China to tax contraceptives, raising health concerns

China will impose a value-added tax on contraceptives for the first time in over 30 years, effective January 1, 2026. This move aligns with Beijing's efforts to encourage higher birth rates, as contraceptive drugs and products will no longer be tax-exempt, facing a 13% tax. Experts express concern over potential increases in unplanned pregnancies and STIs due to higher costs, while some view the tax as a return to normal commodity pricing.