Summary
China's population has continued to shrink for the fourth year in a row, reaching 1.404 billion in 2025. The birth rate has decreased to its lowest since 1949, despite government efforts to encourage more births by offering incentives and policy changes.
Key Facts
- China's population was 1.404 billion in 2025, down by 3 million from the previous year.
- The birth rate in 2025 dropped to 5.63 per 1,000 people, the lowest since 1949.
- China was surpassed by India as the most populous nation in 2023.
- Birth rates have decreased for seven consecutive years through 2023.
- Government efforts to increase the birth rate include cash incentives and policy changes.
- China's aging population is growing, with 323 million people over 60 years old.
- The Chinese government previously enforced a one-child policy, revised to three children by 2021.
- Economic challenges, such as high living costs, are cited as reasons for the declining birth rate.
