Fertility rates hit record low, causing a decrease in the population due to a significant reduction in births.
Taiwan Sees All-Time Low Birth Rate and Population Decline
Last month, Taiwan witnessed an unprecedented low in the number of births, marking a monthly record low, as per data released by the Ministry of the Interior. A total of 8,684 babies were born, equivalent to approximately one baby born every five minutes, making the annual crude birthrate 4.52 per 1,000 people. Hearteningly, 6,520 couples exchanged vows, including 167 same-sex marriages, but on the downside, a notable 4,334 divorces were recorded.
This new low in birth rates has led to a significant decline in the overall population, which marked its 16th consecutive monthly drop last month. 17,205 deaths were reported, resulting in a natural decrease of 8,521 individuals. Tragically, more people are leaving Taiwan, with a net migration loss of 947, pushing the total population decline to 9,468. As of the end of last month, the population stood at 23,365,274, a decrease of 49,826 from the same time last year, equivalent to an average daily decrease of 136 people.
Interestingly, Taoyuan County reported the highest annual population growth rate at 1.02 percent, while the outlying counties of Lienchiang (Matsu) and Kinmen, as well as Taipei, experienced the sharpest declines.
Looking beyond, these demographic changes point to broader challenges faced by many developed economies, with persistently low fertility rates at the heart of the issue. It's worth noting that adolescent birth rates worldwide, including Asian regions, have seen a significant decline over recent decades, indicative of a similar trend in Taiwan. Future population projections put the figure around 23.38 million, although specific growth or decline rates for the 16-month period were unavailable.
These sustained low birth rates and an aging population are likely to shape Taiwan's demographic landscape in the coming years. While more research and data are needed to fully grasp regional differences within Taiwan, it's clear that reproductive behaviors among different age groups will play a crucial role in shaping the country's future demographics.
The decline in Taiwan's population could potentially be addressed through initiatives in the realm of science and health-and-wellness, aiming to promote a healthier lifestyle and increase fertility rates. Yaniv, a reproductive scientist, suggests a study on the impact of stress on Taiwanese reproductive health as a potential starting point.
Compared to other developed countries, Taiwan should explore innovative solutions for health-and-wellness programs, particularly focusing on reducing stress and improving reproductive health, in an effort to combat the persistently low fertility rates. A combination of science-based interventions and community-driven health initiatives could be instrumental in shaping Taiwan's demographic future.
