Key points from article :
China's population declined for the third consecutive year in 2024, decreasing by 1.39 million to reach 1.408 billion, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This trend reflects an ongoing challenge as deaths continue to outpace births. While births rose slightly in 2024 to 9.54 million, up from 9.02 million the previous year, the overall trajectory remains downward, exacerbated by longstanding demographic and structural issues.
China's population decline can be traced to its decades-long “one-child policy” (1980–2015), urbanization, and cultural preferences that have led to a skewed gender ratio. High childcare costs, economic uncertainty, gender discrimination, and traditional expectations of women have further discouraged marriage and family-building. Despite efforts to boost the birth rate, including marriage and fertility education and incentives for local governments, experts argue that fundamental societal reforms are necessary to reverse the trend.
Demographic pressures are influencing China’s policies. Measures such as gradually raising the retirement age aim to address an ageing workforce, while economic growth, reported at 5% in 2024, is expected to slow further. The number of women of reproductive age is projected to drop by two-thirds by the end of the century, underscoring the urgency of the crisis.
China's challenges are not unique; Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are also experiencing population declines. Shared factors include ageing populations, declining birth rates, and restricted immigration policies. These trends highlight a global issue that requires innovative policy responses to balance demographic and economic stability.
