Reform and Development of the Social Security System

The social security system that China practiced under the planned-economy period has undergone a whole series of reforms over the past thirty years. Enormous progress has been made in setting up the systemic framework for a new social security system that is suited to the needs of a market economy. ¹ This chapter takes a brief look at the accomplishments of reform and opening up, and analyzes current challenges and ongoing issues. It then makes policy recommendations regarding the orientation and future development of social security in China.