A leading Japanese diaper manufacturer, Oji Holdings, has announced plans to stop domestic production of infant diapers and instead focus on meeting the growing demand for adult diapers.
This decision comes as Japan grapples with a demographic crisis driven by an ageing population and plummeting birth rates.
According to Oji Holdings, the production of infant diapers has been steadily declining since its peak in 2001, dropping from approximately 700 million annually to 400 million today.
The company attributes this decline to factors such as the falling birthrate, which has reached historic lows, with more than twice as many deaths as new births reported in 2023.
In a statement quoted by Japan Times, Oji Holdings indicated that it would discontinue domestic output of infant diapers by September, citing the diminishing demand for baby diapers.
However, the company plans to maintain and expand its production and sales of baby diapers overseas, particularly in regions such as Indonesia and Malaysia, where demand is expected to grow.
Meanwhile, the adult diaper market in Japan has been experiencing significant growth, driven by the country’s ageing population. With almost 30% of Japan’s population aged 65 or older and the proportion of those aged above 80 surpassing 10% for the first time, the demand for adult diapers has soared.
Oji Holdings stated that it would ramp up production of sanitary items for adults, anticipating increased usage in facilities such as nursing homes.
The shift in focus from infant to adult diapers reflects broader demographic trends in Japan and other countries facing similar challenges.
Fertility rates have been declining not only in Japan but also in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and South Korea.
This demographic shift has led to concerns about labor shortages and the sustainability of social welfare systems.
In response to the declining birthrate, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has pledged to implement policies aimed at boosting fertility rates, including financial aid for families, improved access to childcare, and expanded parental leave.
However, experts note that addressing the complex factors contributing to declining birth rates will require sustained efforts and comprehensive strategies.
