Taiwan's population declined for the 23rd straight month in November, with almost twice as many deaths as births—putting it on track to match the previously reported record low.

Newsweek contacted Taiwan's Ministry of National Health for comment by email outside office hours.

Why It Matters

Birth rates are falling across many high- and middle-income countries as younger generations delay or opt out of having children amid rising living costs and changing attitudes toward family life. The trend has alarmed pol i cymakers over the long-term economic effects of an aging, shrinking workforce and growing pressure on social safety nets.

Taiwan now ranks among the world's lowest in fertility, with just 0.89 children expected per woman.

What To Know

Taiwan's population declined by 9

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