Vietnam ends two-child policy amid falling birthrate

Vietnam ends two-child policy amid falling birthrate

Vietnam has officially ended its decades-old two-child policy, allowing couples to decide freely on family size, state media announced Wednesday. The decision comes in response to a declining birthrate, which fell to 1.91 children per woman in 2024—below the replacement level.

Originally promoted in the 1960s and formalised in 1988, the two-child guideline was not strictly enforced but carried implications for Communist Party members. Authorities are now concerned about the potential impacts of an ageing population, including labour shortages and increased pressure on social welfare systems.

Birthrates are especially low in urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City, where economic factors deter young families. In response, local governments have introduced incentives such as cash rewards and certificates of merit to encourage childbirth.

Vietnam is also addressing a gender imbalance at birth, with a new proposal to increase fines for sex-selective practices. Similar demographic challenges are being faced across Asia, including in Japan, China, and Thailand.