FACTORS AFFECTING FERTILITY RATES IN THE SUBURBAN AREA OF HO CHI MINH CITY (A Case Study of Nhi Binh Commune and Hoc Mon Town, Hoc Mon District)

Abstract

(Old) Ho Chi Minh City is one of the localities with the lowest fertility rates in the country, falling significantly short of the essential replacement fertility rate. As the country's economic locomotive, this low fertility rate presents various challenges for the city in terms of population growth and sustainable development. Based on qualitative data gathered from survey conducted in Nhi Binh commune and Hoc Mon town within Hoc Mon district and and secondary sources, the article examines several factors that influence fertility rates in the suburban areas of Ho Chi Minh City. Adopting a bottom-up approach, the article highlights the motivations and considerations that couples when confronted with decisions surrounding childbearing.