Jakarta Overtakes Tokyo as World’s Largest City in 2025
Source: Indonesia’s Jakarta now the world’s largest city, Tokyo falls to third: UN (2025-11-27)
A groundbreaking United Nations report confirms Jakarta, Indonesia, has become the world’s largest city, surpassing Tokyo with a population of 41.9 million. This shift highlights rapid urbanization in Asia, driven by economic growth, rural-to-urban migration, and demographic trends. Jakarta’s rise reflects broader regional patterns, with nine of the top ten mega-cities located in Asia, and projections indicating Dhaka, Bangladesh, will be the largest city globally by 2050. The decline of Tokyo’s population to 33.4 million underscores demographic shifts in developed nations, where aging populations and low birth rates are slowing growth. Recent data reveals that urban populations are increasingly concentrated in Asia due to economic opportunities, infrastructure development, and government policies promoting urbanization. For instance, Indonesia’s capital has experienced significant infrastructure investments, including new transportation networks and smart city initiatives, to accommodate its swelling population. Meanwhile, Tokyo’s population decline is partly attributed to Japan’s aging society, with over 28% of its residents aged 65 and above, and a declining birth rate of 1.3 children per woman—well below the replacement level. Furthermore, the UN’s latest projections suggest that by 2030, nearly 60% of the global population will reside in urban areas, with Asia accounting for the majority. This urban shift is accompanied by challenges such as housing shortages, traffic congestion, pollution, and strain on public services. Governments across Asia are adopting innovative solutions, including sustainable urban planning, green infrastructure, and smart technology, to manage these pressures effectively. In addition to demographic changes, climate change impacts are increasingly influencing urban development. Jakarta, a low-lying coastal city, faces rising sea levels and flooding risks, prompting investments in flood defenses and resilient infrastructure. Conversely, Tokyo’s efforts focus on earthquake preparedness and disaster management, given its seismic activity. These adaptations are vital as cities strive to balance growth with sustainability and resilience. The rise of Jakarta as the world’s largest city also has geopolitical implications. Indonesia’s expanding urban economy is positioning it as a regional hub for commerce, technology, and culture. The city’s diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and burgeoning tech sector attract international investment and talent. Meanwhile, Tokyo’s decline reflects broader challenges faced by aging societies, including labor shortages and economic stagnation, prompting Japan to explore policies encouraging immigration and workforce participation. In conclusion, Jakarta’s ascension to the top spot underscores the dynamic nature of global urbanization. As cities like Dhaka and Lagos continue to grow rapidly, policymakers must prioritize sustainable development, infrastructure resilience, and social inclusion. The evolving demographic landscape presents both opportunities and challenges, shaping the future of global cities in the 21st century. With ongoing technological advancements and climate adaptation strategies, urban centers worldwide are poised to transform in unprecedented ways, reflecting the complex interplay of population dynamics, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.