Japan records population decline for the 14th consecutive year

(Patria) - Japan's population has fallen for the 14th consecutive year to 123.8 million in October 2024, a decrease of 550,000 compared to the previous year, according to official data released yesterday.

Excluding foreigners from the population count, the decline is even more pronounced – a total decrease of 898,000 people, bringing the number of Japanese nationals to 120.3 million.

This is the largest drop ever recorded since the government began collecting comparable data in 1950, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Japan's birth rate is among the lowest in the world, leading to a smaller workforce, lower consumption, and difficulties for companies in finding workers.

- The birth rate continues to fall because many people who want to raise children cannot fulfill their desires - said Japanese government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi.

Many young Japanese are postponing marriage and childbirth for various reasons, from job insecurity to changing social values that place less emphasis on marriage.

Although Japan has turned to young foreign workers, a strict immigration policy remains in place, allowing foreign workers entry only on a temporary basis.

The government is also striving to increase wages for young people while simultaneously providing childcare support, Hayashi announced.

- We will promote comprehensive measures to create a society where all those who wish to have children can have children and raise them in peace - Hayashi added.