BEIJING, November 18, 2025 – China’s youth unemployment rate for individuals aged 16 to 24, excluding college students, declined slightly to 17.3% in October, down from 17.7% in September, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The modest decrease reflects a gradual improvement in employment conditions for young people in China, though the rate remains high compared to other age groups. For the 25-to-29-year-old cohort, also excluding students, the unemployment rate remained steady at 7.2%, showing little change month-on-month. Among the 30-to-59 age group, the jobless rate fell slightly to 3.8%, compared with 3.9% in September.

Context Behind China’s Youth Unemployment

Youth unemployment in China has been a growing concern for policymakers and economists, as millions of new entrants join the labor market each year. Factors contributing to elevated youth joblessness include:

• Intense competition for entry-level jobs
• Mismatch between academic training and industry demand
• Slower job creation in traditional sectors
• Economic pressures amid global trade uncertainty

Despite these challenges, the slight drop in October suggests early signs of recovery, potentially supported by government initiatives to promote vocational training, entrepreneurship, and digital economy opportunities for young workers.

Broader Implications

High youth unemployment carries significant social and economic implications. Persistent joblessness can affect:

• Consumer spending among young people
• Long-term career development and skill accumulation
• Social stability and confidence in labor market policies

Policymakers have emphasized the need to target youth employment programs, expand internships and apprenticeship schemes, and encourage private sector participation in hiring young talent.

Outlook

While the October figure shows improvement, China’s youth employment situation remains a key focus for both government authorities and businesses seeking to align workforce development with economic growth. Analysts expect that measures such as support for start-ups, vocational training programs, and digital economy initiatives will play a central role in reducing youth unemployment in the coming months.

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Key Takeaways

• Youth unemployment (16–24) dropped to 17.3% in October, down from 17.7% in September.
• 25–29 age group unemployment remained at 7.2%, while 30–59 group fell slightly to 3.8%.
• Youth unemployment remains a significant economic and social challenge.
• Government initiatives focus on training, start-ups, and digital economy opportunities.
• October’s data signals a modest improvement in employment conditions for young workers.