South Korea, which held the world’s lowest birth rate for at least eight consecutive years, has officially been surpassed by Taiwan. The fertility rate in South Korea had fallen to a record low of 0.72 in 2023, but a recent report indicates that Taiwan recorded an even lower fertility rate of approximately 0.72 with only 107,812 births in 2025. This shift in global birth rates reflects significant demographic challenges facing both nations.
Taiwan’s decline in birth rates stems from various factors including high housing costs, career pressures on women, and evolving social values that emphasize self-fulfillment and delayed marriage. These issues contribute to a demographic crisis as the country grapples with an aging population, which exacerbates the challenges of a shrinking workforce. The low birth rate poses serious threats to economic stability and social sustainability, creating burdens on the healthcare system and social welfare programs.
The Taiwanese government recognizes the severity of this issue. President Lai Ching-te has classified the low birth rate as a critical national security concern. In response, he has proposed a series of measures aimed at mitigating the crisis. These include expanding childcare subsidies, promoting affordable care options, and potentially allowing foreign caregivers to help alleviate parental responsibilities.
The implications of this demographic trend extend beyond immediate family concerns. Taiwan’s aging community is central to its population problem, leading to a diminished labor force and tax base while simultaneously increasing the demand for eldercare services. The government views the situation as a structural crisis, with the potential to hinder economic growth and stability.
As Taiwan continues to navigate these challenges, the recent shift in global birth rates underscores the urgency of addressing underlying socio-economic factors. The focus now turns to how effectively the nation can implement policies to encourage higher birth rates and support families, ensuring a sustainable future for its society.
