The total fertility rate of the world has dropped from around 5 children per woman in 1950, to 2.2 children per woman in 2025, which means that women today are having fewer than half the number of children that women did 75 years ago. Replacement level fertility This change has come as a result of the global demographic transition, and is influenced by factors such as the significant reduction in infant and child mortality, reduced number of child marriages, increased educational and vocational opportunities for women, and the increased efficacy and availability of contraception. While this change has become synonymous with societal progress, it does have wide-reaching demographic impact - if the global average falls below replacement level (roughly 2.1 children per woman), as is expected to happen in the 2050s, then this will lead to long-term population decline on a global scale. Regional variations When broken down by continent, Africa is the only region with a fertility rate above the global average, and, alongside Oceania, it is the only region with a fertility rate above replacement level. Until the 1980s, the average woman in Africa could expect to have 6-7 children over the course of their lifetime, and there are still several countries in Africa where women can still expect to have 5 or more children in 2025. Historically, Europe has had the lowest fertility rates in the world over the past century, falling below replacement level in 1975. Europe's population has grown through a combination of migration and increasing life expectancy, however even high immigration rates could not prevent its population from going into decline in 2021.

In 2025, there are six countries, all in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the average woman of childbearing age can expect to have between 5-6 children throughout their lifetime. In fact, of the 20 countries in the world with the highest fertility rates, Afghanistan and Yemen are the only countries not found in Sub-Saharan Africa. High fertility rates in Africa With a fertility rate of almost six children per woman, Chad is the country with the highest fertility rate in the world. Population growth in Chad is among the highest in the world. Lack of healthcare access, as well as food instability, political instability, and climate change, are all exacerbating conditions that keep Chad's infant mortality rates high, which is generally the driver behind high fertility rates. This situation is common across much of the continent, and, although there has been considerable progress in recent decades, development in Sub-Saharan Africa is not moving as quickly as it did in other regions. Demographic transition While these countries have the highest fertility rates in the world, their rates are all on a generally downward trajectory due to a phenomenon known as the demographic transition. The third stage (of five) of this transition sees birth rates drop in response to decreased infant and child mortality, as families no longer feel the need to compensate for lost children. Eventually, fertility rates fall below replacement level (approximately 2.1 children per woman), which eventually leads to natural population decline once life expectancy plateaus. In some of the most developed countries today, low fertility rates are creating severe econoic and societal challenges as workforces are shrinking while aging populations are placin a greater burden on both public and personal resources.

Somalia was the African country with the highest fertility rate in 2023. There, each woman had an average of around 6.1 children in her reproductive years. Fertility levels in Africa remain high despite a steady decline The fertility rate in Africa has gradually decreased since 2000 and is projected to decline further in the coming years. Factors including improved socio-economic conditions and educational opportunities, lower infant mortality, and decreasing poverty levels have driven the declining birth rate on the continent. Nevertheless, Africa remains the continent with the highest fertility rate worldwide. As of 2023, women in Africa had an average of 4.07 children in their reproductive years. Africa was the only continent registering a fertility rate higher than the global average, which was set at 2.4 children per woman. Worldwide, the continent also had the highest adolescent fertility rate as of 2022, with West and Central Africa leading with 105 births per 1,000 girls aged 15 to 19 years. Africa’s population keeps growing According to projections, over 46 million births will be registered in Africa in 2023. Contrary to the declining fertility rate, the absolute number of births on the continent will continue to grow in the coming years to reach around 49.4 million by 2030. In general, Africa’s population – amounting to over 1.48 billion inhabitants as of 2023 – is forecast to increase considerably and achieve 2.5 billion in 2050. Countries such as Niger, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea are key drivers of population growth in Africa, registering the highest average population growth rate on the continent between 2020 and 2025. For instance, in that period, Niger’s population was forecast to expand by 3.7 percent each year.

In 2024, the fertility rate in Africa was *** children per woman. The average number of newborn infants per woman on the continent decreased compared to 2000, when women had approximately **** children throughout their reproductive years. By 2030, fertility in Africa is projected to decline to around *** births per woman, yet it will remain high. The highest fertility rate worldwide Despite its gradually declining rate, fertility in Africa is the highest in the world. In 2023, the average fertility rate on the continent stood at **** children per woman, compared to a global average of **** births per woman. In contrast, Europe and North America were the continents with the lowest proportion of newborns, each registering a fertility rate below two children per woman. Additionally, Africa records the highest fertility rate among the young female population aged 15 to 19 years. In 2022, West and Central Africa had an adolescent fertility rate of nearly *** children per 1,000 girls, the highest value worldwide. Lower fertility in Northern Africa Fertility levels vary significantly across Africa. In 2023, Somalia, Chad, Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic were the countries with the highest fertility rates on the continent. In those countries, women had an average of over *** children in their reproductive years. The number of adolescent girls giving birth also differed within Africa. For instance, the adolescent fertility rate in North Africa stood at around **** children per 1,000 young women in 2023. On the other hand, Sub-Saharan Africa registered a higher rate of approximately **** children per 1,000 girls as of the same year. In general, higher poverty levels, inadequate social and health conditions, and increased infant mortality are some main drivers of higher fertility rates.

In 2022, India overtook China as the world's most populous country and now has almost 1.46 billion people. China now has the second-largest population in the world, still with just over 1.4 billion inhabitants, however, its population went into decline in 2023. Global population As of 2025, the world's population stands at almost 8.2 billion people and is expected to reach around 10.3 billion people in the 2080s, when it will then go into decline. Due to improved healthcare, sanitation, and general living conditions, the global population continues to increase; mortality rates (particularly among infants and children) are decreasing and the median age of the world population has steadily increased for decades. As for the average life expectancy in industrial and developing countries, the gap has narrowed significantly since the mid-20th century. Asia is the most populous continent on Earth; 11 of the 20 largest countries are located there. It leads the ranking of the global population by continent by far, reporting four times as many inhabitants as Africa. The Demographic Transition The population explosion over the past two centuries is part of a phenomenon known as the demographic transition. Simply put, this transition results from a drastic reduction in mortality, which then leads to a reduction in fertility, and increase in life expectancy; this interim period where death rates are low and birth rates are high is where this population explosion occurs, and population growth can remain high as the population ages. In today's most-developed countries, the transition generally began with industrialization in the 1800s, and growth has now stabilized as birth and mortality rates have re-balanced. Across less-developed countries, the stage of this transition varies; for example, China is at a later stage than India, which accounts for the change in which country is more populous - understanding the demographic transition can help understand the reason why China's population is now going into decline. The least-developed region is Sub-Saharan Africa, where fertility rates remain close to pre-industrial levels in some countries. As these countries transition, they will undergo significant rates of population growth

Children's and Infant Wear Market Outlook

The global children's and infant wear market size is projected to grow significantly, reaching approximately $250 billion by 2032, up from $150 billion in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5%. This robust growth can be attributed to various factors such as increasing birth rates in developing countries, rising disposable incomes, and the growing influence of social media and e-commerce platforms.

One of the principal growth drivers in the children's and infant wear market is the increasing birth rates in various developing nations, particularly in regions like Asia Pacific and Africa. These areas are witnessing a surge in population, which, in turn, is raising the demand for children's apparel and accessories. Additionally, urbanization and rising standards of living are contributing to the demand for higher-quality and branded children's wear. As parents become more conscious of fashion and quality, there is an increasing willingness to spend more on childrenÂ’s clothing, further propelling the market growth.

Another significant growth factor is the burgeoning influence of social media and online retailing. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are extensively used by parents to share their children's fashion trends and styles, influencing other parents and driving demand. Moreover, the emergence of numerous e-commerce platforms has made it easier for consumers to access a wide variety of children's and infant wear from the comfort of their homes. The convenience, variety, and often better pricing offered by online stores are making them a popular choice among consumers, thereby boosting market growth.

Rising disposable incomes, particularly in developing economies, are also playing a crucial role in the expansion of this market. As families have more disposable income, they are more likely to spend on non-essential goods, including higher-end and designer children's wear. Additionally, consumer preferences are gradually shifting towards branded and premium products, which offer better quality and durability. The increasing focus on child comfort and safety, coupled with the availability of a broader range of stylish clothing options, is encouraging parents to invest more in children's apparel.

The segment of Baby And Toddler Clothing is particularly noteworthy within the children's and infant wear market. This category is driven by the necessity for soft, comfortable, and easy-to-wear garments that cater to the delicate skin and rapid growth of infants and toddlers. Parents are increasingly prioritizing clothing that offers both style and functionality, ensuring that their little ones are dressed in outfits that are not only visually appealing but also practical for everyday wear. The demand for organic and hypoallergenic materials is on the rise, as parents become more conscious of the health and safety of their children. This shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly options is creating new opportunities for brands to innovate and expand their offerings in the Baby And Toddler Clothing segment.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market is expected to witness substantial growth, driven by high birth rates, increasing urbanization, and rising disposable incomes. North America and Europe, while more mature markets, continue to show steady growth, supported by a strong preference for branded and premium products. In contrast, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are expected to grow at a moderate pace due to economic challenges and varying consumer preferences. However, increasing awareness about global fashion trends and improving economic conditions in these regions are expected to create new growth opportunities in the coming years.

Product Type Analysis

The children's and infant wear market is segmented by product type into apparel, footwear, and accessories. Apparel, comprising items such as shirts, pants, dresses, and outerwear, forms the largest segment due to its essential nature. Increasing awareness about children's fashion trends is driving the demand for stylish and comfortable clothing. Additionally, the popularity of gender-neutral clothing is expanding the product range, thereby boosting market growth. Seasonal apparel collections and collaborations with popular children's characters and franchises are also attracting consumers, further propelling this segment.

Niger had the highest birth rate in the world in 2024, with a birth rate of 46.6 births per 1,000 inhabitants. Angola, Benin, Mali, and Uganda followed. Except for Afghanistan, all 20 countries with the highest birth rates in the world were located in Sub-Saharan Africa. High infant mortality The reasons behind the high birth rates in many Sub-Saharan African countries are manyfold, but a major reason is that infant mortality remains high on the continent, despite decreasing steadily over the past decades, resulting in high birth rates to counter death rates. Moreover, many nations in Sub-Saharan Africa are highly reliant on small-scale farming, meaning that more hands are of importance. Additionally, polygamy is not uncommon in the region, and having many children is often seen as a symbol of status. Fastest-growing populations As the high fertility rates coincide with decreasing death rates, countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have the highest population growth rates in the world. As a result, Africa's population is forecast to increase from 1.4 billion in 2022 to over 3.9 billion by 2100.

The global newborn care products market, valued at $86.14 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by several key factors. Rising birth rates in developing economies, coupled with increasing disposable incomes and a growing awareness of hygiene and infant health, are significantly contributing to market expansion. The preference for premium and specialized products, such as organic and hypoallergenic options, is also fueling market growth. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of e-commerce platforms for purchasing baby products enhances market accessibility and convenience. Segmentation reveals a substantial demand across all application stages (0-6 months, 6-12 months, and 12-24 months), with diapers dominating the product type segment. However, the growth of the skin care and food for newborns segments reflects a shift toward comprehensive care solutions. Competitive landscape analysis indicates a mix of established multinational corporations and regional players. Major players like Johnson & Johnson, Procter & Gamble, and Kimberly-Clark are leveraging brand recognition and extensive distribution networks to maintain market share. Conversely, smaller, niche players are focusing on innovation and specialized products to carve out a place in this competitive market. The market's CAGR of 3.2% suggests a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion trajectory over the forecast period (2025-2033). Geographical analysis points toward North America and Asia Pacific as dominant regions, reflecting high birth rates and strong consumer spending. However, growth opportunities exist in emerging markets in Africa and South America as rising middle classes increase demand for better quality baby products. While the market faces potential restraints like fluctuating raw material prices and intense competition, the overall outlook remains positive. Sustained technological advancements, the introduction of innovative products, and the increasing emphasis on child health are expected to propel market growth in the coming years. Successful market players will need to adapt to evolving consumer preferences, incorporate sustainable practices, and leverage digital marketing strategies to effectively target their customer base.

The global daily necessities market for infants and toddlers is anticipated to reach a valuation of XX million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of XX% over the forecast period (2025-2033). Increasing birth rates, rising disposable incomes, and growing awareness about infant and toddler well-being are key factors driving market growth. Moreover, the increasing number of working parents and the convenience offered by online shopping channels further contribute to the market expansion. Among the different segments of the market, household applications dominate due to the extensive use of daily necessities like diapers, wipes, and feeding supplies within the home environment. The 0~3 Months Baby Supplies segment holds a significant share of the market, as newborns require specialized care and a wide range of essential items. Major players in the market include Procter & Gamble, Kimberly-Clark, Johnson & Johnson, Unilever, Philips, Mattel, Hasbro, Lego, and Disney. Regional analysis reveals that North America and Asia Pacific are dominant markets, while emerging regions such as Africa and South America are expected to witness significant growth potential over the forecast period. Market Size: $150 billion (2022) Growth Rate: 4.5% CAGR (2022-2027)

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) baby food industry is poised for substantial growth, with a market size valued at XX million in 2025 and projected to reach over XX million by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 6.48% during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to several key drivers, including rising birth rates, increasing disposable income, and growing awareness about the importance of early nutrition. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of nuclear families and dual-income households have led to a greater demand for convenient and nutritious baby food options. The industry landscape is characterized by a competitive environment, with major players such as Nestlé SA, Orchard Baby Food, Tiger Brands, and Abbott Laboratories holding significant market shares. Regional markets such as Saudi Arabia and South Africa are expected to witness robust growth due to the presence of a large consumer base and government initiatives promoting child health and nutrition Recent developments include: June 2022: Australian infant nutrition startup Sprout Organic partnered with the world's largest e-commerce platform, Amazon, and launched its plant-based baby formula. Sprout's launched its organic baby food in the Middle East at the Saudi Food Expo., March 2022: Le Lionceau, a Dakar-based company specializing in producing and marketing for children aged six months to 36 months, launched its products in Senegal. The company claims that its products are highly nutritional and are made from locally produced fruits, vegetables, cereals, and ingredients., September 2021: Kylie Jenner launched "Kylie Baby" in Africa and worldwide. The product is available on the Takealot website in Africa.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Popularity of Single-Origin Coffee, Product Differentiation and Marketing Strategies. Potential restraints include: Presence of Substitutes Hampering Market Growth. Notable trends are: Increasing Infant Population Driving the Baby Food Market in the Region.

The global talc-based baby powder market is a mature yet dynamic sector, exhibiting steady growth driven by established consumer preferences and brand loyalty. While facing challenges from increased health concerns and the rise of alternative products, the market maintains a significant presence, particularly in developing economies where affordability remains a key factor. Let's assume a 2025 market size of $2.5 billion (this is an estimation based on the common size of mature consumer goods markets), with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2% projected from 2025 to 2033. This modest growth reflects a market grappling with shifting consumer behavior and regulatory scrutiny. The premium segment, while smaller in volume, contributes significantly to overall market value due to higher price points. Online sales channels are experiencing faster growth than offline retail, indicating a gradual shift in consumer purchasing habits. Key players like Johnson & Johnson, Beiersdorf, and Pfizer (Desitin) continue to hold substantial market share through established brand recognition and extensive distribution networks. However, increased competition from companies offering alternative, cornstarch-based powders is putting pressure on market leaders to innovate and adapt. The geographic distribution of the market sees strong performance in North America and Asia Pacific, driven by established consumer bases and significant population sizes. However, growth opportunities exist within emerging markets in regions like Africa and South America, where increasing disposable incomes and rising birth rates offer potential for expansion. The regulatory landscape, particularly concerning potential health risks associated with talc, represents a significant restraint on market growth. Companies are actively responding by reformulating products, investing in research and development, and strengthening their communication strategies around product safety. Continued monitoring of regulatory changes and consumer sentiment will be critical for the success of players in this market. Successful companies will need to balance affordability with safety concerns and leverage both traditional and digital channels to reach their target audiences.

The global baby food and drink market is a lucrative industry with a market size of XXX million in 2025 and a projected CAGR of XX% over the forecast period of 2025-2033. The market is primarily driven by the rising birth rates, increasing disposable income, and the growing awareness of the importance of infant nutrition. Additionally, the convenience of ready-to-use baby food and the wide availability of different flavors and textures have further fueled the market growth. Key trends in the market include the increasing demand for organic and natural baby food, the rise of premiumization, and the growing popularity of fortified and specialized products. The segments of the market based on application include infant formula, baby food, and baby drinks, with infant formula accounting for the largest share. In terms of product type, the market is segmented into dry baby food, wet baby food, and ready-to-use baby food. The major companies operating in the global baby food and drink market include Mead Johnson, Nestle, Danone, and FrieslandCampina, among others. The market is geographically segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America.

Baby Clothing Market Outlook

The global baby clothing market size is expected to expand significantly, from USD 50 billion in 2023 to an estimated USD 75 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5%. The robust growth of the baby clothing market can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing birth rates in certain regions, rising disposable incomes, and a growing awareness of child safety and comfort in clothing. These factors are propelling demand and encouraging innovation in the market.

One of the primary growth drivers in the baby clothing market is the increasing birth rate in developing economies. Countries in the Asia Pacific and Africa are witnessing a surge in population growth, leading to a heightened demand for baby clothing. Additionally, the rising trend of nuclear families in urban areas is contributing to higher spending on baby products, including clothing. Parents are more willing to invest in premium baby clothing, which promises better quality, comfort, and safety for their children.

Moreover, the rise in disposable income globally is another significant factor fueling the market's growth. As household incomes increase, parents are more inclined to spend on high-quality baby clothing. The trend is particularly noticeable in emerging markets where economic growth is rapid, and the middle-class population is expanding. The willingness to spend more on baby's clothing is also influenced by the increasing number of working mothers, who prefer convenient and comfortable clothing options for their children.

Additionally, the burgeoning awareness regarding the safety and comfort of baby clothing is driving innovation and demand in this market. Parents are becoming more conscious of the materials used in baby clothing, preferring organic and non-toxic fabrics to ensure their child's safety. This trend has led to an increase in the demand for organic cotton and other eco-friendly materials in baby clothing. Manufacturers are responding by producing more sustainable and safe clothing options, which in turn is boosting the market.

When examining the regional outlook, it is evident that the Asia Pacific region is expected to be the largest market for baby clothing by 2032. This region's growth is driven by its enormous population base and increasing birth rates. Moreover, rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyles in countries like China and India are expected to further boost the demand. North America and Europe are also significant markets due to their high disposable incomes and strong preference for premium quality baby products. Conversely, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are anticipated to witness moderate growth owing to economic conditions and market maturity.

Product Type Analysis

The baby clothing market is segmented by product type into bodysuits, rompers, sleepwear, outerwear, and others. Bodysuits constitute a significant portion of the market due to their versatility and convenience. These one-piece suits are highly popular among parents because they offer ease of use and comfort for babies. Additionally, bodysuits are often made from soft, breathable materials like cotton, making them suitable for a variety of climates. The increasing preference for practical and comfortable clothing options for newborns and infants is expected to drive the demand for bodysuits even further.

Rompers are another essential segment within the baby clothing market. These outfits are particularly favored for their ease of movement and stylish designs. Rompers are highly versatile and can be worn for various occasions, from casual outings to family gatherings. The growing trend of fashion-forward baby clothing has seen a rise in the popularity of rompers. Parents are increasingly looking for trendy yet comfortable clothing options, making rompers a preferred choice. Additionally, the availability of a wide range of designs and price points also contributes to the segment's growth.

Sleepwear forms a crucial segment in the baby clothing market, driven by the need for comfortable and safe clothing for babies during sleep. Parents prioritize sleepwear that ensures their baby's comfort and safety throughout the night. This includes features like soft fabrics, secure fastenings, and designs that allow for easy diaper changes. The growing awareness about the importance of a good night's sleep for a baby's development is propelling the demand for high-quality sleepwear. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on designing slee

As of 2023, the total population of Africa was over 1.48 billion. The number of inhabitants on the continent increased annually from 2000 onwards. In comparison, the total population was around 831 million in 2000. According to forecasts, Africa will experience impressive population growth in the coming years and will close the gap with the Asian population by 2100. Over 200 million people in Nigeria Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa. In 2025, the country’s population exceeded 237 million people. Ethiopia followed with a population of around 135 million, while Egypt ranked third, accounting for approximately 118 million individuals. Other leading African countries in terms of population were the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, South Africa, and Kenya. Additionally, Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Chad recorded the highest population growth rate on the continent in 2023, with the number of residents rising by over 3.08 percent compared to the previous year. On the other hand, the populations of Tunisia and Eswatini registered a growth rate below 0.85 percent, while for Mauritius and Seychelles, it was negative. Drivers for population growth Several factors have driven Africa’s population growth. For instance, the annual number of births on the continent has risen constantly over the years, jumping from nearly 32 million in 2000 to almost 46 million in 2023. Moreover, despite the constant decline in the number of births per woman, the continent’s fertility rate has remained considerably above the global average. Each woman in Africa had an average of over four children throughout her reproductive years as of 2023, compared to a world rate of around two births per woman. At the same time, improved health and living conditions contributed to decreasing mortality rate and increasing life expectancy in recent years, driving population growth.

According to the forecast, Africa's total population would reach nearly 2.5 billion by 2050. In 2025, the continent had around 1.55 billion inhabitants, with Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Egypt as the most populous countries. In the coming years, Africa will experience significant population growth and will close the gap significantly with the Asian population by 2100. Rapid population growth In Africa, the annual growth rate of the population followed an overall increasing trend up to 2013, reaching nearly 2.63 percent. This was followed by a drop to 2.32 percent by 2023. Although population growth was slowing down, it was still growing faster than in all other regions. The reasons behind this rapid growth are various. One factor is the high fertility rate registered in African countries. In 2023, a woman in Somalia, Chad, Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Central African Republic had an average of over six children in her reproductive years, the highest rate on the continent. High fertility resulted in a large young population and partly compensated for the high mortality rate in Africa, leading to fast-paced population growth. High poverty levels Africa’s population is concerned with widespread poverty. In 2025, over 438 million people on the continent are extremely poor and live with less than 2.15 U.S. dollars per day. Globally, Africa is the continent hosting the highest poverty rate. In 2025, the countries of Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo account for over 23 percent of the world's population living in extreme poverty. Nevertheless, the share of the population living in poverty in Africa is forecast to decrease in the coming years.

The world's population first reached one billion people in 1805, and reached eight billion in 2022, and will peak at almost 10.2 billion by the end of the century. Although it took thousands of years to reach one billion people, it did so at the beginning of a phenomenon known as the demographic transition; from this point onwards, population growth has skyrocketed, and since the 1960s the population has increased by one billion people every 12 to 15 years. The demographic transition sees a sharp drop in mortality due to factors such as vaccination, sanitation, and improved food supply; the population boom that follows is due to increased survival rates among children and higher life expectancy among the general population; and fertility then drops in response to this population growth. Regional differences The demographic transition is a global phenomenon, but it has taken place at different times across the world. The industrialized countries of Europe and North America were the first to go through this process, followed by some states in the Western Pacific. Latin America's population then began growing at the turn of the 20th century, but the most significant period of global population growth occurred as Asia progressed in the late-1900s. As of the early 21st century, almost two-thirds of the world's population lives in Asia, although this is set to change significantly in the coming decades. Future growth The growth of Africa's population, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, will have the largest impact on global demographics in this century. From 2000 to 2100, it is expected that Africa's population will have increased by a factor of almost five. It overtook Europe in size in the late 1990s, and overtook the Americas a few years later. In contrast to Africa, Europe's population is now in decline, as birth rates are consistently below death rates in many countries, especially in the south and east, resulting in natural population decline. Similarly, the population of the Americas and Asia are expected to go into decline in the second half of this century, and only Oceania's population will still be growing alongside Africa. By 2100, the world's population will have over three billion more than today, with the vast majority of this concentrated in Africa. Demographers predict that climate change is exacerbating many of the challenges that currently hinder progress in Africa, such as political and food instability; if Africa's transition is prolonged, then it may result in further population growth that would place a strain on the region's resources, however, curbing this growth earlier would alleviate some of the pressure created by climate change.

In 2023, it is estimated that the BRICS countries have a combined population of 3.25 billion people, which is over 40 percent of the world population. The majority of these people live in either China or India, which have a population of more than 1.4 billion people each, while the other three countries have a combined population of just under 420 million. Comparisons Although the BRICS countries are considered the five foremost emerging economies, they are all at various stages of the demographic transition and have different levels of population development. For all of modern history, China has had the world's largest population, but rapidly dropping fertility and birth rates in recent decades mean that its population growth has slowed. In contrast, India's population growth remains much higher, and it is expected to overtake China in the next few years to become the world's most populous country. The fastest growing population in the BRICS bloc, however, is that of South Africa, which is at the earliest stage of demographic development. Russia, is the only BRICS country whose population is currently in decline, and it has been experiencing a consistent natural decline for most of the past three decades. Growing populations = growing opportunities Between 2000 and 2026, the populations of the BRICS countries is expected to grow by 625 million people, and the majority of this will be in India and China. As the economies of these two countries grow, so too do living standards and disposable income; this has resulted in the world's two most populous countries emerging as two of the most profitable markets in the world. China, sometimes called the "world's factory" has seen a rapid growth in its middle class, increased potential of its low-tier market, and its manufacturing sector is now transitioning to the production of more technologically advanced and high-end goods to meet its domestic demand.