China has made significant strides in bolstering its urban employment landscape, adding 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This achievement surpasses the government's annual target and reflects the nation's robust economic recovery and development.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points compared to the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a recent press conference.
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, showcasing China's continued efforts in poverty alleviation and social development. The expansion of employment opportunities has been pivotal in sustaining economic growth and enhancing the livelihoods of millions across the Chinese mainland.
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. Social security cards in China are divided into physical and digital versions, with many individuals utilizing both forms for convenience and accessibility.
Lu highlighted 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, emphasizing the government's commitment to upskilling the workforce and meeting the demands of a changing economy.
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program focusing on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, as well as micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This initiative includes establishing a mechanism for collecting and disseminating information on job positions related to major projects, aiming to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers effectively.
The ministry also intends to accelerate research and formulate relevant policies to further enhance the appeal of the private pension system. By improving the private pension framework, China aims to provide more comprehensive and attractive retirement options for its aging population.
According to Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the ministry, approximately 70,000 human resource service agencies were 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 about 40 percent of these employers in the manufacturing sector. This highlights the significant role of human resource services in supporting both employees and businesses.
Addressing youth employment, the ministry announced the introduction of a youth job creation program in the coming year, including measures to boost employment for college graduates. \"Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority for the ministry,\" stated 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, fostering innovation and driving future economic growth.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
