Thailand Records Fewest Births in 75 Years as Population Declines

Thailand registered only 416,574 births in 2025, its lowest annual total since 1950, while deaths reached 559,684. The imbalance caused the national population to shrink for a fifth consecutive year, with the gap between births and deaths exceeding 140,000. Thailand’s fertility rate has fallen to roughly one child per woman, placing it among countries with the world’s lowest birth rates. Researchers say many younger adults still want families but are discouraged by debt, high living costs, limited childcare and inflexible employment. The government is preparing measures involving fertility treatment, family-friendly workplaces and childcare support as concerns grow over future labour shortages and pressure on the welfare system.