Overseas investors were welcomed to participate in China's programs for the support of senior citizens as demands for such services were set to soar in the rapidly ageing nation, a senior official said.

"Businesses and nongovernmental institutions from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and foreign countries are encouraged to invest in the projects, which will enjoy preferential policies in the use of land, water and power, and taxation," said Vice Minister of Civil Affairs Dou Yupei at a press conference in Beijing on March 8.

People aged over 60 have accounted for 12.8 percent of China's total population, with their number reaching 170 million. The ratio is set to rise in future.

"There are only 2.3 million beds in nursing homes for the disabled, orphans and seniors at present. The government plans to double that amount by 2015, which means there will be 30 beds for every 1,000 residents," Dou said.