Japan's population crisis reaches tipping point | FT Film

Demographic Crisis & Economic Impact - Japan faces a demographic tipping point in 2025 as the postwar baby boom generation enters their late 70s, increasing medical and care costs [1][4][5][11] - Japan's population is shrinking by 1.7% every minute, potentially leading to a population decline equivalent to Australia's current population by 2050 [3] - The total fertility rate in Japan is around 1.2%, significantly below the 2.1% needed to maintain a stable population [6] - Stagnant wages for over three decades have led to a surplus of "economically unattractive men," impacting relationship formation and birth rates [19][20] - Government spending on pensions and elderly support has risen to approximately 10% of GDP [32] - The number of patents granted to Japanese researchers has declined, correlating with the decline in the working-age population [33] Potential Solutions & Adaptations - Japan has quietly increased immigration, with projections suggesting foreign nationals could represent about 10% of all residents within 20 years [25][26] - Businesses are adapting to the aging population by focusing on elderly care products and services, such as adult diapers and modified food products [34][35] - The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is experimenting with policies like 4-day workweeks and a marriage app to encourage dating and marriage [22] Global Implications - Japan's experience serves as a warning to other countries facing demographic decline, including China, France, Germany, the UK, and the US [41][42] - Despite economic challenges, Japan has maintained social stability, good health, and a globally competitive economy, offering potential lessons for other nations [8][43]