onsdag 22. mars 2023

Beijing’s population falls for first time since 2003 as China battles low birthrate

Beijing’s population has declined for the first time in almost two decades, new population figures have revealed. In 2022 there were more deaths than births in the Chinese capital, home to more than 21 million people, resulting in a natural population growth of minus 0.05 per 1,000 people. It is the first time the population has gone backwards since 2003.

The report by Beijing authorities said the city’s death rate rose to 5.72 deaths per 1,000 people, while the birthrate fell to 5.67 births per 1,000 people. Demographers said the move into negative territory was in line with national trends, demonstrating the economic and social factors underpinning China’s falling birthrate.