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Significance

Taiwan's fertility rate is reckoned to be the lowest in the world. In 2020, deaths exceeded births for the first time since records began. The country has reached a turning point: henceforth, its workforce will shrink and its population will age fast. This has profound implications for its economy and society.

Impacts

Demography has direct implications for Taiwan's national security: fewer young people will be available for military training and service.

Taiwan will not face its demographic challenge alone: it can learn and obtain technology from Japan, China and other fast-ageing societies.

South-east Asia provides a nearby source of immigrant labour; this is likely to increase, from a low level by developed-country standards.

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