In an effort to counteract Japan’s rapidly declining birth rate, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government plans to launch a dating app as early as this summer.
Japan faces significant demographic challenges, with more deaths than births and a fertility rate of just 1.2. If current trends continue, the country’s population could drastically decrease by 2060.
This unique initiative aims to encourage marriage and family formation among the city’s residents, in response to the country’s shrinking population.
The app will require users to submit documentation proving they are legally single. Additionally, users must sign a letter affirming their willingness to get married.
Unlike typical dating apps, Tokyo’s app will go a step further by requiring a tax certificate slip to verify users’ annual salaries.
While government-sponsored matchmaking events are common in Japan, this dating app represents a more direct approach to addressing the birth rate decline.
Last year, Japan saw more than twice as many deaths as newborns.
Births declined for the eighth consecutive year to 758,631, a 5.1% decrease, according to preliminary government figures. The death toll stood at 1,590,503.
The country is experiencing rising labour shortages, and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has pledged initiatives such as financial assistance for families, improved access to child care, and more parental leave.
Japan: Dating apps to be launched in an attempt to boost fertility rates
