Japan parents' desire for second child hits record low

A survey by Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company reveals that the percentage of parents with one child (aged 0 to 6) who desire a second child has fallen to a record low of 28.2%. This figure represents a significant decline from 56.9% in 2020.

Key drivers for this trend include economic instability and rising living costs. Approximately 79.3% of respondents reported feeling a burden regarding child-rearing expenses due to inflation, and the average cost per child has reached a record high of 43,356 yen. Concerns regarding future income were cited by 54.5% of those who either find having a second child difficult or do not wish to have one.

Economists suggest that bridging the gap between rising prices and stagnant incomes is essential to overcoming the “second child barrier.” Experts also emphasize the importance of promoting flexible working environments, such as teleworking and shortened working hours, to improve child-rearing conditions.