China has achieved a significant milestone by creating 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This accomplishment underscores the country's efforts to maintain a stable employment environment amid global economic challenges.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate dropped to 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year. Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, highlighted at a press conference that \"the employment situation remained generally stable.\"
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, showcasing China's commitment to improving livelihoods and reducing inequality. Additionally, nearly 1.39 billion people held social security cards by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital card users. Many citizens possess both physical and digital cards, reflecting the modernization of social services.
The ministry also reported that more than 12 million people obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates last year. This emphasis on skills development is poised to enhance the workforce's competitiveness and adaptability.
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program focusing on key sectors, industries, and urban-rural grassroots. This initiative aims to bolster micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises by establishing a mechanism for collecting and disseminating job information related to major projects.
Efforts will also be intensified to enhance the appeal of the private pension system through the development of relevant policies and measures. This move is expected to provide more robust support for the aging population.
By the end of 2023, approximately 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating nationwide, employing 1.06 million people. These agencies served 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers throughout 2023, with about 40 percent of the employers in the manufacturing sector, as reported by ministry official Zhang Wenmiao.
Addressing youth employment remains a top priority. The ministry plans to introduce a youth job creation program this year, including measures specifically designed to boost employment opportunities for college graduates. Chen Yongjia, another official with the ministry, stated that throughout 2025, a series of activities would be organized to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.
These comprehensive efforts reflect China's commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic labor market, supporting economic growth, and ensuring social stability in the years to come.
