China's Birth Rate Hits Record Low, Policies Fail to Lift Births

China's birth rate has fallen to a record low, with only 5.6 births per 1,000 people in 2025, down from 6.4 in 2023. This decline is part of a larger demographic crisis, with the population shrinking for the fourth consecutive year, dropping by 3.4 million to 1.405 billion. The number of babies born last year was approximately 7.9 million, significantly fewer than the 9.5 million born in 2023, despite government efforts to encourage larger families through subsidies and expanded parental leave. The decline is attributed to young people delaying marriage and childbearing due to economic pressures and intensifying competition in the workforce. With the elderly population growing, China's demographic challenges are mounting, posing major economic risks. The share of the population aged 60 and above rose to 23% in 2025, up from 22% in 2024. Economists warn that a shrinking workforce and aging population will strain the pension system and squeeze disposable income for younger workers.