Beijing Faces Ageing Population Challenge as One-third Reach 60 by 2035

UA News

One in three Beijing residents to be over 60 by 2035, report says.

Beijing is expected to face a significant demographic shift by 2035, with around one-third of its population projected to be aged 60 or older, highlighting the growing challenge of an ageing population in China.

The projection, reported by Reuters on Monday, citing the official Beijing Daily, points to increasing pressure on healthcare services, pension systems and the city's workforce as the proportion of older residents rises.

China has been grappling with an ageing population and declining birth rates, raising concerns about the long-term impact on economic growth, public finances and the availability of workers.

Beijing's official urban master plan aims to keep the capital's permanent resident population at around 23 million, with the population intended to remain broadly stable after 2020.

The plan also sets a target of limiting the number of permanent residents across the city's six central districts to no more than 10.85 million by 2035.

However, the figure of 23 million is a planning target rather than a confirmed forecast of the city's population in 2035.

The expected rise in the proportion of older residents reflects a broader demographic challenge facing China, where longer life expectancy and persistently low birth rates are reshaping the country's population structure.

The shift is likely to increase demand for healthcare, elderly care and pension support, while potentially putting further pressure on the working-age population.

Beijing's demographic outlook highlights the challenge facing Chinese authorities as they seek to maintain economic growth while adapting public services and social support systems to an ageing society.


PUKMEDIA