Japan’s population has fallen below 125 million according to the latest statistics, continuing a 13-year consecutive decline that poses significant challenges for the nation’s economy and social structure. As of October 1st, 2023, Japan’s population is around 124.35 million, down by 595,000 from the previous year, marking the largest decline since data collection started in 1950.This decline has been attributed primarily to a falling birthrate and an aging society. Furthermore, the average household size is also decreasing.
Single-person households are predicted to make up 44.3 percent of Japan’s households by 2050, as indicated by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research. The institute also forecasts that the average number of people per household will fall below two by 2033. This trend towards solitary living is particularly pronounced among the elderly population, where there is an expected rise in the number of individuals over the age of 65 living alone.
The ministry’s data indicated that the population aged 75 or older increased by 713,000 to around 20.08 million, surpassing the 20 million milestone for the first time. In contrast, the younger age groups exhibited a declining pattern, with the number of individuals aged zero to 14 years dropping by 329,000, and those between 15 and 64 years decreasing by 256,000. While the Japanese population is shrinking, the count of foreign nationals residing in the country has risen by 243,000, reaching approximately 3.16 million. This upsurge is particularly significant as foreign workers and students are now encompassed in the total population count after residing in Japan for over 90 days.
Amid these stark numbers, Tokyo stands out as the sole prefecture experiencing a population rise for the second consecutive year. This anomaly, however, does not significantly offset the overall trend of population decline nationwide. The government has recognized the importance of these demographic changes. Government Spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi, following the report’s publication, mentioned that the government is concentrating on revamping the social security system to aid individuals in adapting to this evolving environment.
Japan’s Prime Minister has stressed the importance of tackling these issues, taking a “now or never” position on improving the country’s birthrate to maintain economic vitality and social functions. As Japan deals with these demographic challenges, its efforts to lessen the effects of a declining and aging population will be closely watched.
Relevant articles:
– Japan population falls below 125 million, down for 13th straight year
– Drop in Japan’s Population: 13th Consecutive Year, Agencia EFE, Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:40:09 GMT