China has announced the creation of 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, reflecting a stable and robust employment landscape. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security revealed the figures on Tuesday, highlighting the nation's continued efforts to bolster its workforce and support economic growth.
\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, at a press conference. China's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year.
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, underscoring China's commitment to eradicating poverty and enhancing living standards across the nation.
The number of social security card holders in China reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion users of digital social security cards. \"Social security cards are divided into physical and digital formats, with many people holding both types,\" explained Lu.
Lu added 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 in 2024, contributing to a more skilled workforce.
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 provide better social security for the aging population.
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. 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, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority for the ministry. \"This year, we will introduce a youth job creation program, including measures to boost employment for college graduates,\" said ministry official Chen Yongjia. Throughout 2025, the ministry will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.
China's comprehensive approach to employment, from expanding job opportunities to enhancing vocational training and supporting young professionals, reflects its dedication to sustaining economic momentum and improving the livelihoods of its people.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
