China Raises Retirement Age for the First Time Since the 1950s
In a landmark decision, China’s top legislative body has approved a gradual increase in the country’s retirement age, the first such move since the 1950s. The change comes as the nation faces an aging population and growing pressure on its pension system.
Starting January 1, 2025, the retirement age will rise incrementally over the next 15 years. For men, the retirement age will increase from 60 to 63, while for women in blue-collar jobs, it will rise from 50 to 55, and from 55 to 58 for those in white-collar jobs. The policy is part of broader reforms aimed at addressing demographic challenges and ensuring the sustainability of China’s pension system.
According to state media, the plan prohibits retiring before the statutory age but allows individuals to delay retirement by up to three years. Additionally, by 2039, employees will be required to have 20 years of contributions to the social security system to qualify for pensions.
Human Resources Minister Wang Xiaoping stated, “These changes are essential to better align our retirement system with China’s modern economic, social, and demographic landscape.”
The new policy also emphasizes creating more job opportunities for young people and strengthening protections for freelancers and unemployed individuals. This reform is seen as a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by China’s rapidly aging society.