english.scio.gov.cn Chinese officials elaborated on the country s landmark childcare subsidy program at a press conference Wednesday, noting that the subsidy applies equally to first, second, and third children, regardless of household registration, ethnicity or location.  Earlier this week, China announced the nationwide subsidy program offering cash support to families raising children under the age of three, marking a significant step in the government s efforts to ease the cost of childrearing and encourage higher birth rates. Starting January 1, 2025, families with children under three will receive an annual subsidy of 3,600 yuan (about US$503) per child until the child turns three. For children born between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2024, subsidies will be granted on a pro-rated basis according to the number of eligible months.