Preliminary data from Japan's health ministry shows that 705,809 babies were born in 2025, marking the lowest level since records began in 1899. This represents a 2.1% decline from the previous year, extending the drop for the 10th consecutive year. Despite government efforts to reverse the trend, the number is approaching 700,000 sooner than projected in a 2023 forecast.
The number of births in Japan dropped to 705,809 in 2025, a decrease of 15,179 or 2.1% from 720,988 the year before. This figure includes babies born to foreign nationals and represents the lowest since comparable records started in 1899, according to preliminary data released by the health ministry on Thursday.
The decline marks the 10th year in a row, highlighting ongoing demographic challenges. Government initiatives aimed at boosting the birth rate have yet to stem the fall. A 2023 projection by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research anticipated the annual births nearing 700,000 in about 15 years, but the milestone has arrived earlier than expected.
This trend underscores pressures on Japan's aging society, potentially exacerbating labor shortages. While policies focus on financial support and better childcare, their impact remains unclear based on current data.