China's employment landscape remained robust in 2024, with the nation adding 12.56 million new urban jobs, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. This significant growth illustrates the country's ongoing efforts to stabilize and strengthen its economy amid global challenges.
The surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5.1 percent in 2024, a 0.1 percentage point decrease from the previous year. \"The employment situation remained generally stable,\" said Lu Aihong, spokesperson for the ministry, during a recent press conference.
By the end of 2024, more than 33.05 million individuals who had been lifted from poverty secured employment, marking a substantial stride in China's poverty alleviation and social development initiatives.
The reach of China's social security system expanded, with nearly 1.39 billion social security card holders by the end of last year, including 1.07 billion digital card users. Social security cards, both physical and digital, play a crucial role in providing citizens with access to various services and benefits.
The ministry also enhanced the standardized management of vocational competence assessments. Over 12 million individuals obtained vocational skill-level certificates or professional qualification certificates in 2024, reflecting the government's commitment to upskilling the workforce and boosting employability.
Looking ahead to 2025, the ministry announced plans to implement a targeted employment support program focusing on key sectors, industries, urban-rural grassroots areas, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. The initiative aims to establish a robust mechanism for collecting and disseminating job information related to major projects, further stimulating employment opportunities.
Efforts will also be accelerated to research and formulate policies enhancing the appeal of the private pension system, aiming to provide better retirement solutions for the aging population.
The human resource service sector saw significant growth. By the end of 2023, about 70,000 human resource service agencies operated nationwide, employing over 1.06 million people. These agencies provided services to 300 million workers and 55.99 million employers, with approximately 40 percent of the employers in the manufacturing sector, according to ministry official Zhang Wenmiao.
Youth employment remains a top priority. The ministry announced the introduction of a youth job creation program in 2024, 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 ministry official Chen Yongjia, highlighting the government's focus on supporting the younger workforce.
China's proactive approach in expanding employment opportunities, enhancing social security, and prioritizing youth employment underscores its commitment to economic stability and social development. As the nation moves forward, these initiatives are expected to contribute significantly to the country's dynamic role in the global economy.
Reference(s):
China adds 12.56m new urban jobs in 2024, employment situation stable
cgtn.com
