The Effect of Migratory Behavior on Fertility in Fujian, China

Jiejin Li, University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY)
Zai Liang, University at Albany, State University of New York (SUNY)

This study uses data from China International Migration Project to examine the effect of couple’s migratory behavior on the fertility in Fujian, China. Taking both internal and international migration experience of the couple, and multiple aspects of fertility into account comprehensively, this research not only improve theoretical framework but also give policy implications on China’s Family Planning. Applying event history analyses, we find strong evidence for the association of migration with lower fertility. Migration inhibits fertility in three aspects: reduce number of children, lengthen 1st and 2nd birth interval from marriage, and decrease the risk of having 1st and 2nd child birth. In addition, wife’s migrant experience is also crucial in the fertility behavior, which pushes us to rethink the sex role of domestic economy and family reproduction.