China’s demographic crisis has deepened as the country recorded its lowest birth rate since the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949, dealing a major blow to Beijing’s efforts to encourage larger families and reverse population decline. Official data shows that the number of births fell sharply last year, pushing the birth rate to a historic low. This marks another year in which deaths outnumbered births, extending China’s population decline for the fourth consecutive year and raising serious concerns about the country’s long-term economic and social stability.

Despite years of policy shifts aimed at boosting childbirth — including the removal of the one-child policy, financial incentives, extended maternity and paternity benefits, and childcare subsidies — the measures have failed to reverse the downward trend. Analysts say the decline reflects deep-rooted structural challenges rather than short-term behavioural changes. Experts point to multiple factors behind the collapse in births, including rising living costs, expensive housing and education, job insecurity, and changing social attitudes among younger generations. Delayed marriages and a shrinking population of women of child-bearing age have further compounded the problem.

The legacy of decades of strict population control continues to weigh heavily on China’s demographics. The long-running one-child policy drastically reduced the number of potential parents, creating an imbalance that cannot be quickly corrected even with aggressive pro-natalist policies. Demographers warn that a shrinking workforce and a rapidly ageing population could slow economic growth, strain pension systems, and increase healthcare costs. With fewer young workers supporting a growing elderly population, China faces mounting fiscal and social pressures.

While authorities have signalled that additional incentives and reforms may be introduced, analysts argue that without broader changes — including better work-life balance, affordable childcare, and reduced financial burdens on families — China’s efforts to revive its birth rate are unlikely to succeed.

The record-low birth rate highlights a profound challenge for China’s leadership, with long-term implications for the country’s economy, labour force, and global influence. 

Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.