Similarly, the NIEs are likely to enter the new stage of demographic burden with per capita incomes already above 20,000 U.S. dollars. Economies with high income levels as well as an adequate social capital infrastructure and social security system will be better prepared to cope with aging-related challenges.
In contrast, China is projected to enter the demographic burden period when its per capita income remains in the range 8,000 to 10,000 U.S. dollars (according to the projection of the International Monetary Fund [IMF]) – the level that defines a medium income economy.