In 2024, China successfully added 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 stabilize employment 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,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a press conference.
Significantly, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed by the end of 2024. This reflects China's ongoing commitment to eradicating poverty and promoting inclusive economic growth.
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, according to the spokesperson. Social security cards are available in both physical and digital forms, with many individuals holding both types.
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 last year, enhancing the skilled workforce.
Looking ahead, the ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program in 2025. The program will focus on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, establishing a mechanism for collecting and releasing job information related to major projects.
The ministry will also accelerate research and formulate policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system, aiming to improve 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, said 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.
The ministry stated that it would 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,\" said Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry. \"Throughout 2025, the ministry will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.\"
China's efforts to stabilize employment and boost job creation reflect its dedication to sustainable economic growth and social development. The initiatives outlined by the ministry aim to support key industries, empower the youth, and enhance social security systems, contributing to a more prosperous future for the nation.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
