Unveiling China's "Curse of 35": A Brief Analysis of Age Discrimination in the Job Market

By IndraStra Global Editorial Team

Cover Image Attribute: Image by Doms from Pixabay

In China, the employment landscape poses a formidable obstacle for individuals who are in their thirties and mid-career stage. Not only do they face the age-old specter of age discrimination, but they are also confronted with the notorious "Curse of 35 (35的诅咒)." This widely prevalent belief perpetuates the notion that employers are less inclined to hire workers older than 35, favoring younger individuals who are perceived as "less expensive." The unfortunate result is a double-edged sword that severely impacts career prospects, leaving those in their mid-30s with a mortgage to pay or a desire to start a family in a state of despair.

The "Curse of 35": A Cruel Reality 

China's economic recovery after the pandemic has encountered a significant obstacle, leading to widespread discussions about the "Curse of 35" on Chinese online platforms. The origins of this phenomenon remain unclear, and it is difficult to determine its veracity.  The "Curse of 35" adds insult to injury, compounding the challenges faced by those in their mid-30s. It is a self-fulfilling prophecy fueled by biases and stereotypes, which makes it increasingly difficult for individuals to secure employment. This discriminatory belief undermines the prospects of individuals who, at a critical stage in their lives, have financial responsibilities, such as mortgages, to fulfill. Additionally, it stifles their aspirations of starting a family, as the uncertainty of finding stable employment dampens their confidence and ability to plan for the future.

No doubt, age discrimination is a global problem that denies individuals opportunities solely based on their chronological age, disregarding other factors and qualifications. In China, where respect for seniority is traditionally valued, it is disheartening to witness such discrimination against experienced and capable workers. By clinging to the notion that younger individuals are more "cost-effective," employers perpetuate a stereotype devaluing the skills and knowledge acquired through years of dedication and hard work. On top of that, the weakness of the job market and the prevalence of age discrimination, which is not legally prohibited in China, cannot be denied. This unfortunate combination of factors poses a double blow to individuals in their mid-30s who are grappling with important life decisions regarding their careers, marriages, and plans for starting a family. 
According to a Chinese news portal, an official from the National Health Commission (中华人民共和国国家卫生健康委员会) responsible for demographic policies stated that increased competition in the job market is one of the factors leading to the postponement of marriages among young Chinese individuals. However, there are reservations about relying on employment data provided by the Chinese government, as their criteria consider anyone who has worked a mere one hour per week. Despite this low threshold, the urban unemployment rate has remained slightly above 5 percent for a significant portion of this year, which appears more favorable compared to the situation in 2019.
But on the other hand, a different narrative emerges from the numbers reported by corporate entities. In the first quarter of this year, prominent internet companies such as Alibaba, Tencent, and Baidu, known for being some of the best-paying employers in the country, hired approximately 9 percent fewer employees compared to their peak hiring period during the pandemic. These figures are based on financial reports released by the companies. Additionally, several major real estate developers in China experienced substantial reductions in their workforce, ranging from 30 to 70 percent in 2022. These statistics provide a contrasting perspective on the employment landscape compared to the government's reported data.

China and The Kuznets Trap

This unfortunate phenomenon of the "Curse of 35", combined with the broader economic challenges faced by China, has drawn attention to the potential correlation with the Kuznets trap i.e., inverted U. The Kuznets trap theory suggests that countries undergoing rapid economic development may experience a stagnation or regression phase, where income inequality and societal issues hinder further progress. In the case of the Chinese economy, this curse exacerbates this trap, creating additional barriers to economic growth and social well-being.

The Kuznets trap, named after economist Simon Kuznets, posits that during rapid economic development, income inequality tends to worsen before it improves. As China continues to transform into a major global economy, it faces the challenge of managing income disparities and ensuring equitable distribution of wealth. The concentration of wealth in specific sectors and regions exacerbates income inequality, limiting opportunities for social mobility. The "Curse of 35" further compounds this trap by impeding the progress of mid-career professionals who could otherwise contribute to reducing income disparities through their expertise and experience.
The "Curse of 35", combined with the Kuznets trap, has significant implications for China's economic growth and social stability. Age discrimination limits access to a diverse talent pool and prevents the full utilization of skilled individuals in the workforce. This hinders innovation, productivity, and overall economic performance. Furthermore, the exclusion of mid-career professionals from meaningful employment opportunities can lead to satisfaction, reduced consumer spending, and improved social cohesion. These factors can hamper long-term sustainable growth and impede the resolution of income inequality issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the haunting specter of the "Curse of 35"  casts a shadow over middle-aged individuals in China, leaving them grappling with the daunting challenge of an uncertain future. Escaping this age discrimination phenomenon is no easy task, as it continues to pose significant barriers to their career progression and overall well-being. Addressing the "Curse of 35" requires a collective effort from society, employers, and the government to dismantle age-based biases, promote inclusivity, and create an environment where the talents and potential of individuals in their mid-30s can thrive. By doing so, we can offer hope and brighter prospects for middle-aged Chinese citizens, enabling them to confidently face the future with renewed optimism.

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