Will AI replace jobs? Industry leaders in China say artificial intelligence is also creating new roles as technology reshapes the job market.
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global job market. In China, it is also raising new discussions about employment. While some worry that new technologies may replace jobs, many say AI will also create new opportunities.
He Han, chairman of Tianyu Digital Technology and a member of the National Committee of the CPPCC, said the impact of AI on employment should not be viewed simply as job replacement.
“AI will replace some repetitive and routine tasks,” He said in an interview with China News Service. “But more importantly, it will create new jobs with higher value.”
According to He, emerging industries are already generating new positions. The development of embodied intelligence requires robot trainers who teach machines how to perform tasks. The building of intelligent-agent ecosystems calls for multi-agent collaboration architects. Meanwhile, the expansion of computing infrastructure is creating demand for green computing schedulers who help allocate computing resources efficiently.
“These jobs involve advanced technology and offer competitive salaries,” He said. “They are becoming attractive career options for young people.”
AI Reshaping Work and Skills
AI is also changing how people work.
He noted that future workplaces will not simply replace humans with machines. Instead, people will work alongside intelligent systems. Humans will focus on decision-making, innovation and solving complex problems, while machines handle repetitive tasks and precision operations.
He Xiaopeng, chairman and CEO of XPeng Motors and a deputy to the NPC, said the next five years could offer strong opportunities for new graduates.
“In the past, companies often preferred experienced employees,” He told China News Service. “But AI is reshaping many industries. Graduates may adapt faster because they are more open to new technologies and new ways of working.”
Dong Mingzhu, chairwoman of Gree Electric Appliances and also a deputy to the NPC, said AI should be viewed as a tool rather than a replacement for human capability.
“AI can assist production and improve efficiency,” Dong said. “But it cannot replace human judgment.”
She added that AI could help young workers move away from heavy manual tasks and develop stronger technical skills.
Demand for AI Skills Rising
Technological change is already affecting hiring trends.
After the Spring Festival holiday, recruitment activities resumed across China. As technological innovation and industrial upgrading continue, companies are increasingly seeking workers with interdisciplinary and technical skills.
At the city’s largest offline job fair after the holiday, the number of AI-related positions increased by more than 10 per cent compared with the previous year.
In Shenzhen, demand for AI-related talent has also been strong. Positions such as algorithm engineers and electronic engineers can offer annual salaries of up to 500,000 yuan (around £55,000).
For many job seekers, AI skills are becoming essential.
“AI capabilities are no longer limited to technical roles,” said Lu Xin, a 24-year-old job seeker. “They are spreading to areas such as product development, operations and creative work.”
Meanwhile, the Chinese government is taking steps to address the impact of new technologies on employment.
This year’s government work report calls for improving policies that support employment and entrepreneurship in response to the development of artificial intelligence.
Wang Xiaoping, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, said authorities are studying policies to better use AI to create new jobs and upgrade traditional roles, while promoting inclusive development that balances technological progress with improvements in people’s livelihoods.
Written by Ronnie Yu.
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