In 2022, the ferlitily rate of China, known to be one of the most populous countries of the world, is estimated to have plummeted to a record low of 1.09 in 2022, as per media reports. With this development, China becomes the country with lowest fertility level among countries with a population of more than 100 million.
Why China is witnessing a population drop?
According to the experts,high childcare costs and limited career options after having a child are playing crucial role behind the plunge in fertility rate as many women are getting skeptical about having children.Besides, widespread prevalence of gender discrimination and traditional stereotypes of are also equally accountable for it.
Paternity leave is still limited in most provinces in the country.
According to Hong Kong's Family Planning Association, the number of childless women in the special Chinese administrative region more than doubled from five years ago to 43.2% last year while the percentage of couples with one or two children also fell.
What is China doing to boost the plunging fertility rate?
It has been reported by China's National Business Daily that, considering the two paradoxical demographic metrics - the rapidly ageing population and an unprecedented low rate fertility - Beijing is keeping no stone unturned.
From increasing financial incentives to imtroducing improved childcare facilities- Bejing has been trying real hard to boost the country's declining number of new births.
Besides, in light of the current scenario, China has decided to focus on education, science and technology as well to improve population quality.
