Japan Records Sharpest Population Decline

In Japan, population data released on Monday showed declining trend for 14th straight year. As per the data of Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications Japan’s population is down by around nine lakh from the previous year which is the largest drop ever recorded. It said that total population of the country, stood at around 12 crore 30 lakh as of 1st October, 2024.  

As per the data, among Japan’s 47 prefectures, 45 experienced population declines, with only Tokyo and Saitama showing increases. It said, people aged 75 and over rose to around 17 per cent of the total population. The working-age population (ages



15-64) dropped to 59.6 per cent of the total population, remaining below 60 per cent since 2018. Reflecting the population shrinkage, labour shortages are becoming more severe in the country.

In contrast, the number of foreign residents has surged. Their population grew by over three lakh 50 thousand year-on-year to a record over 35 lakh.

Earlier last week, the National Police Agency of Japan released new data revealing that a total of over 76 thousand people died alone in their homes in Japan last year, with more than 76 per cent aged 65 or older.