Story perspectives

Asia's Birth Rates Plummet Amid AI and Financial Pressures

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Asia faces declining birth rates, with fertility below the replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman.
Analysts say artificial intelligence raises skill demands on workers and distracts families, worsening the trend.
Financial pressures and career obligations deter people in their thirties and forties, who are usually ready to start families.
James Liang of Peking University says competition for educational and professional advancement drives heavy tutoring and training investment.

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Story summary

Asia faces declining birth rates, with fertility below the replacement rate of 2.1 children per woman.
Analysts say artificial intelligence raises skill demands on workers and distracts families, worsening the trend.
Financial pressures and career obligations deter people in their thirties and forties, who are usually ready to start families.
James Liang of Peking University says competition for educational and professional advancement drives heavy tutoring and training investment.