China has achieved significant progress in employment in 2024, creating 12.56 million new urban jobs, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This development marks a stable employment environment, with the surveyed urban unemployment rate standing at 5.1 percent, a slight decrease of 0.1 percentage points from the previous year.
\"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the Ministry, during a press conference on Tuesday.
The ministry highlighted that by the end of 2024, over 33.05 million people who had been lifted from poverty were employed, showcasing China's ongoing efforts in poverty alleviation and social welfare.
Expansion of Social Security Coverage
China's social security network continues to expand, with nearly 1.39 billion social security card holders by the end of last year. Of these, 1.07 billion are digital social security card users, reflecting a growing trend towards digitalization. Social security cards are available in both physical and digital formats, and many individuals possess both types.
Enhancing Vocational Skills and Qualifications
In an effort to strengthen the workforce's competencies, the ministry has reinforced the standardized management of vocational competence assessments. Over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024.
Employment Support Programs for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry announced plans to implement targeted employment support programs for key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. This initiative aims to establish a mechanism for collecting and releasing information on job positions related to major projects, enhancing transparency and accessibility in the job market.
Additionally, the ministry will accelerate research and formulate relevant policies to further enhance the appeal of the private pension system, encouraging greater participation and security for retirees.
Growth of Human Resource Services
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. Throughout 2023, these agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers, with approximately 40 percent of the employers in the manufacturing sector.
Focus on Youth Employment
Youth employment, particularly for college graduates, remains a top priority. The ministry announced plans to introduce a youth job creation program this year, including measures to boost employment for college graduates.
\"Throughout 2025, we will organize a series of activities to promote employment and entrepreneurship among young people,\" said Chen Yongjia, an official with the ministry.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
