Why is China facing declining marriage and birth rates, and what initiatives are being taken to address this issue?

China faces declining interest in marriage and family formation primarily due to the high costs of childcare and education. Economic challenges, including sputtering growth in recent years, have created employment difficulties for university graduates, further discouraging young couples from starting families. This situation has contributed to the country's declining population. In response, the government has launched initiatives to encourage young couples to marry and have children, aiming to boost population growth. These efforts represent China's attempt to counter demographic challenges that could affect its economic future.