China has made significant strides in bolstering employment, adding 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This achievement underscores the country's efforts to maintain a stable employment environment amid global economic challenges.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, marking a 0.1 percentage point decrease from the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a press conference.
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, reflecting the government's commitment to alleviating poverty through job creation.
China's social security system also saw substantial growth, with nearly 1.39 billion social security card holders by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. Many citizens hold both physical and digital cards, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
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, highlighting the emphasis on skill development and professional advancement.
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry announced plans to implement 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.
The ministry will also accelerate research and formulate relevant policies and measures to further enhance the appeal of the private pension system, aiming to strengthen social security for the aging population.
In 2023, approximately 70,000 human resource service agencies operated across the country, employing 1.06 million people. These agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers, with around 40 percent of these employers in the manufacturing sector, according to ministry official Zhang Wenmiao.
Addressing youth employment remains a top priority. The ministry will 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 ministry official Chen Yongjia.
China's continued focus on employment initiatives and social security enhancements reflects its dedication to fostering economic stability and improving the livelihoods of its citizens.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
