China imposes 13 percent VAT on contraceptives from 1 January

The Chinese government will begin levying a 13 percent VAT on contraceptive medicines and devices, including condoms, effective 1 January 2026.

The measure ends a VAT exemption that has been in place since 1994 and follows the phase‑out of the one‑child policy; authorities aim to boost the national birth rate.

Consumers will face higher costs, and the policy is intended to improve the population age structure and ease pressure on the pension system.