Industry by industry, how are China’s workers faring in this difficult economic environment?

On April 8, 2024, Yingguan Industrial (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., located in Shenzhen, Guangdong, issued a notice informing workers that it would halt production from April 10 to October 10, while wages would be paid according to labour law during the furlough. On the second day, Yingguan workers gathered in front of the factory to protest against the company’s use of furlough to avoid paying legally mandated severance.

The government’s plan to raise the retirement age was met with backlash from workers, especially blue-collar migrant workers. It is difficult for migrant workers to find jobs that pay for social security for 15 years–the prerequisite for getting a pension when retired. Workers are worried that the retirement age reform would make things even harder. There is a disparity in social security coverage and benefits between urban workers and migrant workers. Many migrant workers still have to work after the retirement age, with little or no social security. Precarious and informal employment across sectors is a significant reason and will likely continue with the growing gig economy.