China’s population has experienced a decline for the second consecutive year, raising concerns about the future growth of the country’s economy. The latest data shows a population of 1.409 billion by the end of 2023, which is a decrease of 2.08 million compared to the previous year. This decline is double the rate of the previous year, indicating a significant shift in demographics for China.
Experts attribute this decline to China’s expanding urban class and its record-low birth rate. Similar to other countries that have undergone rapid deindustrialization, China’s population growth has been hindered by a decrease in fertility rates. Professor Stuart Gietl-Basten, a population policy expert at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, explains, “It’s not a surprise. They’ve got one of the lowest fertility rates in the world so this is just what happens – the population stops growing and starts to decline. It’s kind of locked in now…this is just the next year in this new era of population stagnation or decline for China.”
The Chinese government had implemented various policies and incentives to address the falling birth rate. In the 1980s, they introduced the controversial one-child policy to control overpopulation. However, the government lifted the policy in 2015 and further relaxed it in 2021 to allow couples to have up to three children. Despite these measures, young people in modern cities still face deterrents to starting a family, such as the high cost of living and prioritizing career advancement.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role in accelerating the decline in new births. However, experts believe that underlying economic issues, such as the property crisis, falling consumer spending, and youth joblessness, have had a greater impact. These issues have created financial insecurity and discouraged young couples from having children. As one Chinese internet user commented on Weibo, “If you let people live more easily, with more security, of course there will be more people wanting kids.”
The decline in China’s population has implications for its economy, which has long relied on its workforce as a driver of growth. With an aging population and increasing pressure on healthcare and pension systems, the country faces challenges in managing this transition. However, experts believe that China has the resources and plans in place to navigate this shift successfully. As the population becomes more educated and skilled, they seek employment in sectors beyond factories and construction, aligning with the country’s shift towards the service sector.
China’s shrinking population has also resulted in India overtaking it as the world’s most populous nation. With India’s population standing at 1.425 billion, China now faces the task of addressing its economic challenges while managing its demographics. The government’s long-term planning and focus on education and skill development are expected to support the country’s transition.
In conclusion, China’s declining population highlights the changing demographics of the country and the challenges it poses for the economy. The government’s efforts to encourage higher birth rates have had limited success, as young couples continue to face financial barriers and prioritize career aspirations. While the decline in population may have short-term economic implications, China has the resources and plans in place to navigate this transition successfully and adapt to a changing workforce.
