China has reported a significant boost in its urban employment sector, adding 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This achievement underscores the country's efforts to stabilize employment amid global economic challenges.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate in China stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year, reflecting a steady improvement in the job market. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" stated Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry, during a press conference on Tuesday.
By the end of 2024, more than 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, marking a significant milestone in China's poverty alleviation initiatives. The focus on integrating these individuals into the workforce highlights the nation's commitment to sustainable development and social stability.
The number of social security card holders in China reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, with 1.07 billion of them using digital social security cards. The widespread adoption of digital cards signifies China's ongoing digital transformation in public services. \"Social security cards are divided into physical and digital types, and many people hold both,\" Lu explained.
In addition to employment growth, 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 labor force in various industries.
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 job information related to major projects, facilitating better job matching and opportunities.
The Ministry also intends to accelerate research and formulate policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system, addressing the needs of an aging population and encouraging private investment in retirement planning.
According to Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the Ministry, by the end of 2023, there were 70,000 human resource service agencies operating nationwide, employing 1.06 million people. 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. This reflects the significant role of human resource services in supporting China's vast labor market.
Recognizing youth employment as a top priority, the Ministry announced the introduction of a youth job creation program this year, 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 demonstrate China's proactive approach to fostering employment growth, supporting vulnerable groups, and enhancing the overall resilience of its economy in the face of global uncertainties.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
