So much for the theory that a pandemic that required couples to spend time together at home would trigger a baby boom. For China, the disappointment will be acute. Births fell 15 per cent last year, according to China’s ministry of public security. A government that once pursued a one-child only policy now says couples can have three each.
Baby-related stocks jumped on Tuesday on Chinese exchanges. But the rally will not last. The influence of governments and faith leaders on reproduction rates is low compared with economics.
Shares that rose by their 10 per cent daily limit on mainland exchanges included toy makers Goldlok Holdings and Shanghai Aiyingshi. Infant formula maker Beingmate was another. In Hong Kong, Aidigong Maternal & Child Health, which provides care to mothers and babies, rose 14 per cent.