China has reported a significant boost in employment, adding 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. The country's employment situation remains stable, reflecting steady economic recovery and growth.
Employment Situation Remains Stable
At a press conference on Tuesday, Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, announced that China's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" Lu stated, emphasizing the positive trend in the labor market.
Over 33 Million Lifted from Poverty Find Employment
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 efforts to eradicate poverty and promote inclusive growth.
Expansion of Social Security Coverage
The ministry also highlighted advancements in social security integration. Nearly 1.39 billion individuals are now social security card holders, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users, as of the end of last year. \"Social security cards are divided into physical cards and digital cards. Many people hold both types,\" Lu explained.
Vocational Training Enhancements
In terms of vocational development, over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates last year, as the ministry strengthened the standardized management of vocational competence assessment.
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, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. It aims to establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, further enhancing employment opportunities.
Additionally, the ministry will accelerate research and formulation of policies to boost the appeal of the private pension system, catering to the growing needs of the aging population.
Growth in Human Resource Services
The human resource service industry has also seen significant growth. By the end of 2023, approximately 70,000 human resource service agencies were operating across the country, employing 1.06 million people. \"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,\" reported Zhang Wenmiao, an official with the ministry.
Focus on Youth Employment
Youth employment remains a top priority. The ministry announced plans to introduce a youth job creation program in 2025, including measures to boost employment for college graduates. \"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.
Commitment to Inclusive Growth
China's continued focus on employment growth, social security enhancement, and vocational development underscores its commitment to fostering a robust and inclusive economy. These efforts are poised to contribute significantly to the nation's social and economic prosperity in the coming years.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
