In a testament to its resilient economy, China has reported the creation of 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, reinforcing the nation’s steady employment landscape amid global uncertainties.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security’s latest figures highlight a marginally improved unemployment rate, with the surveyed urban unemployment rate at 5.1 percent, down by 0.1 percentage points from the previous year. This slight decline indicates a consistent recovery and stabilization in China’s labor market.
“The employment situation remained generally stable,” affirmed Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a recent press conference. “We have seen positive trends in job creation and unemployment rates, reflecting the effectiveness of our employment policies.”
Significantly, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed by the end of 2024. This milestone underscores China’s commitment to not only eradicating poverty but also ensuring sustainable livelihoods for its citizens.
The expansion of social security coverage also marks a notable achievement. Close to 1.39 billion people now hold social security cards, including 1.07 billion digital card users. The integration of digital technology in social services enhances accessibility and efficiency, benefiting millions across the country.
The ministry has strengthened the standardized management of vocational competence assessment, with over 12 million individuals obtaining vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024.
Looking ahead, the ministry has outlined ambitious goals for 2025. A targeted employment support program will focus on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This includes establishing a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects.
The ministry will also accelerate research and formulation of policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system.
By the end of 2023, the nation saw 70,000 human resource service agencies in operation, employing 1.06 million people, according to Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the ministry. Throughout 2023, these agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers, with approximately 40 percent of these employers in the manufacturing sector.
Youth employment remains a priority, especially for college graduates entering the job market. The ministry plans to launch a youth job creation program in 2025, implementing measures to boost employment and encourage entrepreneurship among young people.
“We will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people,” said Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry.
As China continues to navigate global economic challenges, these initiatives reflect a proactive approach to maintaining a stable employment environment and fostering growth across various sectors.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
