After seven consecutive years of decline, China has experienced a significant rise in both newborns and the birth rate in 2024. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the number of newborns reached 9.54 million last year, marking an increase of 520,000 compared to 2023.
The birth rate for 2024 climbed to 6.77 per 1,000 people, up by 0.38 per thousand from the previous year. Yuan Xin, vice president of the China Population Association and a professor at Nankai University, attributes this growth to a surge in marriage registrations following the COVID-19 pandemic, the auspicious Year of the Dragon, and enhancements in China's childbirth support system.
The Year of the Dragon, celebrated in the Chinese lunar calendar, traditionally brings about a baby boom. The dragon, or loong, is a symbol of good fortune and the most auspicious among the 12 zodiac animals in Chinese culture.
Official data revealed that approximately 11.94 million Chinese individuals married for the first time in 2023, reflecting a 13.52 percent increase compared to 2022. This marks the first rise in newlywed numbers since 2014. Analysts suggest that many couples had postponed their marriage plans due to COVID-19, contributing to the recent surge.
\"As most Chinese still adhere to the tradition of marrying before having children, the rise in marriages is expected to boost the birth rate within one to two years,\" Yuan explained. \"Moreover, our comprehensive birth support policies are beginning to show results.\"
In response to declining birth rates, China ended its one-child policy in 2015, allowing couples to have two children. This policy was further expanded in 2021 to permit families to have a third child. Since then, both central and local governments have introduced various measures to create a more childbirth-friendly society, including expanding childcare systems and enhancing support in education, housing, and employment.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
