The General Statistics Office's data reveals that the national population increased by approximately 1 million people compared to 2024. This growth, however, masks a significant shift in the age structure, driven by a declining birth rate and a consistently high life expectancy of 74,7 years. The population aged 0 to 14 years decreased by 0,7 percentage points from the previous year. Conversely, the elderly population, defined as those 60 years and older, expanded by 0,5 percentage points, bringing their total to 14,8 million. This means that, on average, one in 7 Vietnamese people is 60 years or older.

Hanoi elderly cycling by West Lake, 11/2025. *Photo: Hoang Giang*

Geographically, the rural population still constitutes the majority, with 62,9 million people, representing over 61% of the total. The urban population stands at 39,5 million people, accounting for nearly 39%. Despite a decelerating population growth rate, Vietnam remains in a period of "demographic dividend," with the working-age population (15-59 years old) maintaining a proportion of nearly 63%.

The General Statistics Office identifies rapid population aging and a persistent imbalance in the birth sex ratio as significant challenges for the coming years. The total fertility rate in 2025 reached 1,93 children per woman, a slight increase from 1,91 the previous year, yet it continues a long-term downward trend. While the birth sex ratio saw a minor improvement, decreasing from 111,4 to 110 boys per 100 girls, it still presents a considerable disparity compared to the natural equilibrium. Experts forecast that the fertility rate will continue its decline over the next decade, while the mortality rate is expected to remain low, fluctuating around 6‰, meaning 6 deaths per 1.000 people in one year.

To address these demographic shifts, the population sector has designated encouraging couples to have two children as a central focus from 2026. The new Population Law, effective from 7/2026, will grant couples autonomy over the timing, number, and spacing of births, based on their economic conditions and health. Additionally, the Ministry of Health is developing a proposal to prioritize social housing for couples who have two children. This initiative is expected to be incorporated into the Ministry of Construction's existing criteria once the new law is implemented.