China's Population Declines in 2025 Despite New Birth Incentives

China's population declined for the fourth consecutive year in 2025, falling to approximately 1.4 billion with 7.92 million births—a 17% drop from the previous year and the lowest birth rate since 1949. Despite policy efforts including cash subsidies for new parents, tax changes on contraceptives, and increased retirement ages, birth rates continue to fall amid economic pressures, high child-rearing costs, and shifting social attitudes. The demographic decline raises concerns over an aging population and shrinking workforce, impacting pension sustainability and economic growth.