Financial news outlet Yicai reports a surge in newborns across China in the Year of the Dragon, potentially alleviating population decline concerns in 2024. The auspicious nature of the Dragon zodiac sign is believed to contribute to this increase, with hospitals noting significant rises in births during the Chinese New Year period. For instance, a hospital in Wuxi observed a 20% rise compared to last year, while one in Shaanxi saw a 72% increase over 2023. Policymakers are concerned about declining birth rates amid an aging population, prompting calls for fostering a culture supportive of marriage and childbearing. However, factors such as economic uncertainty, high childcare costs, and gender discrimination continue to influence individuals’ decisions to delay marriage and parenthood, potentially limiting the sustainability of the current baby boom.