Key Facts
• December 2: National Governors’ Association requested a strategy meeting on population decline.
• November 19: Tottori Governor Shinji Hirai met Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
• Tokyo’s birth numbers rose 0.3 points (year-on-year) in the first half of 2025.
• Tokyo offers $34 monthly per child and epidural subsidies.
• Hirai criticized Takaichi’s claim of Tokyo’s success in raising birthrates.
• Tottori’s birthrate is 1.43, higher than Tokyo’s sub-1.0 rate.
• Hirai urged the government to ensure accurate data and fair discussions.
Summary
Tottori Governor Shinji Hirai expressed confusion over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks praising Tokyo’s birthrate policies. During a December 2 meeting, Hirai highlighted the need for accurate data and effective strategies to address Japan’s population decline. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike had previously promoted Tokyo’s slight birth number increase (0.3 points year-on-year) as a success. However, Hirai noted Tokyo’s birthrate remains below 1.0, contrasting with Tottori’s 1.43. He attributed Tokyo’s increase to urban migration rather than policy effectiveness. Hirai called for balanced discussions and solutions adaptable to local financial constraints.
