The Impact of Labor Force Aging on Innovation-Driven Economic Growth in China

As China has entered a critical phase of economic and social transformation, innovation has been elevated as the central pillar of high-quality development. At the same time, the country is facing a rapid demographic shift marked by declining birth rates and accelerated aging of its labor force. Drawing on theoretical frameworks and regional case studies, this study investigates the complex relationship between population aging and innovation-driven economic growth in China. It explores how changes in labor force structure affect the accumulation of innovation resources, knowledge spillovers, and technological diffusion. While conventional views warn that an aging population may reduce R&D vitality and create a talent gap recent perspectives highlight opportunities in the silver economy and related industries. The study analyzes representative models in regions such as Shanghai and Shenzhen to identify adaptive strategies that mitigate aging-related constraints and sustain innovation performance. Findings show that with the right policy incentives and structural adjustments, innovation growth remains resilient despite demographic challenges. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for leveraging demographic characteristics to support localized innovation systems and long-term sustainable development.