China has achieved a significant milestone in 2024 by creating 12.56 million new urban jobs, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. Announced on Tuesday, this achievement highlights the nation's ongoing efforts to bolster employment and sustain economic growth.
\\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\\" stated Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a press conference. The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points compared to the previous year.
In a remarkable feat, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed by the end of 2024. This development underscores China's commitment to poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.
The reach of China's social security network has also expanded, with nearly 1.39 billion social security card holders by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. Social security cards, available in both physical and digital forms, play a crucial role in providing citizens with access to various social services.
Lu emphasized the ministry's efforts in enhancing vocational skills across the country. Over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates last year, following strengthened management of vocational competence assessments.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program in 2025, focusing on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots areas, 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, thereby connecting job seekers with emerging opportunities.
Efforts to enhance the private pension system are also underway. The ministry will accelerate research and formulation of relevant policies and measures to further increase the system's appeal, encouraging more citizens to participate and secure their future.
Expanding Human Resource Services
The human resource service industry is flourishing, with 70,000 agencies operating across the country by the end of 2023, 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,\\" reported Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the ministry.
Prioritizing Youth Employment
Youth employment remains a top priority. The ministry plans to 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 Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry.
China's proactive approach to employment reflects its commitment to economic stability and social well-being. As the nation continues to develop, these initiatives aim to provide opportunities for all citizens and sustain long-term growth.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
