In a pioneering move to address the low fertility rates in Hong Kong, global science and technology firm Merck Group has introduced a significant new benefit for its employees. The “Family Matters Initiative,” launched in collaboration with the Primary Care Education Foundation (PCEF) and virtual insurer Bowtie, will provide each employee with a fertility subsidy of HK$280,000.
This comprehensive support package is designed to cover a range of fertility-related expenses, including fertility testing, egg freezing, and treatments for infertility in both women and men. Specifically, it includes ovulation induction (OI), intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilisation (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), hormonal treatments, and sperm retrieval surgeries.
The initiative is aimed at easing the financial strain on employees and encouraging higher birth rates, thereby contributing to a rise in Hong Kong’s overall fertility rate.
Tony Cheng, Managing Director of Merck Hong Kong & Macau, commented on the initiative: “We are delighted to provide our employees with substantial support for their family planning needs. This initiative not only enhances our employees’ quality of life but also positively influences Hong Kong’s fertility rate. We are committed to hosting various activities under the ‘Family Matters Initiative’ to support the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s society.”
Hong Kong’s fertility challenges are highlighted by the United Nations Population Fund’s “Annual Report 2023,” which lists the city among those with the lowest fertility rates globally. Data from the Census and Statistics Department reveals a 77% decrease in fertility rates among women aged 20-24 over the past three decades, while fertility rates among women aged 40-44 have surged by 91%.
In response to these trends, an online survey conducted in the first half of 2024 by three organizations found that less than 30% of approximately 200 surveyed employees reported that their employers offered fertility support measures. The survey also indicated that 84% of respondents desired more flexible working arrangements to aid in childcare, and 51% would be more inclined to consider having children if their employers provided additional childbearing incentives.
The “Family Matters Initiative” seeks to foster a family-friendly work environment, offering various measures including educational and fertility subsidies to support employees in building families and contributing to Hong Kong’s future growth.
Additionally, Merck Group and its partners will promote fertility awareness through educational videos and articles.
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