China’s Birth Rate Rebounds in 2024, Boosted by Year of the Dragon
After seven years of decline, China is experiencing a baby boom in 2024. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), 9.54 million babies were born last year, an increase of 520,000 compared to 2023. The birth rate climbed to 6.77 per 1,000 people, marking a significant turnaround.
Yuan Xin, vice president of the China Population Association and a professor at Nankai University, attributes this rise to several factors. “The surge in marriages after the COVID-19 pandemic, the influence of the Year of the Dragon, and better childbirth support policies have all played a role,” he explained.
Year of the Dragon Baby Boom
The Year of the Dragon, which China is about to wrap up on the lunar calendar, is traditionally linked to an increase in births. In Chinese culture, the dragon—or loong—symbolizes power, strength, and good fortune. Many couples choose to have children during this auspicious year, hoping to pass on these qualities.
“Having a ‘dragon baby’ is considered lucky,” said Li Wei, a 28-year-old new mother from Beijing. “We wanted our child to be born in this special year.”
Post-Pandemic Marriages on the Rise
Official data shows that approximately 11.94 million Chinese people got married for the first time in 2023—a 13.52 percent increase from 2022. This is the first rise in newlywed numbers since 2014. Many couples had postponed their wedding plans due to the uncertainties of the pandemic.
“Now that life is returning to normal, people feel more confident about the future,” said Zhang Ming, a sociologist specializing in family studies. “This optimism is leading to more marriages and, subsequently, more births.”
Supportive Policies Make a Difference
China has been implementing policies to encourage families to have more children. In 2015, the country ended its decades-long one-child policy, allowing couples to have two children. This was further expanded in 2021 to permit three children per family.
Governments at all levels have introduced measures to create a more family-friendly environment. These include expanding childcare services, improving maternal health care, offering housing incentives, and providing better support in education and employment.
“Our comprehensive birth support policies are beginning to show results,” Yuan Xin remarked. “These efforts are crucial for addressing the challenges of an aging population.”
Looking Ahead
The rise in China’s birth rate is a significant development, not just for the country but also for the global community. A growing younger population can contribute to economic vitality and innovation.
However, experts caution that sustained efforts are needed to maintain this positive trend. “It’s important to continue supporting young families,” Zhang Ming emphasized. “Affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and a supportive social environment are key.”
Reference(s):
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