China's old-age dependency ratio overtakes children for first time

· Economy · China

China's old-age dependency ratio overtook its child dependency ratio for the first time, according to the latest figures, a major demographic milestone for the world's second-largest economy. The country's population fell for a fourth straight year in 2025, with its birth rate dropping to a record low. The shift means fewer working-age people support more retirees, putting pressure on pensions, healthcare and growth prospects. Dairies and other consumer businesses are already adapting their products for older consumers.

Why it matters：China is ageing before it becomes rich, and its shrinking workforce will weigh on global demand, supply chains and pension systems for decades.

Key points

  • China's population fell for a fourth consecutive year in 2025.
  • The birth rate hit a record low.
  • The old-age dependency ratio exceeded the child ratio for the first time.

Sources (original reporting)

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