In an effort to combat the country’s declining population, local authorities in China are offering cash incentives to encourage more couples to marry. Zhang Gang and Weng Linbin, a newlywed couple from Luliang in northern Shanxi province, posed with their 1,500-yuan ($205) marriage bonus, one of many rewards being offered across the country.
This financial incentive is part of broader government efforts to address China’s ongoing population decline, which saw a drop for the third consecutive year in 2024. The reward, equivalent to half a month’s wage for urban residents in Luliang, is aimed at boosting marriage rates, which fell by 20% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Zhang expressed support for the policy, calling it an effective solution to the current social and economic pressures discouraging young people from marrying. However, despite the cash offer, many young people still cite high costs of living, especially education and childcare, as significant barriers to marriage and starting a family.
In addition to marriage rewards, Luliang is offering further financial incentives, including subsidies and medical insurance contributions for registered newborns. Couples are given varying cash bonuses for each child: 2,000 yuan for the first child, 5,000 yuan for the second, and 8,000 yuan for the third.
The marriage rush in Luliang has been noticeable, with hundreds of couples seeking marriage certificates since the policy took effect in January. Yet, experts caution that the apparent surge in marriages may be misleading, as many couples were already planning to wed but chose to delay until the new incentives became available.
However, despite the financial incentives, societal issues such as the reluctance of men to marry highly educated women and an overall disinterest in marriage remain significant challenges. Many women, particularly those with stable incomes and careers, are increasingly opting out of marriage altogether.
China’s aging population is a growing concern for the government, and various regions have launched similar initiatives to encourage marriage and childbirth. In some areas, subsidies for families with multiple children have proven effective in reversing declining birth rates.
Despite the incentives, some individuals believe that love, rather than financial perks, remains the primary motivator for marriage. Zhang, for instance, noted that while the cost of marriage can be daunting, true love will ultimately drive couples to marry, regardless of the rewards.
