Japan’s shrinking population has reached a critical juncture, prompting Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to label the demographic shift a “national crisis that is quietly progressing” during a speech in parliament.
New Ministry Data Reveals 2.5 Percent Population Drop
Data released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs shows the country’s population fell by 2.5 percent between 2020 and 2025, according to reporting by the Japan Times. The decline is even steeper when measuring only citizens with Japanese nationality, as the number of foreign residents in the country continues to rise. At the close of last year, the total population stood at 122.9 million people.
Rapid Aging Reaches New Milestone Among Centenarians
Japan remains one of the most aging societies globally. Ministry figures from last month recorded more than 100,000 residents aged 100 or older for the first time. Prime Minister Takaichi pledged to deliver a comprehensive strategy to combat the demographic contraction before the end of this year.
Parliamentary Address Highlights Regional Relations
Alongside domestic demographic challenges, Prime Minister Takaichi used her parliamentary opening address to touch on foreign policy. She specifically addressed relations with Beijing, characterizing China as an “important neighbor” amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Japan’s Demographic Crisis
How much has Japan’s population declined recently?
Data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs shows a 2.5 percent drop in the total population between 2020 and 2025.
What is the current total population of Japan?
Official records from the end of last year show the total population stood at 122.9 million people.
When will the government announce new measures to address the population drop?
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pledged to present a formal strategy to tackle the demographic contraction before the end of this year.
Related reading