As artificial intelligence advances rapidly and raises concerns about replacing human jobs, the Chinese government has unveiled plans to actively leverage AI for new job creation.
Wang Xiaoping, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, made the announcement at a press conference on livelihood issues during the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress in Beijing on Friday. He was responding to questions about China's employment policies during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030).
Youth unemployment has emerged as a serious social problem in China. Creating jobs for college graduates, expected to reach 12.7 million this year, is an urgent priority.
"We have confidence and capability to stabilize and improve overall employment," Wang said. "At the same time, uncertain and unpredictable factors are increasing. Employment stability faces new changes and challenges."
Citing job-friendly development as a key priority this year, Wang noted that "AI is currently developing rapidly and significantly impacting employment, which everyone is watching very closely."
"We are studying relevant policies to promote inclusive development where technological progress and livelihood improvement are harmonized, while AI plays an active role in creating new jobs and strengthening existing job capabilities," he emphasized.
Wang said the government will provide large-scale internships and practical training for young people and customized skills training for older workers.
The government will subsidize vocational skills training for more than 10 million person-times this year in sectors including new energy vehicles, AI technology, and health services, he added.
According to Premier Li Qiang's government work report, China has set targets this year of maintaining urban unemployment at around 5.5% and creating more than 12 million new urban jobs.
