China adds 11 new occupations and 23 job types as digital, green sectors reshape job market

A robot attracts a child at the HICOOL 2026 Global Entrepreneur Summit in Beijing, Aug. 27, 2026. (Photo/China News Service)

(ECNS) -- China officially recognized 11 new occupations and 23 new types of jobs on Wednesday, as the country's expanding digital and green economies continue to create new employment opportunities.

Five of the 11 newly recognized occupations are in digital fields, while three are related to the green economy, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.

The introduction of new occupations and job categories reflects the latest developments in the economy and shifting demand in the labour market, said Li Changan, a professor at the School of Government at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing.

It also highlights how the development of China's new quality productive forces is creating fresh demand for workers, Li said.

According to Li, these productive forces are being driven by two major areas. The first is the innovation economy, including the digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI), where advances in AI and other technologies are reshaping economic and social activity while giving rise to new occupations and job opportunities.

The second is the green economy, which has emerged as an important driver of new quality productive forces and is creating growing demand for workers in emerging fields, he said.

The occupation of elderly care service provider has also attracted attention. Although it was formally added to China's national occupational catalogue only last year, similar services had already existed for many years.

Its inclusion in the catalogue is expected to make the occupation more attractive while helping to standardize and professionalize care services for older people, according to Li.

(By Zhang Dongfang)