Hong Kong’s government has distributed over HK$1.4 billion in cash benefits to parents of newborns over the past three years. The scheme was initiated to address the city’s declining birth rate, but figures released show a record low number of births in 2025. Welfare minister Chris Sun provided this information in response to a query from lawmaker Roy Chu. Despite the financial incentives, the birth rate continues to fall, suggesting other factors are at play. The scheme’s effectiveness is now being questioned as the city faces a demographic challenge. Further analysis is needed to understand the reasons behind the continued decline and whether adjustments to the policy are necessary.