China decides to relax only one child restriction per couple

As you know, there is a restriction applicable in China for most couples that limits the number of children to only one. However, according to the BBC, the country's authorities intend to relax this condition, allowing families in the future to have two children.

Restriction of one child per couple was introduced in the 1970s to curb rapid population growth in the country. The policy was very strictly instituted, and those who did not respect it could be forced to pay severe fines, lose their jobs and even their homes.

The policy had few exceptions that applied to some ethnic minorities and to Chinese couples consisting of two only children who lived in urban centers or rural-dwelling families whose firstborn was a girl. In such cases couples were allowed to have a second child.

Imbalances

However, according to the publication, the restriction has been generating discussions, as it is estimated that by the year 2050 more than a quarter of the population will be over 65 years old, which may result in a reduction in the workforce and intensification of issues. related to care for the elderly.

In addition, the traditional preference for male babies has also led to a gender imbalance in the country - due to selective abortions - and it is estimated that by the end of the decade there will be a “surplus” of approximately 24 million men to whom There will be no wives.

The proposed reform will now allow couples to have two children and should gradually take place, making the necessary adjustments to promote the balanced development of the Chinese population. Another proposal presented was the abolition of “re-education” through the work camps, as well as the presentation of some initiatives to encourage private sector growth.

Possible consequences for the future

According to the Quartz website, it is estimated that the measure will result in an increase of 9.5 million births per year. In addition, the proposal puts an end to a social experiment that changed Chinese society and probably served to contain not only population growth but economic growth as well. Here are some possible consequences expected from the new two children per couple policy:

Greater workforce

After the workforce of approximately 930 million people has declined for the first time in decades - and this trend is even more intense in the coming years - the rising birth rate will eventually result in an increase in the number of people living in the region. can support the elderly population. However, this will take some time.

Most consumers

With more babies, there is also an increase in the consumption of child-friendly products such as food, clothing and educational services. In addition, there may be a shift in the current export-oriented focus on China, with an increase in domestic consumption.

Greater gender balance

While relaxing the constraint does not imply a cultural shift toward boys' preference for girls, it may be that the pressure on parents to have male children is reduced and the current imbalance between women and men is reduced.

Increased pressure on natural resources

An increase of 95 million births annually also means increased pressure on available resources. After all, every new inhabitant will need food, water and housing, which will be a problem, as currently the country's per capita arable land corresponds to half of the world average, and 40% of the total is considered degraded. In addition, the government has already warned that by 2030 water demand may not be met.