China is set to introduce a value-added tax (VAT) on condoms and contraceptives for the first time in three decades as part of efforts to address its declining birth rate. Concurrently, Australia is grappling with questions regarding its domestic intelligence agency's handling of a recent attack in Bondi, which left 15 people dead and many others injured.

China's New Tax on Contraceptives
Beginning January 1, 2024, condoms and other contraceptives will be subject to a 13% VAT, a tax that has not been applied since the introduction of nationwide VAT in 1993. This measure is part of a broader effort to modernize China’s tax system, which relies heavily on VAT for revenue. The decision has drawn ridicule on social media, with users questioning the effectiveness of such a tax in encouraging higher birth rates.

China's birth rate has been in decline, with a recorded rate of 6.77 births per 1,000 people in 2024, despite various incentives aimed at encouraging larger families. The government has introduced measures such as cash subsidies for additional children and expanded childcare support, but these have had limited success. Reports have emerged of local authorities monitoring women's menstrual cycles in an effort to boost birth rates, raising concerns about privacy and autonomy.

Australia's Bondi Attack and Intelligence Oversight
In Australia, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke expressed full confidence in the Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) amidst scrutiny over its actions related to the Bondi attack. Naveed Akram, the alleged perpetrator, was charged with multiple offenses, including murder, after a shooting that resulted in 15 fatalities. Questions have arisen about how Akram was able to travel to the Philippines without alerting authorities, given his previous associations with individuals linked to Islamic extremism.

The Jewish community in Bondi is mourning the loss of victims, including a 10-year-old girl. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the attack as "pure evil" during a multi-faith memorial service, calling for unity among Australians. He rejected accusations from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the Australian government’s recognition of Palestine has incited antisemitism and violence against Jewish Australians.

Wrap-up
Both China and Australia are facing significant societal challenges. China’s new tax on condoms reflects its struggle to reverse a declining birth rate, while Australia confronts the aftermath of a tragic attack that has raised questions about national security and community safety. The responses from both governments reveal the complexities of addressing demographic and security issues in contemporary society.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team