A Japanese diaper company, Oji Holdings, has made the decision to cease production of baby diapers in Japan and shift its focus to the adult diaper market. This move comes as Japan faces a record low birth rate and an increasingly aging population. Sales of adult diapers have outpaced those for infants in Japan for over a decade, reflecting the shifting demographics in the country.
In 2023, the number of babies born in Japan dropped by 5.1% to 758,631, marking the lowest birth rate since the 19th century. Oji Holdings’ subsidiary, Oji Nepia, currently produces 400 million infant diapers annually, down from its peak of 700 million in 2001. This shift in production aligns with the growing demand for adult diapers in a country where nearly 30% of the population is aged 65 or older.
The adult diaper market in Japan is estimated to be worth over $2 billion, highlighting the significant demand for these products. Despite efforts by the Japanese government to address the declining birth rate through various incentives and programs, the challenges persist. Factors contributing to the lower birth rate include declining marriage rates, more women entering the workforce, and the rising costs of raising children.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has emphasized the urgent need for Japan to address its demographic challenges, stating that the country is at a critical juncture. Similar trends of declining birth rates are observed in other Asian countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea. China has also experienced a decline in its population due to the repercussions of its one-child policy, which was in place for decades.
The decision by Oji Holdings to focus on the adult diaper market in Japan reflects the larger societal shifts occurring in the country and underscores the need for innovative solutions to address the challenges posed by an aging population and declining birth rates.
Read More Business-news/” target=”_blank”>Business News
