China's Fertility Rate Hits Record Low, Alarming State Media

China's fertility rate has dropped to a record low of 1.09 in 2022, according to the National Business Daily. This figure, the lowest among countries with a population of over 100 million, is concerning for Chinese authorities who are trying to address the country's declining birth rate. In response to the first population drop in six decades and the rapid aging population, China is implementing various measures to boost the birth rate, including financial incentives and improved childcare facilities. High childcare costs and gender discrimination are among the factors deterring women from having more children.