China has achieved a significant milestone in 2024, creating 12.56 million new urban jobs, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. The announcement was made on Tuesday, highlighting the nation's efforts to maintain a stable employment landscape amidst global economic challenges.
The ministry reported that the surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from 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 secured employment, showcasing China's commitment to eradicating poverty and improving livelihoods. The focus on job creation has been pivotal in ensuring economic growth and social stability.
Expanding Social Security and Skill Development
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, available in both physical and digital forms, play a crucial role in providing citizens with access to essential services.
Lu emphasized the ministry's efforts in enhancing vocational competence assessment, with over 12 million individuals obtaining vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024. This initiative aims to boost the skilled workforce, meeting the demands of various industries.
Future Employment Initiatives
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 program includes establishing a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects.
The ministry also intends to accelerate the development of policies to enhance the private pension system's appeal, providing better retirement solutions for citizens.
By the end of 2023, there were 70,000 human resource service agencies operating across the country, employing 1.06 million people. 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 Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the ministry.
Supporting Youth Employment
Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority. The ministry plans to introduce a youth job creation program in 2025, 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 dedication to fostering a robust job market and supporting the workforce across all sectors. The government's proactive approach aims to ensure continued economic development and social well-being.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
