China has reported the creation of 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the nation's employment sector. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced on Tuesday that the employment situation remains generally stable, with the surveyed urban unemployment rate standing at 5.1 percent—0.1 percentage points lower than the previous year.
\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" stated Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry, during a press conference. By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty were successfully employed, showcasing China's ongoing efforts to alleviate poverty through job creation.
China's social security coverage has also expanded significantly. As of the end of last year, nearly 1.39 billion people held social security cards, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. \"Social security cards are divided into physical cards and digital cards. Many people hold both types,\" Lu explained.
In a move to enhance workforce competencies, 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, bolstering the nation's skilled labor force.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program focused on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots areas, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The program aims to establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, fostering greater employment opportunities.
Efforts are also underway to enhance the private pension system's appeal. The Ministry will accelerate research and formulate relevant policies and measures to further develop this sector, aiming to provide better financial security for the aging population.
By the end of 2023, there were 70,000 human resource service agencies 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 approximately 40 percent of these employers in the manufacturing sector.
Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority. The Ministry announced that this year it will introduce a youth job creation program, 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.
These initiatives reflect China's commitment to maintaining a stable employment landscape and fostering economic growth. By focusing on key sectors and supporting youth employment, China aims to enhance its workforce and drive sustainable development in the coming years.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
