China has reported the creation of 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, showcasing a stable employment landscape amid global economic uncertainties. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security announced the figures on Tuesday, highlighting the nation's commitment to maintaining robust job growth.
According to the ministry, the surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year. Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, affirmed at a press conference that \"the employment situation remained generally stable.\"
Notably, by the end of 2024, over 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty found employment, reflecting China's efforts in alleviating poverty and improving livelihoods.
Boost in Social Security and Vocational Skills
The number of social security card holders reached nearly 1.39 billion by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital social security card users. Social security cards are available in both physical and digital formats, with many residents holding both types.
The ministry has also enhanced the management of vocational competence assessments. Over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates last year, underscoring the government's focus on upskilling the workforce.
Targeted Employment Support and Youth Initiatives
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry plans to implement a targeted employment support program aimed at key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots areas, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This program will establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects.
The ministry will accelerate research and formulate policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system, further supporting workers' long-term financial security.
By the end of 2023, there were 70,000 human resource service agencies operating across the country, employing 1.06 million people. According to ministry official Zhang Wenmiao, these agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers throughout 2023, with approximately 40 percent of these employers in the manufacturing sector.
This year, the ministry is set to introduce a youth job creation program, including measures to boost employment for college graduates. Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority. Ministry official Chen Yongjia stated that throughout 2025, the ministry will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
