Core Viewpoint - The introduction of dividend-type critical illness insurance in China is being pursued by major insurance companies like Ping An, China Pacific Insurance, and New China Life, following the regulatory approval that allows such products after a 22-year ban [1][3]. Group 1: Regulatory Changes and Market Context - The National Financial Regulatory Administration's guidelines effective from October 2025 will enable insurance companies with good ratings to offer dividend-type long-term health insurance, marking the official "unbanning" of these products [1]. - The previous ban in 2003 was due to concerns that some insurers were misusing dividend-type critical illness insurance as pure financial products, straying from their intended purpose of health coverage [1][2]. Group 2: Market Demand and Product Development - The traditional critical illness insurance market has seen a decline in new premiums for five consecutive years, as consumers seek products that combine coverage with wealth management features [2]. - The low interest rate environment has diminished the appeal of fixed-income insurance products, making dividend-type insurance with variable returns more attractive [2]. Group 3: Industry Response and Strategic Focus - Major insurers are actively preparing to launch dividend-type critical illness insurance, with Ping An and China Pacific Insurance confirming their commitment to follow regulatory developments closely [3]. - The health insurance market is expanding, with leading insurers integrating health management into their broader strategic frameworks, such as China Pacific's "352 Health Service Blueprint" and Ping An's focus on "comprehensive finance + medical health" [3][4]. Group 4: Company Initiatives and Health Management - Companies like Ping An, China Pacific, and New China Life have established specialized health insurance and management companies, indicating a significant investment in health-related services [4]. - The establishment of health management companies by major insurers reflects a strategic shift towards enhancing health insurance offerings in response to regulatory changes [4].