Discussion keeps the world turning.
This is Roundtable.
Raising a child is no small feat.
And for many young families in China, the cost can be a deal breaker.
Now, for the very first time,
China is putting real money on the table to support families with newborns.
It's a big step in the push for a more birth friendly society.
But.
But can cash really inspire confidence in child rearing or even move the needle on birth rates?
Coming to you live from Beijing, this is Roundtable.
I'm Hui.
For today's program, I'm joined by Steve Hatherley and Yu Shan in the studio.
First on today's show,
all of China has just launched its first nationwide childcare subsidy for families with children under the age of three.
Starting late August, parents around the country can apply for the program,
which offers 3,600 yuan, or about US$500 per child each year.
The cash handout is expected to benefit tens of millions of households and marks an important step toward making child rearing a bit more affordable.
Let's start with the basics.
What is the subsidy?
Who gets it, how much, and how does it work?