Hai Duong Province - Demography

Demography

• Over the last 20 years, Hai Duong province has been experiencing a big change in its demographics. During this period, the rate of fertility decreases dramatically from a high rate at 6.7% to 2.14% in 2000-2008, the same pattern is found with the rate of mortality. This is a result of the success of the family planning program and the improvement of the health care system of Hai Duong province as well as the innovations in medicine. In addition, life expectancy also increases overtime. These changes in demographics in Hai Duong province take place at a speed that is much more quicker than the world average rate or many other Asian.

• The number of persons aged 60 years or older in Hai Duong province is estimated to be 600.000 in 2010. This number is projected to grow to nearly 800.000 by 2050, at which time it will be as large as the population of children (0–14 years). This historic crossover of an increasing share of older persons and a declining share of children will mark the first time that the number of children and older persons are the same.

• There are many ethnic groups of which the Kinh (majority of Vietnamese) make up 90% of the population. Major religions helping fulfill the spiritual needs of the Vietnamese include Buddhism, Catholic and Protestant churches, Confucianism, Cao Dai and Hoa Hao faiths. With that being said, ancestor worship is probably their predominant “religion,” although they may not realize it.