China's Population Crisis Deepens: Policies Fail to Boost Birth Rates

• China's population declined since 2022 despite ending the One-Child Policy a decade ago, with 2024 births at 9.5 million, down from 14.7 million in 2019.
• An aging population (over 20% aged 60+) and rising STIs/abortions complicate efforts to reverse the demographic trend.
• Government increased parental leave and allowed up to three children, but high costs of raising children, education competition, and economic uncertainty deter families.
• New VAT on contraceptives sparks public concern over unwanted pregnancies, while childcare and elder care are exempted.
• Many women view childbearing as a personal choice, citing government interference and economic pressures as reasons for reluctance.

Why It Matters: Despite policy shifts, China faces a deepening population crisis as economic and social factors deter new births.