Vietnam targets natural birth sex ratio by 2035 with crackdown on fetal sex selection

Vietnam is targeting a natural sex ratio at birth, aiming for approximately 106 boys for every 100 girls by 2035. This goal is outlined in a draft plan by the Ministry of Health, which proposes measures to combat fetal sex selection and address deep-seated preferences for sons.

The draft plan sets intermediate targets, seeking to reduce the ratio to below 109 boys per 100 girls by 2030 before reaching the natural level. Vietnam has experienced one of Asia's highest sex ratios at birth for years, peaking at 114.8 boys per 100 girls in 2018, though it had eased to 110 in 2025. Proposed actions include stricter enforcement of laws against fetal sex selection, enhanced inspections of medical facilities, and increased monitoring of online services offering sex selection.

The ministry attributes the imbalance to a persistent preference for sons, pressure to produce male heirs, shrinking family sizes, and easier access to prenatal sex identification technology. The government warns that a continued surplus of men could create long-term demographic and social challenges. These include difficulties in the marriage market, rising gender inequality, increased gender-based violence, trafficking of women and girls, and broader threats to social stability. The plan also calls for public campaigns to challenge traditional son preference.