The Chinese government is imposing a 13% value-added tax on condoms and other contraceptives that have been tax-exempt since 1993[1] from January 1, 2026. This measure is part of the strategy to increase the birth rate in the country[2]. Between 1979 and 2015, the one-child policy was in place to slow population growth, when the birth rate was around 7 children per woman[3]. By 2023, the birth rate has dropped to a historic low of around 1.0[4]. The article states that sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, are on the rise worldwide and condoms are one of the most effective methods of protection[5]. The World Health Organization emphasizes their importance for the prevention of infections[6]. The move is part of a "sugar and whip" approach to boosting fertility[7].