China created 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, showcasing a stable employment landscape, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.
\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, during a press conference on Tuesday. The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points compared to the previous year.
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed, highlighting the nation's ongoing efforts to combat poverty through job creation.
Expanding Social Security Coverage
China's social security system continues to grow, with nearly 1.39 billion social security card holders by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users, Lu noted. Social security cards are available in both physical and digital formats, and many individuals possess both types.
Enhancing Vocational Skills
The ministry has strengthened the standardized management of vocational competence assessment. Over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024, reflecting the government's commitment to improving the workforce's skill set.
Targeted Employment Support in 2025
Looking ahead, the ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program in 2025. This initiative will focus on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots areas, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. A mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects will be established to facilitate employment opportunities.
Additionally, the ministry will accelerate research and formulate policies to further enhance the appeal of the private pension system, aiming to strengthen the social security framework.
Growth of Human Resource Services
By the end of 2023, China had 70,000 human resource service agencies operating nationwide, employing 1.06 million people, according to ministry official Zhang Wenmiao. 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.
Focus on Youth Employment
Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority for the ministry. \"Throughout 2025, the ministry will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people,\" said Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry. A youth job creation program will be introduced, including measures to boost employment for college graduates.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
