was/were born

[Tan Elaine]

In other countries like Australia, New Zealand and Canada, immigrants are expected to adapt and integrate themselves into local societies. It is the other way round in Singapore.

Due to the PAP’s liberal immigration and pro-foreigner policies, foreigners now make up 36 percent of Singapore’s population, up from 14 percent in 1990. Of the remaining 64 percent who are citizens, an increasing number are/were born overseaas.

Should 'was' or 'are' be used?

Thanks in advance.

[sarat_106]

In other countries like Australia, New Zealand and Canada, immigrants are expected to adapt and integrate themselves into local societies. It is the other way round in Singapore.

Due to the PAP’s liberal immigration and pro-foreigner policies, foreigners now make up 36 percent of Singapore’s population, up from 14 percent in 1990. Of the remaining 64 percent who are citizens, an increasing number are/were born overseaas.

Should 'was' or 'are' be used?

Thanks in advance.

an increasing number is a phrase which refers to more than one; as
An increasing number of ctizens are born overseaas.
So use 'are'