China's population declines for third consecutive year in 2024

China's population decreased for the third straight year in 2024, dropping by 1.39 million to 1.408 billion. This follows a decline of 2.08 million in 2023, marking a continuing trend where deaths outnumber births. Despite a slight increase in births to 9.54 million in 2024, the overall birth rate remains low. Recent government efforts to encourage higher birth rates have not reversed the long-term decline, attributed to economic challenges and social factors. In response, China has introduced measures to promote marriage and family, including changes in education and adjustments to retirement age. The country faces a significant demographic challenge, with projections indicating a sharp decline in the number of women of reproductive age.