BEIJING: China’s population has decreased for the third consecutive year, reaching 1.408 billion in 2024, despite a rise in newborns.

According to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, the total population declined by 1.39 million in 2024, an improvement compared to a 2.08 million drop in 2023 and 850,000 in 2022. Births in 2024 rose to 9.54 million, up from 9.02 million in 2023, but deaths, totalling 10.93 million, slightly exceeded births.

China’s aging population remains a growing concern. In 2024, 310 million people, or 22% of the total population, were aged 60 or older, a notable rise from 21.1% in 2023. This demographic shift underscores challenges for healthcare, pensions, and the workforce as fewer young people support an aging society.

Meanwhile, urbanisation in China has steadily increased, with the rate rising by 0.84 percentage points to 67% by the end of 2024. This shift reflects continued migration to cities for better job opportunities, education, and infrastructure, shaping the nation’s economic and social landscape.

The population decline raises concerns about the long-term impact on economic growth and labour market sustainability. Despite efforts to encourage births, including relaxed family-planning policies and incentives, the cost of living, education, and housing remain barriers to higher birth rates.

China faces the complex challenge of balancing its aging population with strategies to sustain its economy. Experts suggest that investing in automation, education, and healthcare reforms may be key to addressing these demographic shifts.

The declining population and aging trends will likely remain significant focal points for China as it navigates its path toward sustainable development in the coming decades.