In complete inverse of their mainland counterparts, Hong Kong legislators are considering giving out cash handouts and tax rebates to couples who have extra children in hopes of alleviating the strain of the island's aging population.
The government's Steering Committee on Population Policy raised the idea of financial incentives similar to those offered in Singapore and Canada.
In Singapore, parents receive a "baby bonus" of 29,471 Yuan for their first two children and 39,295 Yuan for their third and fourth. In Canada, parents receive monthly government subsidies ranging from 921 Yuan to 1,092 Yuan.
Other proposals included tax incentives to employers who pay for childcare services for their workers, paid parental leave for employees to visit schools to review their children's report cards, and improved access to assisted reproductive treatment
According to predictions, one third of Hong Kongers will be aged 65 or over by the year 2041.