China to Create a National Database of Expat Workers
By Lucas dos Santos
Voices within the Chinese government have been urging for a smoother system to match foreign applicants with local jobs, as China seeks to attract further overseas talent.
Zhang Jianguo, of the State Administration of Foreign Expert Affairs, is spearheading an initiative by which an online database would be set up to ease contact between employers and job-seekers. As Zhang puts it, demand and supply are high and continuously increasing — in 2011-2015, 30 percent more foreign professionals visited China than in 2006-2010 — but most firms just “can’t find the right candidates.” This system would, ideally, “bridge this information gap.”
The digital platform, according to Zhang, would include all foreign workers in the country, with information such as their name, city of residence, area of expertise and nationality.
Zhang also encouraged fostering a “friendlier” environment, and providing additional incentives for foreign labor, such as a more streamlined visa application process.
The need for said talent is as high as ever, with domestic firms seeking experienced foreign specialists.
No dates or framework have been announced, but presumably this project would be carried out by Zhang’s own agency.
[Image via Katana Media, h/t The Nanfang]
For Infographic: Breaking down China's expat population, click "Read more" below.