China to Gradually Raise Retirement Age Amid Public Backlash

The new policy, starting in 2025, aims to address economic pressures from an aging population and a shrinking workforce.

China will increase the retirement age from 60 to 63 for men and from 50-55 to 55-58 for women, with the changes phased in over 15 years.
The policy has sparked significant public criticism, particularly among younger generations who feel burdened by the extended work period.
China's pension system is under strain due to a rapidly aging population and one of the world's lowest birth rates, necessitating urgent reforms.
The new retirement age policy aims to ease pressure on pension funds but is seen as unfair, especially given the disparity between public and corporate sector pensions.
Chinese social media has been flooded with concerns about the long-term implications of the reforms, with many fearing increased job competition and inadequate social safety nets.