China Creates 12.56 Million New Urban Jobs in 2024, Employment Remains Stable
China has successfully created 12.56 million new urban jobs in 2024, showcasing a stable employment landscape amidst global economic uncertainties. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security made the announcement on Tuesday, highlighting the nation's commitment to job creation and economic resilience.
Unemployment Rate Sees Slight Decrease
In 2024, China's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent, a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points compared to the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" stated Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a press conference. Lu emphasized the positive trends in the job market despite global challenges.
Progress in Poverty Alleviation Employment
By the end of 2024, over 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty were employed, marking significant progress in China's poverty alleviation efforts. This achievement reflects the nation's dedication to improving livelihoods and providing opportunities for all citizens.
Expansion of Social Security Coverage
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. Many individuals hold both physical and digital versions of the card, enhancing accessibility and convenience. This widespread coverage underscores the government's efforts to strengthen social security systems across the country.
Enhancing Vocational Skills and Certifications
The ministry has intensified efforts to standardize the management of vocational competence assessments. Over 12 million people obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024, reflecting a focus on upskilling the workforce to meet evolving industry demands.
Plans for 2025: Targeted Employment Support
Looking ahead, the ministry announced that in 2025, it will implement a targeted employment support program for key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This initiative includes establishing mechanisms for collecting and disseminating information on job positions related to major projects.
Additionally, the ministry plans to accelerate research and formulate policies to enhance the appeal of the private pension system, aiming to bolster financial security for retirees.
Human Resource Services Expansion
According to ministry official Zhang Wenmiao, 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 expansion signifies the growing importance of human resource services in China's economy.
Youth Employment Initiatives
The ministry highlighted plans to introduce a youth job creation program this year, focusing on boosting employment for college graduates. \"Youth employment remains a top priority for the ministry,\" said official Chen Yongjia. \"Throughout 2025, we will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people.\"
These initiatives aim to address the challenges faced by young job seekers and support the next generation in contributing to the nation's economic growth.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
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