Summary
China's population decreased for the fourth year in a row in 2025, with birth rates reaching a record low. The government has tried several strategies to encourage families to have more children, but the population still went down by about 3.39 million. Experts predict that China's population will keep shrinking, leading to possible economic and social challenges.
Key Facts
- China's population dropped by 3.39 million in 2025, falling to 1.4 billion.
- The birth rate was 5.63 per 1,000 people, the lowest since 1949.
- The death rate increased to 8.04 per 1,000 people, the highest since 1968.
- The Chinese government ended the one-child policy in 2016, later allowing up to three children per family.
- Financial incentives include 3,600 yuan per child under three in some areas.
- There is a 13% tax on contraceptives, raising concerns about increased unwanted pregnancies and HIV rates.
- China's fertility rate is around one birth per woman, lower than the replacement rate of 2.1.
- The United Nations estimates China's population will shrink by over half by 2100, affecting its economy and workforce.
