Core Viewpoint - Vietnam has officially abolished its long-standing family planning policy, allowing couples to decide on the number and timing of their children, marking a significant shift in demographic policy aimed at addressing declining birth rates and an aging population [4][5][6]. Group 1: Demographic Changes - The revision of the population ordinance signifies the end of a 37-year family planning policy in Vietnam, which previously limited families to one or two children [4][5]. - Vietnam's total fertility rate is currently 1.91 children per woman, below the replacement level, with urban areas like Ho Chi Minh City reporting even lower rates of 1.3 [5][10]. - The country is experiencing a demographic transition from concerns about overpopulation in the late 20th century to fears of an aging population and labor shortages today [7][19]. Group 2: Economic Implications - Vietnam's population is projected to peak at 107 million by 2051, after which a decline is expected if birth rates do not significantly increase [50]. - The country is currently in a demographic window where it can leverage its large population for economic growth, particularly in labor-intensive industries [45][52]. - The agricultural sector, particularly rice production, is well-positioned to support the population due to favorable natural conditions, with rice exports expected to reach 8.2 million tons in 2023, generating $4.8 billion in foreign exchange [36][35]. Group 3: Future Challenges - As Vietnam transitions to an aging society, the proportion of the population aged 65 and older is around 10%, and this is expected to increase, leading to potential economic burdens related to healthcare and pensions [19][52]. - The country faces a critical period to convert its demographic advantage into economic benefits before the population dividend diminishes [53]. - The shift in societal attitudes towards family size and child-rearing, influenced by modernization and economic factors, poses challenges to reversing declining birth rates [16][43].