The Chinese government will spend at least 18.1 billion yuan (about 2.8 billion U.S. dollars) annually starting next year to subsidize disabled people in need, a civil affairs official said Friday at a press briefing.

The money will be allocated from both the central treasury and local governments, but deputy Civil Affairs Minister Zou Ming did not reveal the percentage each will provide.

The subsidies mainly target disabled people living below the poverty line and those with the most serious disabilities, with the amounts varying depending on local economic conditions, Zou said.

"By Jan. 1, 2016, a national subsidy system will be established, and more than 20 million disabled people are expected to benefit from the program," he said.

China has about 80 million people with physical or mental disabilities.

Currently, 20 of the 31 provincial regions on the Chinese mainland issue subsidies for the disabled, with an average monthly allowance of about 100 yuan for one person, according to Zou.

He admitted the current subsidies are small on average, but added they may reach as much as 741 yuan per month in some areas such as Shanghai, one of China's wealthiest and most expensive cities.

Zou promised that the subsidies will gradually increase along with economic development. Endi

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