Second child policy may be extended to all

A couple with their two children in this file photo. [Photo by Li Chuanping/Asianewsphoto]

The National Health and Family Planning Commission and other relevant departments are reportedly considering allowing all Chinese couples to have two children. Comments:

The introduction of a nationwide two-child policy could, to a certain extent, help elevate the low fertility rate in China. To give full play to the policy, comprehensive policies should also be introduced to reduce the burden of raising children to encourage couples to have a second child.

China Youth Daily, July 22

The public's reception of a two-child policy may not be as welcoming as expected, as has been shown by the lackluster response to the 2013 policy change that allowed couples to have a second child if either of them is an only child. In addition, people born after 1980 are less enthusiastic about having more than one child. Therefore, a sharp increase in births beyond society's capacity is unlikely. However, the introduction of a two-child policy might help somehow counterbalance the aging trend.

China Business News, July 22

The family planning policy is adjusting itself to better suit people's needs and the development of the population, and hence it is becoming more humane. However, before the details of any new policy are officially released, couples who want a second child but are at present forbidden from having should remain patient.

Scol.com.cn, July 22