China’s marriages drop to decade low, deepening demographic concerns

HONG KONG: Marriage registrations in China fell to a decade low in the first quarter of 2026, dropping 6.2 per cent year-on-year and highlighting deepening demographic challenges in the world’s second-largest economy, official data showed.

According to data released by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, China recorded 1.697 million marriage registrations during the January–March period, nearly half the level seen in 2017.

The decline underscores mounting concerns over the country’s shrinking and ageing population, with demographers warning of long-term economic and social pressures.

China’s population declined for a fourth consecutive year in 2025, while its birth rate fell to a record low, reflecting persistent reluctance among young couples to marry and have children amid rising living costs and economic uncertainty.

In China, childbirth has traditionally been closely linked to marriage, both due to cultural norms and administrative rules in some regions that tie access to benefits and birth registration to a marriage certificate.

The government has introduced a series of measures aimed at reversing the trend, including family subsidies, expanded childcare support and efforts to reduce medical costs associated with childbirth.

Despite these steps, marriage rates continue to slide, adding pressure on policymakers already grappling with a rapidly ageing population and slowing economic growth.