Japan is preparing to make standard childbirth free under its national health insurance scheme from April 2026, as part of sweeping reforms to combat the country’s steadily declining birth rate. A government panel of experts has urged the health ministry to implement the plan within the next two years, recommending that delivery costs—excluding procedures such as caesarean sections already covered—should be absorbed by the public system. Currently, childbirth is only partially subsidised, with the state offering up to ¥500,000 (£2,581) per birth. However, the panel found that in nearly half of the cases assessed between May 2023 and September 2024, that amount failed to cover the full cost.
++ Conjoined twins separated after complex 15-hour surgery
The average expense of a standard delivery reached ¥518,000 (£2,674) in early 2024—up by nearly 25 per cent since 2012—highlighting a growing burden on families. Costs vary significantly between regions, as hospitals are permitted to set their own fees. To address this disparity, the panel has proposed establishing a uniform national fee. The recommendation is part of broader efforts to create a more family-friendly society and reduce economic obstacles that discourage young couples from having children.
Japan recorded just 720,988 births in 2024—the lowest figure since records began 125 years ago—marking the ninth straight year of decline. The health ministry expressed alarm over the deepening demographic crisis, with nearly a third of Japan’s population now over the age of 65. Despite previous initiatives to reverse the trend, including childcare subsidies and increased nursery provision, the birth rate continues to fall, putting pressure on social services and future workforce stability.
++ Kim Jong-un calls for full war readiness amid North Korea-Russia alliance claims
In response, the Japanese government has launched a number of new schemes, ranging from financial support for young families to creative measures like a state-backed dating app. A comprehensive childcare policy package adopted in 2023 aims to strengthen support for parents and stem the demographic downturn. The proposed introduction of free childbirth is seen as a significant step towards removing financial barriers and encouraging family growth in the years ahead.
