Japan is facing unprecedented demographic challenges, with the number of children in the country reaching another record low. According to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication, the population of children aged 14 or younger has dropped for the 43rd consecutive year, totaling around 14.01 million as of April 1. This decline has caused the ratio of children to Japan’s total population to decrease to 11.3%, reaching an all-time low.
The declining number of children is just one aspect of Japan’s demographic trend, which has been steadily worsening since around 2010. The overall population of Japan has been declining, resulting in persistent labor shortages and putting pressure on Japan’s medical and social security expenses. The increasing proportion of elderly individuals in the country is exacerbating these issues, as they require more resources and support from a shrinking workforce.
Japan’s birth rate remains one of the lowest in the world and continues to fall below the replacement rate, further contributing to this demographic trend. With these challenges in mind, the future outlook for Japan’s population growth is concerning. The aging population, low birth rate, and declining number of children are posing significant economic and social obstacles for the country. Addressing these issues will be crucial for Japan’s long-term sustainability and prosperity.