China has reported the creation of 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, signaling a stable employment situation across the country. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced this achievement on Tuesday, highlighting a slight decline in the surveyed urban unemployment rate to 5.1 percent—0.1 percentage points lower than the previous year.
"The employment situation remained generally stable," said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry, during a press conference. This stability is further reflected in the successful employment of over 33.05 million people lifted from poverty by the end of 2024, underscoring China's ongoing efforts in poverty alleviation and economic development.
Social security continues to expand, with nearly 1.39 billion social security card holders reported by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. The cards, available in both physical and digital forms, are integral to China's social welfare system, with many residents holding both types.
In addition, the Ministry has strengthened the standardized management of vocational competence assessments. Over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates last year, enhancing the skilled workforce in various sectors.
Looking ahead, the Ministry announced plans for 2025, which include implementing a targeted employment support program focusing on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This initiative aims to establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, further boosting employment opportunities.
The Ministry will also accelerate research and formulate relevant policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system, aiming to strengthen social security for the aging population.
By the end of 2023, according to official Zhang Wenmiao, 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating nationwide, employing 1.06 million people. 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 top priority. The Ministry announced plans to introduce a youth job creation program this year, including measures to boost employment for college graduates. "Throughout 2025, we will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people," said Chen Yongjia, an official with the Ministry.
These initiatives reflect China's commitment to maintaining stable employment and fostering economic growth, particularly in the face of global economic challenges. By focusing on job creation, vocational training, and social security enhancements, China aims to ensure a prosperous future for its urban and rural populations alike.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
