China's Population: Retirement Age Adjustments and Global Comparisons

China’s Population: Retirement Age Increase

In a transformative move, China’s legislative body announced that the retirement age will rise by up to five years for both men and women. For men, the age will increase from 60 to 63, while female office workers see a change from 55 to 58. Blue-collar female workers, previously retiring at 50, will now retire at 55.

This transition will occur gradually over the next 15 years, starting January 1, 2025. On the same date in 2030, the minimum period for pension contributions will extend from 15 to 20 years.

Global Retirement Age Comparison

China's previous retirement ages were notably lower than in many developed countries. According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, the average retirement age in member countries was 63.6 years for women and 64.4 years for men in 2022.

• France: Raised retirement age from 60 to 62 starting in 2010, with further increments to 64 by 2027.
• United States: Official retirement age is 67, though many retire earlier, with average ages at 65 for men and 63 for women.
• Japan: Increased full retirement age to 70 as of 2021, although it's not mandatory.
• Italy: Set retirement age at 67, linked to life expectancy, with adjustments paused during COVID-19.

These changes reflect a global trend toward extending working life, influenced by social security benefits and the challenges posed by changing demographics. As China's population ages, these adjustments aim to foster a healthier economy and society.