Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the Chinese government's commitment to stabilizing the new birth population scale, indicating a shift from merely discussing fertility policies to setting specific population targets, which may lead to enhanced support for birth-related policies [1][3]. Group 1: Birth Policy Developments - The Central Economic Work Conference has consistently addressed fertility policies for five consecutive years, with this year's focus on stabilizing the new birth population scale, suggesting a potential increase in policy support [1][3]. - From 2021 to 2024, the government has progressively enhanced the fertility support policy framework, culminating in the 2024 conference's call for the formulation of new pro-birth policies [3][4]. - Various supportive measures have been implemented, including tax deductions for childcare costs, waiving fees for public kindergarten classes, and annual subsidies for families with children under three years old [3][4]. Group 2: Education Resource Allocation - The changing demographics, particularly the peak in preschool and primary school populations, necessitate adjustments in educational resource allocation, with a focus on increasing high school and higher education capacities [6][7]. - The 2024 enrollment for regular high schools is projected to exceed 10 million, marking a significant increase from the previous year, reflecting the need for expanded educational resources [6][7]. - The government aims to enhance the quality and quantity of higher education by increasing the enrollment capacity of "Double First Class" universities, responding to the public's demand for quality education [7]. Group 3: Fiscal Policy Adjustments - The Central Economic Work Conference has called for optimizing fiscal expenditure structures, particularly in education, healthcare, and elderly care, to improve public welfare [9][10]. - In 2025, the central government's transfer payments to local governments are expected to reach 10,341.5 billion yuan, reflecting an 8.4% increase, aimed at supporting various social programs [9]. - The implementation of free preschool education is set to expand nationwide, benefiting approximately 12 million children, with a significant portion of funding coming from central and provincial governments [9][10].
中央重磅定调生育、教育政策
21世纪经济报道·2025-12-12 13:11