The Taiwan Mainland Affairs Council stated that the youth unemployment rate in mainland China remains high, advising caution for those considering studying or working there. The council also reminded the public to carefully assess the necessity of traveling to China.
According to statistics from the Chinese National Bureau of Statistics, the youth unemployment rate in mainland China reached 17.1% in July this year (excluding 16 to 24-year-old students), marking the highest point so far this year. The continuous rise in youth unemployment in China has forced many recent university graduates to make tough decisions, with some settling for low-paying jobs and others returning to their hometowns to rely on their parents’ retirement funds and savings to get by.
The Taiwan Mainland Affairs Council warned that the entrepreneurial situation in mainland China is becoming increasingly severe, and finding employment after graduation is not as easy as one might imagine. Particularly this year, an estimated 11.79 million university students are expected to graduate in China, intensifying the already tight job market competition. Young students considering studying or working in China should conduct a thorough risk assessment and can refer to the information provided in the Council’s “Taiwanese Student Zone”.
In addition, the Taiwan Mainland Affairs Council pointed out that China has been continuously strengthening legislation in the national security field, expanding jurisdiction and applicable areas through legislation, leaving room for law enforcement interpretation. On June 21 of this year, China issued the “22 Articles for Punishing Taiwan Independence”, with the most severe punishment being the death penalty. Some actions or speech by Taiwanese individuals could be arbitrarily classified as advocating for Taiwan independence, splitting the country, or inciting separatism, increasing the personal freedom risks for Taiwanese citizens traveling to China.
The Taiwan Mainland Affairs Council reiterated the importance for Taiwanese citizens to carefully consider the necessity of traveling to China. If there is indeed a need to travel to mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macau, individuals are advised to first register contact information in the Council’s “Dynamic Registration System for People Traveling to Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau”. In case of emergencies, the government can provide immediate assistance.
Let’s ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals considering traveling to mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macau.