China Unveils Workforce Retraining Plan to Boost Rural Employment

China has unveiled a comprehensive plan to retrain its rural workforce, outlining 14 targeted measures to enhance job prospects and support economic stability. The initiative, reported by state broadcaster CCTV on Monday, follows Beijing’s broader push to strengthen its agricultural sector and rural economy amid slowing growth, rising U.S. tensions, and climate challenges.

Jointly issued by several key agencies including the Commerce Ministry and the National Development and Reform Commission, the plan includes expanding vocational education programs and boosting job-seeking services for rural laborers. With nearly 300 million rural migrants currently living in cities—and around 100 million expected to retire within a decade—officials are prioritizing employment stability and workforce quality.

The plan emphasizes improving housing security and expanding access to public services for rural migrants, aiming to accelerate their integration into urban communities. Policymakers believe that better access to basic services and job training will help rural workers adapt to evolving labor market needs.

In addition to rural labor, the initiative also targets college graduates by supporting their employment and entrepreneurial ventures in rural areas. According to Zou Yunhan, deputy director at the National Information Center’s Economic Forecasting Department, the new strategy will help bridge the gap between labor supply and demand, boosting workforce competitiveness and employer satisfaction.

This rural retraining plan aligns with China’s long-term goal of building a modern agricultural powerhouse, announced in April. As Beijing continues to confront economic uncertainty and demographic shifts, strengthening the rural workforce is seen as vital to national growth and social stability.

By improving skill development and supporting equitable access to urban resources, China hopes to create a more inclusive labor market that better meets the needs of both workers and employers.