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Global Fertility Rates Plummet: Aging Populations at Risk

10/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Global fertility rates have fallen from 4.7 births per woman in 1960 to 2.2 in 2023, raising concerns about aging populations and potential workforce shortages.
In 2024, China recorded 1.2 births per woman and the United States 1.6, illustrating continued declines in major economies.
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the exception at 4.3 births per woman, while experts cite delayed parenthood and better family planning.

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Story summary

Global fertility rates have fallen from 4.7 births per woman in 1960 to 2.2 in 2023, raising concerns about aging populations and potential workforce shortages.
In 2024, China recorded 1.2 births per woman and the United States 1.6, illustrating continued declines in major economies.
Sub-Saharan Africa remains the exception at 4.3 births per woman, while experts cite delayed parenthood and better family planning.