In a striking demographic shift, China’s marriage applications plummeted from 7.68 million in 2023 to 6.1 million in 2024, marking a significant 20-percent decline. The Ministry of Civil Affairs reported this drop, underscoring the nation’s growing demographic challenges.
Despite a slight birth rate uptick, China’s population continued to decline in 2024. The National Bureau of Statistics reported that deaths outnumbered births, contributing to this downward trend. The year 2024 saw the lowest number of marriages since 1980, with over 2.6 million couples filing for divorce, a 1.1% increase from the previous year.
Demographers caution that the recent increase in births may be temporary. The rise is attributed to delayed marriages and the Year of the Dragon, which is traditionally seen as an auspicious time for childbirth. However, experts warn that this boost may not be sustainable in the long term.
The decline in marriage rates is part of a broader trend influenced by various social and economic factors. Young adults face a challenging economic outlook, high living costs, and changing attitudes towards marriage. Additionally, the gender imbalance and escalating gender polarization further complicate the situation.
China’s government has implemented several measures to address these demographic challenges. Initiatives include promoting marriage and childbirth through financial incentives, organizing mass weddings, and introducing “love education” courses in universities. However, these efforts have yet to reverse the declining trends significantly.
As China grapples with these demographic shifts, the implications for its future workforce and economic stability are profound. The nation’s policymakers must continue to innovate and adapt to mitigate the long-term effects of these demographic changes.
