After blind dating, mass weddings to boost birth rates, China now plans special trains for its growing elderly population

China plans to introduce a network of tourist trains equipped with medical and elder-care facilities, aiming to boost its “silver economy” by catering to the needs of its aging population. On Tuesday, the Culture and Tourism and Commerce ministries, along with China State Railway Group Co., released an action plan to launch these trains, designed specifically for retiree tourists. The nationwide network, expected to be completed by 2027, will feature various tourist routes, themes, and services.

Addressing the aging population

China has one of the world’s fastest-aging populations due to a baby boom in the 1960s and the decades-long one-child policy. According to China’s National Health Commission, 20% of its 1.4 billion people were aged 60 or older by the end of 2022, and this percentage is projected to exceed 30% within a decade.

Many retirees in China have pensions and savings, making them a key demographic to stimulate spending amid economic challenges. The government sees them as a group that can contribute to the economy, especially as the country faces a property sector slowdown and trade tensions.

International participation and funding

The plan allows international tourism companies and tourist train operators to take part in the project. National and local railway development funds have also been encouraged to support its implementation.

Medical institutions will collaborate with the railway department to provide healthcare services, including emergency treatment and medical personnel on board. Passengers will be able to claim medical expenses incurred on the network through health insurance.

Expanding the silver economy

In 2023, China announced a broader silver economy initiative, projected to be worth 30 trillion yuan ($4.1 trillion) over the next decade. The initiative focuses on services tailored for the elderly, including meal delivery, nursing homes, and entertainment.Tourism companies are also targeting senior travelers. Last year, Swiss-based Viking Cruises partnered with Shanghai’s University for the Elderly to offer history and culture courses as part of travel programs in Asia and Europe.

China’s Population decline

China’s population has been shrinking for three consecutive years. The working-age population, between 16 and 59, dropped by nearly 7 million in 2024, while the number of people aged 60 now make up 22 per cent of China’s total population.

To address these issues, the government has introduced a variety of measures, including blind dating events, mass weddings and financial incentives, to encourage young people to marry and have more kids.

Some local governments have even handed out cash incentives for young couples to get married.