Population Growth Trends in Japan from 1990 to 2023

Japan's population growth has consistently declined over the past three decades. Growth rates were positive but marginal at 0.3% in 1990 and gradually tapered to 0.0% by the mid-2000s. This decline is attributed to Japan's aging population, low fertility rates, and limited immigration policies. Negative growth began in 2011 (-0.2%), compounded by the aftermath of the Tōhoku earthquake and a declining working-age population.

In recent years, the population contraction has intensified, with rates reaching -0.5% in 2021 and 2023, despite government initiatives to encourage higher birth rates and immigration. Japan's demographic trends remain a critical economic challenge, highlighting the urgency for policy innovation.