By 1999, Chinese society had entered an aging era when people older than 60 years old made up 10% of the entire population. Ten years later, this figure increased to 12.79 % of the populion, which represents 169 million people.The Ministry of Civil Affairs stated a belief that “China is rushing into an aging society at a speed that is exceeding our imagination.” It was suggested that over the next 25 years, China should be getting ready to develop a strategy to deal with this issue. Development plans, laws and regulations, social and economic policy adjustments – all need to be prepared.
Source: Xinhua, October 26, 2009.
http://news.xinhuanet.com/politics/2009-10/26/content_12328694.htm