China population: 100 million more senior citizens expected in next decade as ageing crisis enters ‘crucial juncture’

China’s ageing society problem will accelerate over the next decade, with the number of citizens aged over 60 expanding by an average of 10 million per year, according to a leading demographer, adding further strain to the state pension fund, elderly care facilities and medical services.

The acceleration will push the number of senior citizens to 520 million by 2050, or 37.8 per cent of the population, according to Renmin University of China vice-president Du Peng.