China's government seeks to balance AI job impact with employment growth

On October 23, 2026, the Chinese State Council Office released a policy document titled 'Opinions on Adapting to Artificial Intelligence Development and Promoting Employment-Friendly Growth.' The document outlines measures to harness AI's potential to create jobs, enhance traditional roles, and improve employment quality while mitigating job displacement. It emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that aligns technological progress with job creation and social welfare. The policy encourages the development of new business models in AI, including fostering innovation through government-backed funds and supporting open-source communities. It also calls for the creation of new occupations such as digital management specialists and AI engineers, alongside expanding vocational training programs. Additionally, it highlights the importance of integrating AI into traditional industries to generate new employment opportunities in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture. To address potential job losses, the document suggests implementing buffer periods for affected workers and promoting retraining initiatives. It also mandates ongoing research into AI's impact on employment, including dedicated centers and academic studies to monitor trends and inform policy decisions.