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China's Birth Rate Plummets Amid Economic Uncertainty

1/11/2026

30 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

China faces a demographic crisis as births fall to 9.54 million in 2024, down from 2016, while the population ages.
Many young couples cite high costs and economic uncertainty as reasons to remain child-free, reflecting cultural shifts and a weak economy.
Taiwan is also becoming a super-aged society, with 20% of its population aged 65 or older, and both nations are implementing measures to encourage childbirth.

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Story summary

China faces a demographic crisis as births fall to 9.54 million in 2024, down from 2016, while the population ages.
Many young couples cite high costs and economic uncertainty as reasons to remain child-free, reflecting cultural shifts and a weak economy.
Taiwan is also becoming a super-aged society, with 20% of its population aged 65 or older, and both nations are implementing measures to encourage childbirth.