Vietnam Faces Accelerated Super-Aging Society Amid Global Demographic Shifts

Vietnam, a key driver of economic growth in Southeast Asia, is confronting significant demographic shifts. Recent data indicates that the country's aging population is progressing at a faster-than-expected pace, making its transition into a super-aged society imminent. This trend suggests that Vietnam is rapidly approaching the threshold of a super-aged society, defined by the UN as having over 21% of its population aged 65 and older, a status already reached by Singapore, which boasts the highest GDP per capita in Asia. The aging of the baby boomer generation (born between 1946 and 1964) is contributing to a notable increase in the elderly population. The median age of citizens has also been rising, reportedly reaching 44.1 years in 2025. Vietnam's total fertility rate has been on a downward trend, falling to 0.87 in 2025, well below the population replacement level of approximately 2.1. This decline is expected to lead to a future labor shortage and increased social security costs. However, the working-age population (20-64 years) is projected to remain relatively stable between 2030 and 2035, partly due to immigration. Nevertheless, the long-term economic impact of a growing elderly population is unavoidable. Under its one-party system, these demographic changes present urgent challenges for Vietnam, including the sustainability of its social security, healthcare, and pension systems, as well as the need to adapt its economic growth model. Addressing the aging population will be a critical policy issue, particularly in the context of its geopolitical relationship with China and how to distribute the benefits of economic growth equitably among its citizens. Source: VnExpress International