Government considers ways to build a 'parent-friendly environment'

The government is taking steps to encourage more couples to have a second child by lowering the cost of raising children.

"We will raise the personal income tax threshold and introduce expense deductions for items such as children's education and treatment for serious illnesses, relieving the burden when necessary," said Premier Li Keqiang on Monday, when he presented the Government Work Report at the opening session of the National People's Congress.

Last year, 17.23 million children were born in China, roughly 630,000 fewer than in 2016, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.