China rolls out national long-term care insurance system
China launched a national insurance system to support elderly citizens with disabilities. The plan uses employer and public funds to cover the whole population.
China has announced the implementation of a comprehensive long-term care insurance system, a strategic move intended to support families managing the needs of a rapidly aging population. The plan, released by the State Council, establishes a framework to provide medical care and basic nursing services for individuals suffering from sustained disabilities lasting six months or more. Officials describe the initiative as a critical pillar of the national social security network, essential for addressing the demographic shifts currently underway.
The rollout follows recent discussions at the National People's Congress, where policy refinements for senior wellness, pension financing, and specialized care were prioritized. The urgency of these measures is highlighted by demographic projections indicating that by 2035, the number of citizens aged 60 and over will reach 400 million. This figure is approximately equivalent to the combined populations of the United States and Italy.
