BEIJING: China saw a 20.5 per cent drop in marriages last year, with only 6.1 million couples registering in 2024, down from 7.7 million in 2023, highlighting ongoing demographic challenges.
This decline comes amid the country’s third consecutive year of population decrease, with China’s 1.4 billion population aging rapidly—nearly a quarter are over 60. Despite government incentives to encourage childbirth, such as subsidies and pro-family messaging, high costs of living, education, childcare, and a tough job market are deterring young families.
“I can’t afford a house or marriage without my parents’ help,” said one Weibo user, adding, “Being single feels good—less pressure, I earn and spend my own money.”
China’s shrinking marriage rates and aging population pose risks to its workforce-driven economy and social welfare systems, with the government planning a gradual increase in the retirement age, currently one of the world’s lowest. – AFP
