China has introduced a comprehensive plan to combat HIV/AIDS for the period of 2024 to 2030, aiming to curtail new infections, lower HIV-related fatalities, and maintain the nationwide HIV infection rate below 0.2 percent by 2030. The plan, issued by the State Council, outlines ambitious targets and strategies to address the challenges of HIV prevention and control.
By 2025 and 2030, the prevalence of high-risk behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) is expected to decline by over 10 percent compared to the previous five years. Additionally, by 2025, comprehensive intervention measures are projected to reach over 95 percent of individuals engaging in high-risk behaviors, while the annual new infection rate among those in drug maintenance therapy will be held below 0.2 percent—a benchmark set to be sustained through 2030.
The plan acknowledges the severe challenges in HIV/AIDS prevention, which are exacerbated by complex societal factors. High infection rates among MSM, coupled with substantial heterosexual transmission—often hidden and difficult to detect—underscore the need for intensified prevention and control measures.
Efforts to reduce intra-family transmission are also a priority. The plan aims to reduce the mother-to-child transmission rate of HIV to below 2 percent by 2025 and maintain it at this level through 2030. Similarly, the spousal transmission rate in serodiscordant couples is targeted to remain below 0.3 percent within the same timeframe.
Improving the effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment is another central focus. By 2025, more than 90 percent of individuals living with HIV are expected to be aware of their infection status, increasing to over 95 percent by 2030. Furthermore, by 2025, over 95 percent of diagnosed individuals should be receiving antiretroviral therapy, and 95 percent of those treated should achieve viral suppression, with ongoing improvements by 2030.
Public education on HIV prevention and control is highlighted as crucial. By 2025, the general awareness rate of HIV prevention knowledge among residents is set to surpass 90 percent, while awareness among key populations and high-risk groups is expected to exceed 95 percent. Similarly, more than 95 percent of people living with HIV will be informed of their rights and responsibilities, with further progress by 2030.
To ensure these objectives are met, the plan emphasizes the need for strong leadership, clear accountability, and robust funding mechanisms. It also calls for systemic improvements, enhanced prevention capabilities, reliable access to medications, promotion of research and innovation, and strengthened international collaboration. These measures are designed to provide the foundation necessary for achieving the overarching goals of the plan.
