China has made significant strides in stabilizing its employment landscape, adding 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced on Tuesday. This achievement underscores the nation's ongoing efforts to bolster its economy and provide opportunities for its burgeoning workforce.
\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" stated Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry, during a press conference. The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year, reflecting a positive trend in job creation and economic recovery.
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, marking a significant milestone in China's poverty alleviation initiatives. The government's focus on inclusive growth has provided tangible benefits for millions, integrating them into the workforce and enhancing their quality of life.
In a move towards digitalization, 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. The widespread adoption of digital cards signifies a shift towards more efficient and accessible social services. \"Social security cards are divided into physical cards and digital cards, and many people hold both types,\" Lu explained.
The Ministry has also intensified the standardized management of vocational competence assessments. In 2024, over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates, enhancing the skilled labor force and supporting industrial development.
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 (MSMEs). This initiative aims to establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, thereby connecting job seekers with emerging opportunities.
Efforts will also accelerate in researching and formulating policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system. Strengthening private pensions is seen as a critical step in ensuring long-term financial security for the aging population.
Human resource service agencies have played a pivotal role in China's employment landscape. By the end of 2023, around 70,000 such agencies were 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. \"These agencies are crucial in bridging the gap between employers and employees,\" noted Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the Ministry.
Youth employment remains a top priority for the government. The Ministry announced the introduction of a youth job creation program this year, including measures to boost employment for college graduates. \"We will organize a series of activities throughout 2025 to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people,\" said Chen Yongjia, an official with the Ministry. These initiatives aim to harness the potential of the younger generation, driving innovation and sustaining economic growth.
China's commitment to fostering employment and supporting its workforce reflects a broader strategy to maintain economic stability and promote social well-being. As the nation moves forward, these efforts are expected to contribute significantly to its development goals and the prosperity of its people.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
