the allowance of two children in 2015 and three children in 2021, during which time contraceptive methods were promoted by the state and some services were offered for free. The new tax regulation has faced criticism for contradicting these previously followed policies.
SOCIAL SUPPORTS WILL BE INTRODUCED
On the other hand, the Chinese government is also preparing to introduce some social supports to increase fertility. Accordingly, it is planned to extend maternity leave from 128 days to 158 days, to extend paternity leave to 30 days, and to provide an annual government support of $500 for children born after January 1, 2025.
ERDOĞAN SAID "WE ARE EXPERIENCING A DISASTER"
Similarly, officials in Turkey, including President Erdoğan, also consider declining birth rates as a significant risk. In his latest statement on the matter, Erdoğan said, "The total fertility rate measured last year was 1.48. We are currently experiencing a disaster. This is a threat greater than even war."