China's Youth Unemployment Declines as Government Boosts Economic Support Measures
April 17, 2025
In response to ongoing economic challenges, the Chinese government is implementing stronger fiscal and monetary support measures, targeting a growth rate of approximately 5% for 2025.
Overall, the nationwide urban jobless rate for March 2025 was recorded at 5.2%, a decrease from a two-year high of 5.4% in February.
As part of its efforts to enhance employment opportunities, China’s State Council has released new guidelines aimed at developing a high-quality employment service system specifically for university graduates.
Additionally, the unemployment rate for those aged 25 to 29 declined to 7.2%, while the rate for individuals aged 30 to 59 fell to 4.1%.
Recent statistics indicate a positive trend in employment, with the youth jobless rate for urban residents aged 16 to 24 decreasing to 16.5% in March 2025, down from 16.9% in February.
This decline in unemployment rates highlights the Chinese government's commitment to enhancing employment opportunities for the youth.
It's noteworthy that China had previously stopped reporting youth unemployment data after it peaked at a record high of 21.3% for the 16-24 age group in June 2023, but resumed publication in December 2023 using a revised methodology.
However, these unemployment statistics do not account for individuals who have stopped looking for work and do not reflect the conditions in rural areas of China.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

Investing.com • Apr 17, 2025
China’s youth jobless rate dips in March to 16.5%
Investing.com • Apr 17, 2025
Urban youth unemployment in China sees a decrease in March