Preferential policies for workers in place

A guideline to improve how skilled workers are treated was jointly released by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, aimed at training more highly skilled workers with better benefits and environment, the People's Daily reported.

The guideline sets forth a wide spectrum of indications in many regards, including training, recruitment, incentives, and security, to beef up workers' sense of fulfillment, initiative, and creativity.

Increasing the number of skilled workers is an urgent need. Statistics show that the number of skilled and high-skilled workers is 165 million and 47 million, among the 770 million total workforce, much lower than the global average, said Tang Tao, vice-minister of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.

With the guideline issued, improving the treatment for skilled workers ascended to the top of the government’s agenda. Training skilled workers is an absolute necessity for high-quality development, Tang said.

According to the document, the value of workers' skills will be reflected in their wages, and enterprises are encouraged to set up a subsidy system for skilled workers.

The measures will play a big role in improving how workers are treated, said Yan Jinghua, deputy-director of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions.

There are also related statements in the latest Government Work Report and policies regarding the "Made in China 2025" plan, calling for the craftsmanship spirit and an all-around enhancement of product quality.

High-quality growth needs the motivation of skilled workers, and better work skills in particular, Tang said.