What issue is China facing regarding marriage registrations and why is it concerning?

China is facing a serious issue with declining marriage registrations, which has triggered significant birth rate concerns. This problem has reached alarming levels, with reports indicating a record 20% drop in marriages in 2024. The marriage crisis is directly impacting China's population health and demographic stability. In response, local governments like Luliang in Shanxi Province are implementing cash incentives to encourage couples to marry and start families. These measures aim to combat the country's declining population by addressing financial burdens related to childcare and education that contribute to young people's reluctance to marry and have children.