China's Population Continues Downward Trend for Fourth Consecutive Year
China's population has decreased for the fourth year in a row. This ongoing decline highlights the significant demographic issues confronting the world's second-largest economy. The latest data reveals a troubling picture of falling births and rising deaths.
Official Statistics Show Sharp Drop in Population
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, China's total population stood at 1.405 billion at the end of 2025. This figure represents a decrease from the 1.408 billion recorded in 2024. The numbers confirm a persistent downward trajectory.
New births in the country plummeted to 7.92 million in 2025. This marks a substantial drop from the 9.54 million births registered in 2024. The birthrate per 1,000 people also fell sharply to 5.63, down from 6.77 the previous year.
These figures represent the lowest number of births and the lowest birthrate since records began in 1949. That year coincided with the founding of the People's Republic of China, making the current data historically significant.
Simultaneously, the number of deaths increased to 11.31 million in 2025. This rise from 10.93 million deaths in 2024 further exacerbates the population decline.
Understanding the Context Behind the Numbers
The steep decline in births during 2025 can be partly explained by a temporary increase in 2024. Most of that year fell within the auspicious Year of the Dragon. Chinese culture traditionally views this period as favorable for marriage and childbirth, leading to a brief spike.
However, aside from that temporary boost, births have been steadily decreasing since 2017. A critical turning point occurred in 2022 when deaths first surpassed births in the country.
Decades of China's strict one-child policy have created lasting demographic consequences. The policy, which ended in 2015, contributed directly to a rapidly aging population. Fertility rates now remain well below the replacement level needed to sustain the population.
This demographic shift poses a serious threat to future economic growth. A shrinking and aging workforce could hinder productivity and increase pressure on social support systems.
Government Responses and Broader Implications
Chinese leaders have introduced various initiatives aimed at encouraging more births. These measures include child-care subsidies and other family support policies. Despite these efforts, demographers largely believe such policies are insufficient to reverse the population decline at this stage.
In many other nations facing similar aging populations, immigration often helps offset low birthrates. Immigration can introduce younger workers and help maintain a balanced demographic structure. China, however, has virtually no immigration to speak of, which limits this potential solution.
The combination of record low births, rising deaths, and minimal immigration paints a challenging picture for China's demographic future. The fourth consecutive year of population decline underscores the depth of this ongoing crisis.
