China has successfully created 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This achievement surpasses expectations and underscores the resilience of the nation's economy amid global uncertainties.
\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry, during a press conference on Tuesday. The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points compared to the previous year.
Employment for People Lifted from Poverty
By the end of 2024, more than 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed, reflecting China's ongoing commitment to alleviating poverty through job creation. The Ministry highlighted that this progress is crucial for maintaining social stability and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Expansion of Social Security Coverage
The Ministry reported that the number of social security card holders reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. These cards, available in both physical and digital formats, play a significant role in streamlining access to social services for citizens.
Vocational Training and Skill Development
Lu also noted that over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024. \"We have strengthened the standardized management of vocational competence assessment,\" he explained, emphasizing the importance of upskilling the workforce in response to evolving industry demands.
Upcoming Employment Support Initiatives
Looking ahead, the Ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program in 2025. This program aims to bolster key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. It will establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, facilitating better matching between employers and job seekers.
Efforts will also be made to enhance the appeal of the private pension system. \"We will accelerate the research and formulation of relevant policies and measures,\" Lu said, highlighting the government's initiative to improve retirement security for the population.
Growth of Human Resource Services
By the end of 2023, 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating across the country, employing 1.06 million people, according to Ministry official Zhang Wenmiao. These agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers throughout 2023, with approximately 40 percent of the employers in the manufacturing sector.
Focus on Youth Employment
Recognizing the importance of youth employment, particularly for college graduates, the Ministry announced the introduction of a youth job creation program this year. \"Youth employment remains a top priority,\" said Ministry official Chen Yongjia. \"Throughout 2025, we will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.\"
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
