Taiwan’s Demographic Shift: Pets Outnumber Young Children Amid Falling Birthrates

The birthrate in Taiwan has decreased significantly, leading to a demographic shift where the island now has more pets than young children. President Lai Ching-te has highlighted this as a national security concern. Recent analysis by Sinyi Realty in New Taipei City reveals that Taiwan had around 3.2 million pet cats and dogs in 2025. In contrast, the number of children aged 14 and under was only 2.68 million.

This trend is not unique to Taiwan. Globally, two-thirds of the population lives in regions with fertility rates below the 2.1 births per woman needed to sustain population levels without immigration, as reported by the United Nations. The demographic shift worries policymakers because aging populations strain pensions, healthcare systems, and social safety nets while reducing the workforce.

Taiwan shows a stark example of this issue. Last year, it surpassed South Korea, becoming the society with the lowest fertility rate. The total fertility rate dropped to 0.695 from 0.885 in 2024. In the past year, Taiwan reported only about 107,000 births, much lower than in the 1960s.

The Fur Baby Generation

This demographic shift is notable in Taiwan’s counties and municipalities. Out of 22 regions, only seven have slightly more children than pets. New Taipei City exemplifies this trend, hosting about 597,000 dogs and cats, which is 162,000 more than the population aged 14 and under.

The disparity is partly due to New Taipei’s rapid development and migration from Taipei. Executive Vice President Wang Jianwei of Sinyi Realty noted that soaring housing costs, limited living space, and financial burdens are prompting younger Taiwanese to delay having children, opting instead for pets.

Consumer behavior and housing preferences are adapting to accommodate more pet-friendly environments.

National Security Issue

Taiwan’s leaders increasingly view the birthrate decline as a national security issue. In May, President Lai announced family support measures to encourage child-rearing, offering a monthly subsidy of roughly $150 per child under 18.

However, demographers warn that financial incentives alone will not suffice. Structural reforms addressing long working hours and high costs are necessary, a concern mirrored in countries like South Korea, China, and Japan, despite their ongoing pronatalist policies.

Contacted for comments, Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare had no immediate response.