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. The announcement, made on Tuesday, highlights the nation's steady economic growth and its efforts to stabilize the job market.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year, reflecting a generally stable employment situation. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a press conference.
Lu noted that by the end of 2024, over 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty were gainfully employed. This milestone underscores China's commitment to improving livelihoods and reducing poverty through job creation.
Expansion of Social Security
The number of social security card holders in China reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users, as reported by the ministry. Social security cards, available in both physical and digital formats, play a crucial role in accessing social welfare services, and many citizens hold both types. The widespread adoption of digital social security cards indicates a significant shift towards digitization in public services.
Furthermore, 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 in various sectors.
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 initiative aims to establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, thereby connecting job seekers with employment opportunities effectively.
The ministry also intends to accelerate research and formulate relevant policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system. Enhancing the private pension system is expected to provide additional security for retirees and stimulate the economy through increased participation.
Growth in Human Resource Services
By the end of 2023, approximately 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating across the country, employing 1.06 million people, according to official Zhang Wenmiao. 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 growth in human resource services indicates a robust support system for both employees and employers in China.
Youth Employment Focus
The ministry highlighted its commitment to youth employment, particularly for college graduates. This year, it plans to introduce a youth job creation program that includes measures to boost employment among young people entering the workforce. \"Youth employment remains a top priority for the ministry,\" said official Chen Yongjia. \"Throughout 2025, we will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.\"
These initiatives reflect China's dedication to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for the younger generation, which is essential for sustainable economic growth and innovation.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
