Japan’s population has fallen below 120 million for the first time in decades, marking the 17th consecutive year of decline, according to official government data….
Japan’s population has fallen below 120 million for the first time in decades, marking the 17th consecutive year of decline, according to official government data.
The figures showed the country’s Japanese population continued to shrink amid a low birth rate and an ageing society, highlighting the demographic challenges facing the world’s fourth-largest economy.
“Japan’s population has declined for the 17th consecutive year, falling below 120 million for the first time in decades,” the government data showed.
The data also revealed that the number of foreign-born residents reached a record high, reflecting Japan’s growing reliance on overseas workers to help ease labour shortages.
“The number of foreign-born residents hit a new high,” the report said.
Officials have repeatedly warned that reversing the population decline remains a major challenge despite efforts to encourage higher birth rates and support families.
The latest figures underscore mounting pressure on Japan’s workforce, healthcare system and social welfare programmes as the population continues to age.
