China has created 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, reflecting a stable employment situation across the country, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.
At a press conference on Tuesday, ministry spokesperson Lu Aihong announced that the nation's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" Lu remarked.
Significantly, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed by the end of 2024, highlighting China's ongoing efforts to promote inclusive growth and reduce socioeconomic disparities.
Expansion of Social Security Coverage
China's social security network has also seen substantial growth. By the end of last year, nearly 1.39 billion people held social security cards, including 1.07 billion digital card users. These cards, available in both physical and digital forms, play a crucial role in accessing social services, with many individuals opting to hold both types.
Enhancing Vocational Skills
The ministry has intensified the standardized management of vocational competence assessments. In 2024 alone, over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates, demonstrating the government's commitment to upskilling the workforce.
Upcoming Employment Support Initiatives
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry plans to implement a targeted employment support program focusing on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots areas, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This initiative aims to establish a robust mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects.
Additionally, efforts will be accelerated to research and formulate policies that enhance the appeal of the private pension system, addressing the needs of an aging population and encouraging greater participation.
Growth in Human Resource Services
Official data indicates that by the end of 2023, over 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.
Focus on Youth Employment
The ministry has underscored youth employment, particularly for college graduates, as a top priority. \"Youth employment remains a significant focus for us,\" said Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry. \"Throughout 2025, we will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.\"
A youth job creation program is set to be introduced this year, including measures specifically designed to boost employment opportunities for college graduates. These initiatives aim to harness the potential of the younger generation and foster innovation and economic development.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com