China to Experience Largest Population Decline in History, Projected to Reach 662 Million by 2100

The world's population will look dramatically different by 2100, with Africa becoming much younger while East Asia and Europe age rapidly. New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows China heading toward the largest population decline in recorded history, potentially reshaping global power dynamics.

According to the latest international population projections released last week, Africa will become the world's demographic center of gravity. The continent's population will more than double between 2030 and 2100, creating what researchers call a "radical reshaping" of global demographics.

Here's how the numbers break down: Africa's population is expected to surge by 155% over the next 75 years. Meanwhile, Asia will see a 9% decline, Europe will shrink by 16%, and South America will contract by 12%. North America will grow just 4%, mainly due to immigration rather than births.

The shifts will be most dramatic in specific countries. The Democratic Republic of Congo will see its population explode from 139 million in 2030 to 584 million by 2100 - the largest increase anywhere on Earth. Nigeria will add 283 million people during the same period. Tanzania, Ethiopia, Uganda, Angola, and Niger are each expected to gain around 100 million residents.

On the flip side, China faces an unprecedented demographic collapse. Its population will plummet from 1.4 billion to just 662 million - the biggest decline any country has ever experienced in recorded demographic history. This massive shift stems from decades of low birth rates and an aging population.

For global markets and investors, these changes signal major economic opportunities and challenges ahead. African nations are positioned to become some of the world's fastest-growing economies as their young populations enter the workforce. But this growth could also create humanitarian crises if infrastructure and job creation can't keep pace.

The demographic reversal will fundamentally alter labor markets worldwide. Countries facing population declines will struggle with worker shortages and supporting aging populations, while Africa's youth boom could drive innovation and economic expansion - or instability if not managed well.

This isn't just about numbers. The shift could flip the current geopolitical order upside down as economic and political power moves toward younger, growing populations in Africa and away from the aging powerhouses of today.