China birth rate hits lowest since 1949 in blow to baby drive

China's birth rate hit its lowest point since 1949, dropping to 5.6 births per 1,000 people, marking a significant demographic challenge for the country. The number of newborns decreased by 1.6 million to 7.9 million, and the total population fell by 3.4 million to 1.405 billion. This decline poses a threat to the economy due to a shrinking workforce and an aging population. Despite government efforts to boost birth rates with subsidies and tax incentives, the birth rate continues to fall, highlighting the complexities of demographic shifts.