China's population falls for a third straight year, posing challenges for its economy

China’s population fell for the third consecutive year, reaching 1.408 billion at the end of 2024, a decline of 1.39 million from the previous year. The declining birth rates and aging population pose significant demographic challenges for the country, with rising costs of living leading young people to delay marriage and children. The government’s past policies, such as the one-child policy, have contributed to a lopsided sex ratio and a rapidly aging population, putting pressure on China’s social security system and workforce.

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