Taiwan has officially recorded the world’s lowest birth rate, surpassing South Korea, which had held this distinction for at least eight consecutive years. In 2023, South Korea’s birth rate fell to a historic low of 0.72 before showing a slight increase in 2024. Reports indicate that Taiwan’s fertility rate dropped to 0.72 in 2025, with just 107,812 births that year, triggering concerns about the implications of such low figures.
This demographic shift is not only a statistical anomaly but a serious societal issue for both nations. Taiwan’s low birth rate has been attributed to various factors, including high housing costs, career pressures on women, and shifting social values that emphasize self-fulfillment and delayed marriage. As a result, there is a growing aging population that poses significant challenges for the country.
Challenges of an Aging Population in Taiwan
The implications of Taiwan’s declining birth rate are profound. With a shrinking working-age population, the government faces increased pressure on its healthcare system and social welfare programs. As the number of elderly individuals rises, the demand for eldercare services grows, leading to a strain on resources and economic stability. Taiwanese officials describe the record-low birth rate as a severe structural crisis that threatens both economic sustainability and social cohesion.
President Lai Ching-te has been vocal about the urgency of addressing this issue, framing it as a critical national security concern. His administration has proposed several measures to combat the declining birth rate, including expanding childcare subsidies and promoting affordable care options. Furthermore, he has suggested allowing foreign caregivers to help alleviate the burden on parents.
Government Initiatives and Future Outlook
As part of his broader agenda, President Lai has committed to creating a family-friendly environment, building on initiatives introduced during his tenure as Vice President. This multifaceted approach aims to counteract the demographic changes that could destabilize Taiwan’s economy.
Despite the challenges, the global population continues to grow, currently standing at approximately 8.3 billion people. The contrast between rising global numbers and declining birth rates in certain regions illustrates the complexity of demographic shifts worldwide. As Taiwan and South Korea grapple with these issues, their experiences may serve as critical case studies for other nations facing similar challenges.
The situation in Taiwan underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policies that address the root causes of low birth rates while supporting families in a changing economic landscape. As countries around the world look to the future, the outcomes of these initiatives will be closely monitored for their potential to influence global demographic trends.
