Japan’s Population Declines by Record 898,000 Amid Demographic Crisis

The decline, driven by aging demographics and a record-low fertility rate (1.2 children per woman in 2023), has prompted urgent policy measures. In June 2024, Japan passed legislation to boost birthrates, expanding child allowances and parental leave. Officials warn the pre-2030 period is critical to reverse the trend, citing late marriages, financial pressures, and inadequate support for working parents as key barriers.

This demographic crisis threatens Japan’s labor force and economic stability. The previous record drop (861,000) occurred in mid-2024, reflecting accelerating decline. Without intervention, projections suggest the population could shrink below 100 million by 2050.

Japan’s population dropped by a record 898,000 in October 2024 compared to the previous year, marking the 14th consecutive annual decline and the sharpest since 1968, Anadolu Agency reported. Government data shows the total population—including foreign residents—fell to 120.3 million, with only Tokyo and Saitama prefecture seeing growth.