China’s unemployment rate among people aged 16 to 24, excluding students, fell to 15.6 per cent in May, marking its lowest level in 11 months, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics of China on Monday.

The figure reflects a continued improvement in the country’s youth employment market amid broader efforts to stabilise jobs and support economic growth.

Declines Across Other Age Groups

The unemployment rate for those aged 25 to 29 also edged lower, falling to 7.2 per cent in May from 7.4 per cent in April.

Meanwhile, joblessness among the 30 to 59 age group declined to 4.1 per cent, compared with 4.2 per cent a month earlier.

Signs of Labour Market Improvement

The latest data suggest a gradual easing of employment pressures across multiple age groups, particularly among younger workers who have faced persistent challenges in recent years due to a slowing economy, weak private-sector hiring and structural changes in the labour market.

While youth unemployment remains significantly higher than the national average, May’s figures indicate continued progress from the elevated levels seen last year.

Focus on Employment Stability

Chinese authorities have repeatedly identified employment as a key economic priority in 2026, introducing measures aimed at supporting hiring in manufacturing, services, technology sectors and emerging industries.

The latest figures come as Beijing seeks to maintain labour market stability while navigating a broader economic transition centred on innovation, advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence-driven growth.

(with inputs from Reuters)