China has taken a step towards regulating the childcare industry at the national level, drafting legislation to standardise services and lower costs as policymakers fight to reverse a demographic decline that could have long-term economic ramifications.
The draft Childcare Services Law was submitted on Monday to the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress for review, according to Xinhua. The bill, comprising eight chapters and 76 articles, aims to establish a national legal framework for institutions and carers, focusing specifically on children under the age of three.
The move is “crucial to building a fertility-friendly society”, Xinhua said, adding that it would “lower child-rearing costs and improve population quality”.
It marks China’s first dedicated national law for a sector plagued by facility shortages, uneven quality, insufficient regulatory oversight and a lack of well-trained professionals.
High costs and scarce access to high-quality childcare remain primary deterrents for young couples, according to He Yafu, a Guangdong-based independent demographer.
“Expanding access to affordable, inclusive childcare services would help ease this anxiety for dual-income families and, in turn, boost fertility intentions,” He added.
However, the demographer warned that legislation alone would not be enough. He called for broader incentives, including cash subsidies, tax deductions and expanded parental leave.
