Provinces push for paid annual leave

New policies seek to protect workers' rights, boost domestic consumption

At least seven provincial regions in China have recently issued policies to promote the implementation of paid annual leave, part of broader efforts to protect workers' rights and stimulate domestic consumption.

Yunnan province is the latest to act. On April 30, six provincial departments jointly released a notice on facilitating staggered paid leave for employees to expand domestic demand, boost consumption and sustain stable growth.

The notice emphasizes equal protection of leave rights for all workers, regardless of contract type or position. It encourages employers to establish annual leave management mechanisms, plan leave schedules early in the year and avoid concentrated leave periods that may disrupt operations.