Guangdong has officially retained its title as China’s top birth province for the seventh consecutive year, with an impressive 1.13 million births recorded in 2024, making it the leader nationwide.
The province has long been heralded for its economic dynamism and population advantages, with its high level of marketization, open economy, and constant influx of talent from other regions.
The result is not just a growing population, but also a booming consumer market that continues to fuel Guangdong’s economic expansion.
However, while the numbers are noteworthy, a deeper look reveals a troubling trend.
The overall birth rate in Guangdong continues to decline — a phenomenon that mirrors a broader national pattern.
READ MORE: China's Birth Rate Declines for 8th Consecutive Year
Despite being number one in births, the province’s birth rate is still struggling to keep up with the pressures of modern life.
In 2023, Guangdong’s birth rate per 1,000 people was just 7.9 — a sharp drop from the 9.6 recorded just a decade ago.
With Guangdong’s fast-paced lifestyle, many young couples face pressures related to career development, cost of living, and housing — all of which can discourage having children.
A growing number of people are opting to delay or forgo starting a family altogether.
At the same time, there is a nationwide decline in marriage rates and an increase in divorce rates, both of which play a crucial role in China’s overall demographic shifts.
China’s marriage rate has dropped by over 20% in the past decade, with many young people prioritizing education and career before settling down.
And when marriages do take place, they’re often occurring later in life, further delaying childbearing.
Meanwhile, in 2023, China’s divorce rate reached 3.1 per 1,000 people, up from 2.8 in 2019, further illustrating the challenges modern relationships face.
READ MORE: China Makes Marriage Much Easier & Divorce Even Harder
Can China sustain its economic powerhouse status in the face of a declining birth rate? Or will the 'baby boom' become a thing of the past?
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[Cover image via Pixabay]
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