New U.S. Census Bureau projections paint a dramatic demographic reshaping of the planet: China’s population is expected to plunge from 1.4 billion to just 662 million by 2100 — the steepest decline ever recorded for a single nation.

Africa, by contrast, is set for explosive growth of roughly 155%. The Democratic Republic of Congo alone is projected to soar from 139 million to 584 million, becoming one of the world’s largest populations.

Regional trends diverge sharply: Asia overall declines by 9%, Europe by 16%, and South America by 12%. North America grows modestly at 4%, driven largely by immigration. India remains the world’s most populous nation at 1.5 billion, while the U.S. is projected to reach 370 million.

Analysts warn that aging populations in shrinking regions will pressure labor forces, pension systems, and military recruitment, while booming African cities will face immense infrastructure and governance challenges.

China is attempting to reverse its downturn with pro-birth incentives and looser immigration rules, but most experts agree its demographic slide is now essentially irreversible.