In a significant boost to its labor market, China created 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced on Tuesday. This achievement underscores the country's continued efforts to maintain economic stability and improve living standards.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent, marking a 0.1 percentage point decrease from the previous year, according to the ministry. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" stated Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, during a press conference.
Advancements in Poverty Alleviation and Social Security
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed, reflecting China's commitment to sustained poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.
The number of social security card holders reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users, Lu reported. Social security cards, available in both physical and digital forms, play a crucial role in providing residents with access to various public services.
Enhancing Vocational Skills and Employment Support
The ministry has strengthened the standardized management of vocational competence assessments, with over 12 million individuals obtaining vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates last year. This initiative aims to enhance the workforce's skills and adaptability in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
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. The program will establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects.
Boosting the Private Pension System
Efforts will be accelerated to research and formulate policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system, contributing to the long-term financial security of China's aging population.
Growth in Human Resource Services
By the end of 2023, approximately 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating across the country, employing 1.06 million people, according to Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the ministry. Throughout 2023, these agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers, with about 40 percent of these employers in the manufacturing sector.
Focus on Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship
The ministry announced plans to introduce a youth job creation program this year, 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 reflect China's ongoing commitment to fostering a stable employment environment and supporting economic growth across various sectors.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
