China is undergoing a significant reform to its statutory retirement age, which will see it gradually increase over a 15-year period. This phased adjustment is set to commence on January 1, 2025.
The Phased Retirement Age Increase
The reform aims to standardize and incrementally raise the retirement age across different demographics. This initiative reflects a broader trend among nations to address demographic shifts and ensure the sustainability of pension systems.
Upon the full implementation of this gradual increase, the statutory retirement ages will reach the following targets:
| Demographic | Target Retirement Age |
|---|---|
| Men | 63 years old |
| Women in Managerial and Technical Roles | 58 years old |
| Women in Ordinary Worker Roles | 55 years old |
This means that by the end of the 15-year transition period, which will be around 2040, these will be the established retirement ages for individuals in China based on their gender and role. The exact year an individual retires will depend on where they fall within this gradual increase timeline, starting from the reform's effective date in 2025.
