Overall natural population decrease reached a record high, with deaths exceeding births by about 899,845, underscoring persistent demographic headwinds.

There is ongoing debate over immigration as a countermeasure; the ruling party signals a tightening stance despite calls to open borders to counter demographic decline.

Officials continue to flag concern over Japan’s falling birthrate and are outlining measures to boost young people's incomes and improve work‑family balance.

Experts note aging and depopulation drive labor shortages, higher social security costs, rising debt, and a shrinking tax base, with rural areas hardest hit and nearly four million abandoned homes.

The Liberal Democratic Party, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, won a two-thirds majority in the February snap elections, elevating the political stakes around demographic policy and economic strategy.

The government has labeled the issue a “quiet state of emergency,” with emphasis on boosting births and economic vitality, even as immigration policy remains contentious amid party pressures for stricter controls.

Japan posted a population decline for the 10th straight year in 2025, with births at about 705,809, down 2.1% from 2024, as preliminary health ministry data show.

Marriages rose to 505,656 (up 1.1%), while divorces fell to 182,969; total deaths totaled 1,605,654, down 0.8%.

Analysts say boosting immigration could help ease labor shortages and public finances, while the central government seeks to strengthen the economy to reduce childcare costs and support working families.

Ministry officials stress the severity of the birth decline and the lack of a clear end in sight, treating it as a serious issue.

Tokyo has piloted measures to encourage marriage and childrearing, including a dating app that verifies single status and intent to marry, reflecting local efforts amid broader policy debates.

Officials say reversing the birth trend requires a stronger economy, with Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki underscoring the link between economic strength and family growth.