BEIJING, Nov 3 - China has recorded a notable decrease in marriage registrations for the first nine months of 2024, according to data from the Ministry of Civil Affairs. A total of 4.747 million couples registered their marriages, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 943,000.
In comparison, 5.690 million marriage registrations were recorded during the same period in 2023, indicating a shift in societal trends. The decrease is attributed to growing economic uncertainty and rising living costs, prompting many young couples to postpone marriage.
In response to the declining marriage rates, the Chinese government has introduced measures aimed at encouraging marriage and childbirth. A draft law has been revised to simplify marriage registration, while making divorce procedures more stringent.
Data also revealed that 1.967 million divorces were registered in the first three quarters of 2024, a slight decrease of 6,000 from the previous year. The country is facing its second consecutive annual drop in birth rates, leading to initiatives designed to foster a supportive environment for marriage and childbearing.
The topic of marriage and family planning has sparked extensive discussions among young Chinese citizens, many of whom are choosing to remain single or delay marriage due to concerns over job prospects and economic stability. President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of women in establishing a new family culture in the country.