Japan's Population Decline Reaches Record Levels
New data shows the fastest drop in Japanese citizens since the 1960s, straining the economy and social systems.
- Japan's population fell by over 861,000 in the past year, marking the steepest decline ever recorded.
- The birth rate hit a new low with only 730,000 births, while deaths reached a record high of 1.58 million.
- Foreign residents increased by 11%, but their numbers are insufficient to offset the overall population decline.
- Labor shortages are intensifying, with many businesses struggling to find workers despite low unemployment rates.
- Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has pledged significant investment in child care and family benefits to address the crisis.