China's Fertility Rate Hits Record Low of 1.09, Threatening Economic Growth

China's fertility rate has reached a record low of 1.09 in 2022, making it the lowest among countries with a population of over 100 million. This decline in fertility has raised concerns for Chinese authorities who are trying to boost the population, especially as the country experienced its first population drop in six decades.

The government has implemented several measures to increase the birth rate, including financial incentives and improved childcare facilities. The main reasons behind China's population drop are high childcare costs and limited career options for women after having a child.

Many women are discouraged from having more children or any at all due to gender discrimination and traditional stereotypes. The Hong Kong Family Planning Association reported a significant increase in childless women and couples in the region, with the average number of children per woman dropping to a record low of 0.9 in 2021.

While China aims to focus on education, science, and technology to improve population quality, it is projected to lose nearly half of its population by the end of the century. This population decline is expected to have a negative impact on economic performance.

Despite loosening restrictions on childbearing, such as allowing couples to have up to three children and scrapping birth registration limits in some provinces, these measures have not been successful in boosting the birth rate. Experts argue that financial and administrative incentives will have little effect as long as the wider economic situation remains bleak.

Discrimination against mothers in the workplace also discourages women from starting families. A survey of students revealed that many have a negative attitude towards marriage and view it as incompatible with their career aspirations. The declining birth rate in China reflects a sense of hopelessness among its population, which is struggling to find opportunities for upward mobility.

As the cost of living rises and employment prospects dwindle, many young people are prioritizing their careers over starting a family. The Chinese government will need to address these underlying issues to effectively address the population decline and ensure sustainable economic growth.