China's population decline persists despite birth uptick
China has recorded a negative natural increase for the third consecutive year despite a rise in the number of births, according to the National Statistics Bureau.
China has been experiencing a negative natural increase for the third year in a row, even though the number of births has slightly increased. At the end of 2024, the population was 1.408 billion, which is a decrease of 1.39 million people compared to 2023, according to statistics from the Chinese statistical office.
In 2024, 9.54 million children were born in China, up from 9.02 million in 2023. Despite this, the number of deaths amounted to 10.93 million, contributing to a further decline in the population. The death rate has reached its highest level in five decades.
"One child policy"
Demographic changes in China are the result of the "One Child Policy," which was abolished in 2016. Authorities allowed for the possibility of having three children, but young people are reluctant to have offspring. The average age of getting married and having a first child continues to rise.
Demographers noted that a 12.4% increase in the number of marriages in 2023 influenced a temporary rise in the number of births in 2024. However, it is expected that this number will decline again in 2025. The male population stood at 719.09 million, and women at 689.19 million.
People aged 16 to 59 make up almost 61% of the population, while the 60+ age group constitutes 22% of the society. These data indicate an aging population, which may have long-term effects on the country's economy.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, there are 104.34 men for every 100 women. These demographic changes could affect the future of China both socially and economically.
