Key facts
- China's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security released draft rules for gig economy workers.
- The draft rules include minimum pay safeguards and limits on algorithmic decision-making.
- Internet platforms will have stronger obligations toward workers under the proposed regulations.
- The rules are China's first ministerial regulation specifically for new forms of employment.
- Public comment on the draft is being accepted until November 8.
China's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security on Thursday unveiled draft regulations designed to provide nationwide protections for workers in the rapidly expanding gig economy. The proposed rules aim to establish minimum pay standards, limit the use of algorithms in decision-making, and impose greater responsibilities on internet platforms for their workers.
The 54-article draft is open for public comment until November 8. If enacted, it would represent China's first ministerial-level regulation specifically addressing the rights of individuals in new employment models, such as food-delivery riders, couriers, ride-hailing drivers, and truck drivers.