China turns to AI and IVF tech as falling birth rates raise alarm

A Chinese biotechnology company is stepping up efforts to combine artificial intelligence (AI) with advanced genetic testing in a bid to improve the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF), while also tapping into growing demand for fertility services. 

The move comes as China faces a deepening birth rate crisis. The firm, BGI Genomics, says it is developing AI-powered chromosome screening tools designed to make IVF treatments faster, more accurate, and more efficient.

The technology focuses on analyzing embryos before they are implanted, helping doctors select those with the best chances of developing into a healthy pregnancy.

In simple terms, the system uses AI technology to scan embryos for chromosome abnormalities.

Humans typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, and any imbalance such as missing or extra chromosomes, can lead to failed IVF attempts, miscarriage, or genetic conditions. Traditionally, this kind of testing, known as preimplantation genetic testing, requires skilled specialists and can take time to interpret. By automating much of the analysis, AI can deliver quicker and more consistent results.

According to the company, its AI models are trained on large datasets of genetic information, allowing them to detect subtle patterns that may be difficult for human analysts to spot.

This means clinics can make faster decisions about which embryos to implant, potentially shortening treatment cycles and reducing the emotional and financial strain on patients who often undergo multiple IVF attempts.

Declining birth rates

The move comes as China’s fertility industry is gaining attention amid a sharp decline in birth rates. In recent years, the number of newborns in China has fallen to record lows, raising concerns about long-term economic growth and an aging population.

Despite the government easing its long-standing family planning policies including allowing families to have more children many couples remain reluctant to start or expand families due to high living costs, career pressures, and changing social attitudes.

As a result, more people are turning to assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF. Demand has been rising steadily, especially among older couples who may face greater fertility challenges. This has created a rapidly growing market for fertility clinics and related services, where success rates and efficiency are key competitive factors.

By integrating AI into chromosome testing, companies such as BGI Genomics are aiming to improve those success rates while also scaling up operations. Faster testing means clinics can handle more patients, while higher success rates can enhance reputation and attract new clients. Together, these factors could significantly boost revenues in a sector that is becoming increasingly commercialised.

At the same time, the use of AI in such sensitive areas raises important ethical and regulatory questions. Genetic data is highly personal, and experts warn that strict safeguards are needed to protect patient privacy and ensure that the technology is not misused.

There are also broader concerns about how far embryo selection should go, and where the line should be drawn between medical necessity and preference.

Chinese authorities have been strengthening oversight of the fertility sector in recent years, aiming to balance innovation with ethical standards. As AI-driven tools become more common, regulators are expected to play a larger role in setting guidelines and ensuring patient safety.

Analysts say the combination of AI and reproductive medicine could reshape the future of fertility treatment, not just in China but globally. If successful, the technology could make IVF more accessible, reduce repeated procedures, and improve outcomes for millions of families.

For China, the stakes are particularly high. While technological advances alone are unlikely to reverse the country’s declining birth rate, they may help address some of the medical barriers to childbirth. In that sense, innovations such as AI-powered chromosome testing are emerging as one small but significant piece of a much larger demographic challenge.

Tags

China birth rate decline China China fertility crisis IVF success rates China AI in IVF technology