China Achieves Annual Employment Target Early with 12.1 Million Urban Jobs Added

China – Labor Market

China has achieved its annual urban employment target a month early, having added 12.1 million urban jobs in the first 11 months of 2025, surpassing the government target of over 12 million jobs for the entire year, according to data from the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.

The data showed that the urban unemployment rate measured by survey was 5.2% during the mentioned period, which is better than the official target of around 5.5%, reflecting a gradual improvement in labor market conditions despite economic challenges.

Regarding migrant workers from rural areas, the unemployment rate recorded 4.4%, lower than the national average, indicating stable demand for labor in labor-intensive sectors.

On a monthly basis, the urban unemployment rate in November remained at 5.1%, marking its lowest level since June. The unemployment rate among local workers remained unchanged at 5.3%, while the unemployment rate for migrant workers stabilized at 4.7%.

These figures are viewed as a positive indicator supporting Beijing's efforts to enhance economic and social stability, as the government continues to prioritize employment support as a key aspect of its macroeconomic policies.