China's baby steps: Ageing Beijing to tax condoms, contraceptives; why Xi is worried

China has begun taxing condoms and contraceptives at a 13% VAT rate, ending a long-standing exemption. This move signals a significant policy shift as the government intensifies efforts to combat a deepening demographic decline and boost birth rates. The population has fallen for three consecutive years, with experts warning of continued decline.

China's baby steps: Ageing Beijing to tax condoms, contraceptives; why Xi is worried
China has begun taxing condoms and contraceptives at a 13% VAT rate, ending a long-standing exemption. This move signals a significant policy shift as the government intensifies efforts to combat a deepening demographic decline and boost birth rates. The population has fallen for three consecutive years, with experts warning of continued decline.