Japan sees record population loss in 2023

Japan’s population saw a significant decline in 2023, as per the latest data released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan. A record loss of 831,872 people was reported, with the number of newborns also reaching a record low of 758,631.

The data revealed that the number of newborns in Japan decreased by 5.1 per cent in the reporting period, marking the eighth consecutive year of decline. This trend has been ongoing since 2022, with the number of newborns remaining below the 800,000 mark.

The shrinking population in Japan has been a growing concern for the country, with implications for various sectors such as healthcare, labor, and economy. The continuous decline in the number of newborns highlights the need for proactive measures to address the demographic challenges faced by Japan.

The government and policymakers will need to focus on implementing policies and initiatives to support population growth and address the underlying factors contributing to the decline. This includes measures to support families, improve work-life balance, and encourage immigration to offset the declining population.