China has announced its first increase in the retirement age since the 1950s to address demographic challenges posed by an aging population. Starting January 1, 2025, the retirement age for men will gradually rise from 60 to 63, while the age for women will be adjusted from 55 to 58 for white-collar workers and from 50 to 55 for blue-collar workers over the next 15 years. This policy shift is driven by rising life expectancy, which reached 78 years in 2023, alongside the need to utilize human resources effectively. The reforms allow for voluntary early retirement and options to extend working years, providing flexibility for employees. This change comes amid concerns over the sustainability of China’s pension system, which is projected to face deficits as the population ages. Experts argue that further incentives may be necessary to encourage longer work life as the country adapts to these demographic shifts.