China reported 14.65 million births in 2019, its lowest number since 1961, and the country’s population could start to shrink as soon as 2027, according to a state-run think tank in Beijing. Photo: Barcroft Media via Getty Images
Can China encourage its people to have more babies? New local government proposal attempts to address demographic fears
- Proposal to create a ‘good matchmaking environment’ and motivate women aged between 21 to 29 to give birth includes increasing benefits for married couples
- Experts raise doubts over the proposal, pointing to ethical issues over further population control and the high cost of living in Chinese cities
Topic |
Ageing society
China reported 14.65 million births in 2019, its lowest number since 1961, and the country’s population could start to shrink as soon as 2027, according to a state-run think tank in Beijing. Photo: Barcroft Media via Getty Images