China Adds 12.56 Million New Urban Jobs in 2024, Employment Situation Stable
China created 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This achievement highlights the Chinese mainland's efforts to maintain a robust labor market amid global economic uncertainties.
In 2024, the surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, during a press conference.
Empowering Those Lifted from Poverty
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed. This emphasizes the country's continued commitment to eradicating poverty and improving livelihoods across the Chinese mainland.
Expansion of Social Security Cards
China's social security card holders reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. Social security cards are divided into physical and digital forms, with many individuals holding both types. This expansion facilitates easier access to social services and benefits for residents nationwide.
Enhancing Vocational Skills
Lu noted that 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, reflecting a focus on skill development to meet the evolving demands of the job market.
Upcoming Employment Support in 2025
The ministry announced that in 2025, it will implement a targeted employment support program for 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, aiming to bridge the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities.
Additionally, the ministry will accelerate the research and formulation of relevant policies to enhance the private pension system's appeal, encouraging greater participation and securing financial futures for citizens.
Growth in Human Resource Services
By the end of 2023, 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating across the country, 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, according to official Zhang Wenmiao.
Youth Employment Initiatives
The ministry stated that this year it will introduce a youth job creation program, including measures to boost employment for college graduates. Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority.
\"Throughout 2025, the ministry will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people,\" said Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry. These initiatives aim to harness the potential of the younger generation and foster innovative growth within the economy.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
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