Japan's elderly population hits record 29 per cent, world's highest

Japan's population aged 65 and older has reached a record 36.24 million people, representing 29 per cent of the total population, government data shows. This marks the highest proportion of elderly citizens among major nations globally, highlighting the severity of Japan's ageing demographics.

The figure represents an increase of 20,000 from the previous year, continuing a steady upward trend that has accelerated over the past two decades. Japan's rapidly ageing society reflects a combination of persistently low fertility rates and one of the world's highest life expectancies, now exceeding 84 years.

The demographic shift poses significant economic and social challenges for Tokyo. The growing elderly population strains public pension and healthcare systems, while a shrinking working-age population threatens economic productivity and tax revenues. Labour shortages have become increasingly acute in sectors ranging from healthcare to agriculture.

Policymakers have implemented various measures to address the crisis, including gradual increases to the official retirement age and initiatives to encourage immigration and female workforce participation. However, experts warn that without more substantial structural reforms, Japan's fiscal pressures will intensify in coming decades as the proportion of elderly dependents continues to grow relative to working-age adults.