Fertility rates across the globe, and specifically in Hong Kong, keep dropping. The World Fertility Report 2024 released by the United Nations last month confirms that last year’s global rates stood at 2.2 births per woman — down from about 3.3 in 1990. The study included the 237 countries and areas recognised by the UN. Hong Kong is among the seven countries and areas that had one child or less on average, along with Macau, South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore.
Falling rates in Hong Kong and Asia
Macau’s fertility rates were the lowest in the world in 2024 with 0.68 births among women in the 15-49 age group, followed closely by Hong Kong and South Korea, both with rates of 0.73 births. For Hong Kong, that means a decline from 1.37 in 1994, although the UN projects an increase for the SAR in 2054, estimating 0.99 births per woman for that year. Additionally, seven out of the 10 places with the lowest fertility rates are in Asia.
Lack of financial resources and daycare facilities and a shortage of affordable real estate in Hong Kong contribute to a couple’s decision to remain childless. Short parental leave is another major determining factor. Hong Kong’s paid leave is stipulated at 14 weeks with mothers earning four-fifths of their regular salary, while fathers only get five days off per newborn.
Ukraine is the only European country with a fertility rate of less than 1, just below China — most likely due to the country’s current wartime situation. While Japan has the world’s longest life expectancy, the island nation’s fertility rates at 1.22 surpassed that of Hong Kong’s. The report also noted that fertility levels of less than 2 births per woman are becoming the global norm, which is seen even in the world’s most populous countries like India, China, the US, Brazil, and Russia. This is of concern as the world’s population will decline if the total fertility rate equals or falls below 2.1.
What is Hong Kong doing to improve the situation?
The Hong Kong government has taken some steps to reverse falling birth rates in the city and promote childbirth among its residents. This includes giving parents a newborn baby bonus of HK$20,000, a move that came into effect in 2023. Another measure was giving parents easier access to subsidised housing and tax incentives. However, experts have reiterated that these measures may not be enough to boost Hong Kong’s childbirth rates and more needs to be done to address the problem, as it may eventually may affect the city’s workforce.
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