Saturday 31 October
109 briefs · US Eastern time
- China·News
Guangdong launches AI agent application specialist training program, first November batch to enroll 120
Guangdong has launched a 2026 AI agent application specialist training program, with its first batch in November planning to enroll 120 trainees on a first-come basis. Applicants must be Chinese nationals aged 20 or older (born 2006 or earlier); no education requirement applies to this batch. The notice cites Zhaopin data showing AI-related job postings up 455% year on year in the 2026 spring hiring season.
- China·Policy & Law
China's sports administration rules ban hiring serving school teachers for youth sports training, effective November 1
China's General Administration of Sport issued the Code of Conduct for Youth Sports Training, effective November 1, covering after-school sports training for ages 7-18. It bars hiring serving primary, secondary and kindergarten teachers and caps prepayments at 3 months or 60 class hours and RMB 5,000. Classes are limited to 35 students, with at least two coaches when over 10 students.
- Global·People
Adams Street names Rina Kozlowski partner and head of human resources
Adams Street has named Rina Kozlowski as partner and head of human resources.
- China·Research
2026 pension adjustment notice still awaited in early November amid talk of 100-yuan rise on 1,200-yuan pension
NetEase reported on Nov 1 on whether the 2026 pension adjustment notice has been issued, and discussed whether a 1,200-yuan monthly pension could rise by 100 yuan.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Bangladesh to form wage board after garment protests shut factories
Bangladesh is to form a wage board after garment-sector protests shut factories, Reuters reported.
- China·Research
Hangzhou host's 12-hour ride-hailing livestream ends in 15.73 yuan loss, fueling debate on driver pay
A Hangzhou media host who has advocated for ride-hailing drivers livestreamed a 12-hour shift, completing 9 orders worth 139 yuan and ending with a 15.73 yuan loss after rental, charging and meal costs, Sina Finance reported. On one 13.8 yuan fare he received 10.5 yuan, a 23.9% platform cut. Drivers cited commissions, falling fares, depreciation and more drivers.
- Europe·Research
Cyprus unions and employers call for education reform as workers face AI exposure
Unions and employers in Cyprus are calling for education reform as workers face exposure to AI, Cyprus Inform reported.
- Europe·Research
AI raises fears of job losses in Cyprus
Cyprus Mail reports that artificial intelligence is raising fears of job losses in Cyprus.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Commission refuses AMWU majority support determination at Robern Menz Glynde site
The Fair Work Commission refused the AMWU a majority support determination at confectioner Robern Menz's Glynde site in Adelaide. Excluding warehouse workers would have produced a majority of one, but the narrower group was found not to be fairly chosen.
- United States·News
Verizon to cut about 3,000 jobs and divest some retail stores, WSJ reports; files WARN notice for 54 layoffs
Verizon is set to cut about 3,000 jobs and divest some retail stores as part of restructuring, according to a Wall Street Journal report; affected departments and store numbers were not detailed. Separately, a WARN notice covers 54 layoffs across nine Washington State facilities, effective September 18, 2026.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazilian court orders company to pay R$25,000 after worker received half of salary in off-the-books cash
A warehouse operator in Brazil was recorded at R$1,500 on his work card while receiving another R$1,500 in cash envelopes monthly, Super Rádio Tupi reported. After his dismissal he sued, and the labor court ordered the company to pay R$25,000 in retroactive FGTS, vacation and 13th-salary differences. The report says off-the-books pay breaches CLT Articles 457 and 9.
- Asia-Pacific·News
POSCO union to vote this week on tentative wage agreement with management
Unionized workers at POSCO will vote on a tentative wage agreement reached with management, the union said, per Yonhap. The deal includes a 2.6% base pay rise, a one-off payment of 6 million won (US$4,500) and improved benefits. The sides held 30 rounds of talks since June, and the union staged two partial strikes in September.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Commission finds SRG Global unfairly dismissed technician on medical leave after hip replacement
Australia's Fair Work Commission found SRG Global Assets unfairly dismissed a radiography technician who had been on medical leave since January 2024. Deputy President Lake held that the three-month 'temporary absence' period in s.352 does not by itself supply a valid reason for dismissal. The Commission has called for evidence before deciding compensation.
- Asia-Pacific·News
KT trains retired staff as AI instructors for four-week pilot teaching seniors living alone in Seongnam
KT said on the 1st it will start a four-week generative AI course pilot from the 6th with Seongnam's living-alone support center, for about 20 seniors aged 60-69. Classes will be taught by 45 'Silver IT Supporters', mostly KT retirees and former employees, plus nine newly selected retired instructors. KT plans to expand the model nationwide based on the pilot results.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Fair Work Commission approves Kmart application moving Redbank Plains Target staff onto its enterprise agreement
Australia's Fair Work Commission granted Kmart's s.318 application so former Target Redbank Plains staff will work under Kmart's enterprise agreement when the store reopens as a K Home. Kmart offered roles to 5 permanent and 33 casual staff, 23 casuals accepted, and the SDA supported the application.
- United States·Research
Analysis: U.S. job market stuck in low-hiring, low-firing pattern for three years
An analysis published by CAUS says the U.S. labor market has been in a low-hiring, low-firing pattern for three years, describing it as the strangest job market on record.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
Japan MHLW white paper: 67.5% of workers report strong stress; mental-disorder workers' comp claims up 3.3x in a decade
Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare white paper on preventing karoshi, published Oct. 9, shows 67.5% of workers report strong anxiety, worries or stress about work, and 63.0% of workplaces run mental health programs. Workers' compensation claims for mental disorders rose from 1,515 in FY2015 to 4,958 in FY2025, about 3.3 times, while approved cases rose from 472 to 1,082.
- China·Policy & Law
Jiaxing's Xiuzhou district rolls out combined assessment for long-term care insurance; 58 insured people assessed so far
Xiuzhou district in Jiaxing, Zhejiang, has set up a unified assessor pool and process with civil affairs and disability federation bodies for long-term care insurance, allowing one application, joint assessment and mutually recognized results. So far 58 insured people have been assessed this way. Nine people insured elsewhere in the province have received benefits since the provincial cross-region platform launched in August 2025.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Uber driver loses deactivation claim lodged 56 days late after seven rider complaints
Australia's Fair Work Commission dismissed an unfair deactivation claim from an Uber driver of more than eight years because it was lodged 56 days late. It found no exceptional circumstances to extend time, citing seven rider complaints, seven warnings and Uber's compliance with the Deactivation Code.
- China·News
China Road and Bridge says fake job ads are using its Cambodia project
China Road and Bridge Corporation said on the evening of Oct. 31 that false recruitment notices were circulating using its Cambodia project, with high fees allegedly charged. The company says it is general contractor of the Funan Techo integrated water project and has not authorized anyone to issue job notices or posted any on Douyin or other social media.
- Canada & Latin America·News
PSAC calls strike votes for 120,000 federal workers in Canada, voting from Nov. 16
The Public Service Alliance of Canada announced strike votes for more than 120,000 federal workers, running Nov. 16, 2026 to Jan. 22, 2027. The union says talks with the Treasury Board have broken down over wages, remote work and job security; in April the government offered average raises under 1% a year.
- China·Research
Hunan Q3 labor market report: 474,100 job openings, 1.25 openings per job seeker
Hunan's Human Resources Service Center released its Q3 2026 labor market report. Employers offered 474,100 positions (up 4.75% year on year) against 379,200 job seekers (up 2.75%), a ratio of 1.25 openings per seeker. Manufacturing accounted for 39.70% of demand, and skilled-talent shortages persisted, with senior technician openings-per-seeker at 2.87.
- United States·News
Apple reportedly drew up plan to replace about 5,000 AppleCare support workers with AI, then paused it
MacRumors, citing Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, reports Apple had drawn up plans to lay off about 5,000 AppleCare support workers in favor of AI phone and web agents, then put the plan on hold. The report says Apple has still trimmed some middle management roles in recent weeks.
- China·News
Shijiazhuang job fair for graduates draws 300-plus employers offering 8,500-plus skilled posts
A skilled-talent job fair, part of the 2026 national city joint autumn recruitment drive for university graduates, was held on Oct. 31 at Shijiazhuang Vocational Technology College. More than 300 employers recruited on site, offering over 8,500 technical and skilled positions.
- United States·Research
Study shows more Arkansas parents use paid leave when available, and employers benefit from worker retention
A study reported by the El Dorado News-Times shows more Arkansas parents use paid leave when it is available. It also finds employers benefit from improved worker retention.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Recording hours worked is a main question ahead of 40-hour workweek in Guanajuato
El Sol de México reported that recording hours worked is one of the main questions in Guanajuato ahead of the 40-hour workweek.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
San Luis Potosí has five labor inspectors and needs at least 16, Mexico's STPS says
San Luis Potosí has five labor inspectors but needs at least 16, according to Mexico's Labor Ministry (STPS), El Sol de México reported.
- United States·Research
Obamacare premiums set to rise 13%, as KFF poll shows health care affordability remains voter concern
The Post Millennial reports Obamacare premiums are set to rise 13%. A KFF poll found health care affordability remains a major economic concern for voters ahead of the midterm elections.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Lot-et-Garonne metalworking sector makes seniority bonus mandatory, with point value at €5.95
Social Mag reports that in the metalworking sector of France's Lot-et-Garonne department, the seniority bonus becomes mandatory, with the point value set at €5.95.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Chile's 40-hour law: workweek now 42 hours, final cut to 40 hours due April 2028
Chile's 40-hour law has cut the workweek in stages from 45 hours: to 44 on 26 April 2024 and to 42 on 26 April 2026. If the schedule holds, the final reduction to 40 hours comes in April 2028. The law covers only workers hired under the Labour Code, excluding the public sector.
- United States·Research
US jobs pickup may keep Fed on track to hike rates again, Bloomberg reports
Bloomberg reports that a pickup in US jobs may keep the Federal Reserve on track to raise interest rates again.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Brazil's Labor Ministry received 4,305 electoral harassment complaints in three days after runoff
Brazil's Labor Ministry said on Oct. 31 it received 4,305 workplace electoral harassment complaints between Oct. 28 and 30 via a new channel. The Southeast accounted for 2,087, led by São Paulo with 1,325. Labor inspectors have begun inspections to verify the complaints.
- United States·News
Dropbox, Front file notices for 110 San Francisco layoffs; Dropbox plans about 200 cuts worldwide
Front filed notice of 53 permanent layoffs in San Francisco on Oct. 27, and Dropbox filed notice of 57 at its headquarters on Oct. 28, effective Nov. 18. Dropbox separately announced plans to cut about 200 roles worldwide, roughly 9% of staff, with departing employees receiving 16 weeks of pay plus one week per year of service.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Argentine business group MEAB's complaint against judge Ojeda, who halted labor reform, advances at Judicial Council
Per El Destape, a complaint by the Movimiento Empresarial Antibloqueos (MEAB), a group linked to the Milei government, against labor judge Raúl Ojeda, who temporarily halted labor reform, has advanced at Argentina's Council of the Magistracy. The council avoided rejecting it and is now empowered to gather evidence.
- Global·Research
Survey: only 4% of CHROs say organisations very prepared for AI-driven workforce change
The Conference Board's Q3 2026 CHRO Confidence Index found only 4% of U.S. CHROs say their organisations are very prepared for AI-driven workforce change over the next two years. PwC's 2026 Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey of 49,364 workers found access to learning and development fell from 59% to 51% between 2025 and 2026.
- United States·Policy & Law
Washington paid family and medical leave premium rate to rise to 1.2% of gross wages in January 2027
Washington's Paid Family and Medical Leave premium rate is scheduled to rise to 1.2% of gross wages in January 2027, up from 0.4% in 2019, The Center Square reported. Workers and employers share the premium. A Washington Policy Center analyst raised concerns, including possible legislative proposals to lift the premium cap.
- United States·Research
Commentary: U.S. need not choose between foreign AI talent and American workers
A Sociable article says the H-1B debate frames international hiring and domestic employment as competing priorities, becoming a proxy for a larger question about America's economic future. It argues the U.S. does not have to choose between foreign AI talent and American workers.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Indonesia's Manpower Ministry issues 2026 wage subsidy rules: Rp900,000 per worker, salary cap tied to regional minimum wage
Indonesia's Manpower Ministry has issued new 2026 wage subsidy rules providing Rp900,000 per worker, with a salary cap tied to the regional minimum wage, BigGo Finance reported.
- China·Policy & Law
Hebei has not yet issued 2026 retiree basic pension adjustment notice as of 30 October
As of 30 October, Hebei's human resources and finance departments had not jointly issued a formal notice on the 2026 basic pension adjustment for retirees, according to the article, which says it could not be found on official channels. It says circulating online figures are not official. The process requires national-level notice first, then provincial calculation and approval.
- Asia-Pacific·News
BJP launches first trade union at Kolkata airport for contract workers
The BJP inaugurated its first trade union at Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport on Saturday to organise contractual workers. National general secretary Sunil Bansal said similar workers' organisations would be expanded to other sectors. Party leaders said the union would protect workers' rights without disrupting airport operations.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Peru's labor ministry backs Innovathon challenge as 78 students develop AI tools to match workers with jobs
Peru's Ministry of Labor and Employment Promotion (MTPE) backed the Innovathon ULima x Tether challenge, in which 78 students developed AI proposals to identify workers' skills and steer them to jobs and training. Minister Juan Sheput attended the awards, organised by Universidad de Lima and Tether. Chambea won first place.
- Europe·Research
North Rhine-Westphalia unemployment dips slightly, Ruhr region remains weakest
DerWesten reports that unemployment in North Rhine-Westphalia fell slightly, while the Ruhr region remains the weakest area in the state.
- United States·Research
US labor share falls to record low 52.8% in Q2 2026, BLS data show
US labor share fell to 52.8% in the second quarter of 2026, the lowest since BLS records began in 1947, according to its labor productivity and costs report. It was 53.6% in the prior quarter. Fortune reports unemployment rose to 4.2% in September and 29,000 jobs were added, about one-third of economists' projections.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Cuba's Labor Ministry offers training and minimum-wage-level support to idle youths aged 18 to 30
Cuba's Ministry of Labor and Social Security offers a program for 18-to-30-year-olds neither studying nor working, with 1-to-6-month skills courses. Study time counts as service time toward social security, graduates receive an official certificate, and participants get financial support equal to the minimum wage.
- United States·Policy & Law
Immigration lawyers warn unpaid taxes could jeopardise US green card applications under USCIS discretionary policy
A USCIS policy memorandum issued in May treats adjustment of status as a discretionary benefit, requiring officers to weigh positive and negative factors, The Times of India reported. Immigration lawyers warn unpaid taxes, unfiled returns and partial payments under a repayment plan could complicate family- and employment-based green card applications.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
UAE Labour Law Article 28: workers get paid public holidays, with replacement rest day or extra 50% pay for holiday work
Article 28 of the UAE Labour Law gives workers paid leave on all official public holidays set by Cabinet resolution, Legit News reported. If an employer requires work on a holiday, it must grant a full replacement rest day or pay the normal daily wage plus at least 50% of basic wage.
- Middle East & Africa·Policy & Law
Nigerian minister urges National Directorate of Employment to prioritise job creation over training figures
Nigeria's Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, urged the National Directorate of Employment to prioritise actual job creation over training figures. He spoke at the unveiling of the NDE's 2027–2031 five-year strategic plan in Abuja on Friday, represented by Permanent Secretary Kamil Shoretire. He also called for equitable access to skills and entrepreneurship support for women, youth and persons with disabilities.
- United States·Research
US midterms could shape Trump immigration agenda affecting H-1B visas and employment-based green cards for Indians
Livemint reports the November 3 US midterms will determine whether Republicans keep control of Congress. Republicans hold narrow majorities; Democrats need a net gain of four seats in each chamber. A Democratic win could increase scrutiny of proposed visa restrictions but could not automatically reverse restrictions introduced by presidential action.
- Europe·Policy & Law
SIPTU members at Kostal Abbeyfeale vote for strike action over redundancy dispute
SIPTU members at Kostal Ireland's Abbeyfeale plant will begin with a four-hour work stoppage and pickets on 16 November over redundancy terms. Kostal announced plans earlier this year to cut 140 jobs by end-March 2027 as it moves EV onboard charger production to China. SIPTU says 96% of balloted members rejected severance proposals and 85% backed strike action.
- United States·Research
US Secret Service issues workplace safety guidance, says 78% of attacks showed warning signs
The US Secret Service has issued workplace safety guidance, saying 78% of attacks showed warning signs beforehand, according to a report by Bannedbook.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to inaugurate EPFO's 74th Foundation Day
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will inaugurate the 74th Foundation Day of the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) tomorrow, News On AIR reported.
- United States·Policy & Law
Forbes: Several US states require employers to give time off to vote on Election Day, but not all paid
Forbes reports that some US states require employers to provide time off for Election Day voting, though not all of them require the leave to be paid.
- United States·Research
Vanguard research: automatic portability cuts 401(k) cash-outs on small balances to 9% from 50%
Vanguard research found cash-out rates among workers with 401(k) balances under $1,000 fell to about 9% from roughly 50% within 10 months of leaving a job after employers adopted automatic portability. Only 6% of accounts moved through the program had reached new employer plans as of early 2026, due to low plan sponsor participation. Retirement Clearinghouse data show 1.22 million eligible participants awaiting a match.
- Asia-Pacific·News
EPFO to mark 74th Foundation Day in New Delhi with launch of inoperative account settlement and WhatsApp services
India's Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will celebrate its 74th Foundation Day in New Delhi on Sunday, with Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurating the event. Initiatives to be launched include automatic settlement of eligible inoperative EPF accounts with balances up to Rs 1,000 and EPFO services via WhatsApp. Bhavishya Nidhi Awards 2026 will also be presented.
- Europe·Research
Spain's Workers' Statute: right to strike suspends employment contract but does not terminate it
El Blog Salmón explains that Article 45.1.l of Spain's Workers' Statute lists exercising the right to strike as a ground for suspending the employment contract, which is suspended rather than terminated. Workers lose pay and employers suspend social security contributions, but employers cannot penalise legitimate strike action. Unions have called a new protest this autumn.
- China·Policy & Law
China to apply unified national standard for social insurance non-payment penalties from Nov. 1, fines up to 3x, per video report
According to a video from People's Daily-branded outlet Renminbao, from 1 November administrative penalties for unpaid social insurance in China will follow a unified national discretion standard. Employers that still fail to pay after being ordered to may face fines of one to three times the arrears. The programme says agreements to waive social insurance have been ruled invalid by the Supreme People's Court; layoff concerns are commentary.
- United States·Partnership
ADP and PNC Bank announce PNC Payroll by ADP, embedding payroll and HR tools in small business banking
ADP and PNC Bank announced PNC Payroll by ADP on 28 October 2026, embedding ADP's AI-enabled payroll and HR tools in PNC's digital banking platform for small businesses. It covers payroll, HR, time tracking, insurance and retirement, with 24/7 access to ADP payroll experts. No launch date or pricing was announced.
- Global·Research
Remote work can create permanent establishment risk; OECD's new guidance offers more clarity, Tax Adviser says
The Tax Adviser said in an October 31, 2026 article that employees working remotely in a foreign country can give their employer a taxable presence there. It said an update from the OECD offers more clarity.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
EPFO has not further extended ECR filing deadline of October 31, 2026
India's EPFO has not announced any further extension of the ECR filing and contribution deadline for the September 2026 wage month, The Economic Times reported. The deadline was earlier moved from October 15 to October 31. Contributions are calculated on Rs 15,000 for September 1–16 and Rs 25,000 from September 17 under the new wage ceiling.
- United States·Research
University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies publishes white paper on rural AI skills gaps and workforce retention
University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies has published a white paper, "Bridging the Rural AI Skills Gap," by Stella Smith, Ph.D. Drawing on the Career Institute 2026 Career Optimism Index study and other workforce research, it examines the gap between workers building AI skills and employers' readiness to support them. The paper says the disconnect may be especially consequential in rural labor markets.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
India's EPFO plans automatic settlement of inoperative accounts up to ₹1,000 and WhatsApp services
India's Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) plans to introduce automatic settlement of eligible inoperative EPF accounts with balances up to ₹1,000 and to launch WhatsApp services. The initiatives were announced around its 74th Foundation Day in New Delhi on Nov. 1, inaugurated by Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, per a PIB press release.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Japan cannot cut immigration as planned amid labor shortages, Takaichi government seeks ways to fill 20,000 jobs with foreigners
Diari ARA reports that labor shortages in restaurants, hospitals and nursing homes are forcing Prime Minister Takaichi's government to look for loopholes to fill 20,000 jobs with foreign workers, rather than cutting immigration as it wanted.
- United States·Research
KFF projects stand-alone Medicare Part D premiums could rise 50% in 2027, with no $0 plans
A KFF analysis released Oct. 30 projects average stand-alone Medicare Part D premiums will rise 50%, from $34 a month in 2026 to $51 in 2027, if enrollees keep their current plans. About 10.4 million people would pay more, including 4.1 million now in zero-premium plans. No stand-alone plan will have a $0 premium in 2027; open enrollment ends Dec. 7.
- United States·Research
Sponsored piece: UnitedHealth Q3 net profit $4.11B as employer health premiums projected to rise 8–10% in 2027
A sponsored piece by Americans for Limited Government says UnitedHealth Group reported Q3 net profit of $4.11 billion in October, up 75% from $2.35 billion a year earlier. It also cites projected 8–10% increases in employer-sponsored premiums for 2027 and family plans topping $28,000 a year.
- United States·Research
US to release JOLTS, jobless claims and October jobs report this week; economists expect little change in hiring
The AP reports the US Labor Department will release September JOLTS data on Tuesday, weekly jobless claims on Thursday and the October employment report on Friday. Economists expect a slight rise in job openings and little change in hiring from September.
- United States·Research
Forbes lists college majors with the lowest unemployment rates in 2026
Forbes published an article listing the college majors with the lowest unemployment rates in 2026.
- Europe·Policy & Law
France: dismissal over sick-leave absences disrupting business does not in itself presume discrimination
Editions Tissot explains that French employers may terminate an employee on repeated or prolonged sick leave if the absences disrupt the company's operations and require permanent replacement. This ground alone does not presume health-based discrimination; an unjustified dismissal lacks real and serious cause rather than being void.
- China·Research
Shenzhen standards institute says AI office tools cut some tasks from 5–8 days to about 3 hours
At the 2026 Tencent Global Digital Ecosystem Conference, Feng Nianwen of the Shenzhen Institute of Standards and Technology described its use of WeCom and WorkBuddy. He said some tasks fell from 5–8 days to about 3 hours, with up to 100x efficiency gains in individual cases. He cited six changes, including in management methods.
- China·Partnership
Ctrip Business Travel and Tencent Cloud partner to bring AI agent into WorkBuddy
At Tencent's Global Digital Ecosystem Conference on Oct. 30, Ctrip Business Travel and Tencent Cloud announced a strategic partnership. Ctrip's AI agent is connected to WorkBuddy as a connector, letting employees book business travel via chat. Ctrip said booking time falls to 1–2 minutes, about 10 times more efficient.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Malaysian Employers Federation welcomes MSME minimum wage exemption, calls for clear guidelines
The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has welcomed the minimum wage exemption for eligible MSMEs but stressed the need for clear implementation guidelines.
- United States·People
Tiana Carter elevated to Senior Vice President, Talent Mastery at SharkNinja
HR Today reports that Tiana Carter has been elevated to Senior Vice President, Talent Mastery at SharkNinja.
- China·Policy & Law
Hunan issues 15th Five-Year plan on employment and skills training, targeting over 3.25 million new urban jobs by 2030
Hunan's human resources and social security department said it has issued its 15th Five-Year Plan on employment promotion and vocational skills training, with an expected 3.25 million-plus new urban jobs by 2030. The plan includes publishing in-demand occupations, a skilled-worker grading system and pay reference standards, tackling wage arrears and hiring discrimination, and extending protection to delivery riders and ride-hailing drivers.
- United States·Research
Scholar Galinsky: Employees accept 2–3 office days but resent unexplained, inflexible return-to-office mandates
Adam Galinsky of Columbia Business School, writing via Academy of Management Today, notes that more companies are demanding employees return to the office, often five days a week. He says employees accept two to three office days but resent inflexible mandates. He argues most organizations do not explain how the policies benefit employees' productivity or careers.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Guatemala: 1,960 workers placed abroad Jan–Aug via temporary overseas work program, 60% in US
Guatemalan daily Prensa Libre reports 1,960 Guatemalan workers were hired abroad through the Temporary Overseas Employment Program from January to August. The US hired 1,184 (60%), Spain 404 (20%) and Canada 351 (18%), with 19 in Germany and 2 in Italy. The Labor Ministry said it acts as an intermediary and cannot guarantee that all registrants will be hired.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
India's EPFO members can partially withdraw provident fund savings under simplified rules
EPFO members can withdraw up to 100% of eligible funds, equal to 75% of their provident fund balance, with at least 25% kept as minimum balance, Livemint reports. Partial withdrawal provisions were simplified last October by merging 13 provisions into three categories: essential needs, housing and special circumstances. The simplified rules were approved by EPFO's Central Board of Trustees.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
Japan plans caregiver exam study app as foreign candidates' pass rates stay in low 30% range
Japan plans to develop a digital study tool for foreign caregiver candidates as their national exam pass rates stay in the low 30% range and a regulatory grace period nears expiry. Foreign nationals made up 60% of the 8,000 students entering caregiver training schools in fiscal 2025. The ministry has not released a launch date or budget.
- United States·Policy & Law
USCIS ends weekend extension for birthday-based filing deadlines on paper filings received from Oct. 23, 2026
USCIS issued Policy Alert PA-2026-15 on Sept. 23, 2026, reversing a 2023 rule that extended birthday-based filing deadlines falling on weekends or holidays to the next business day. The change applies to paper filings received on or after Oct. 23, 2026, citing a 2025 US Supreme Court ruling, and may affect green card applicants and foreign workers.
- Asia-Pacific·Policy & Law
India's CAQM orders 50% work from home at Delhi-NCR offices from November 5 to 20
India's Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), in an order dated October 30, directed government and private offices in Delhi and five adjoining NCR districts to keep physical attendance to 50% of staff from November 5 to 20. Industrial establishments and essential services where remote work is infeasible are exempt.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Nova Scotia school support workers reach tentative deal; eight CUPE locals must still ratify
School support workers in Nova Scotia reached a tentative deal with the province Friday night and are back at work Monday. The contract is not final until eight separate CUPE locals vote on it; no vote dates had been announced as of Saturday. The deal covers educational program assistants, early childhood educators, custodians, bus drivers and others; CUPE puts membership at over 5,000.
- Canada & Latin America·Policy & Law
Brazilian companies begin planning for end of 6x1 work schedule before full regulation is in place
CBN reports that Brazilian companies have begun planning for the end of the 6x1 work schedule even though the regulation is not yet complete.
- China·Policy & Law
Wuhan's Optics Valley launches overseas expansion service system and hotline covering overseas employment
Optics Valley (Guanggu) in Wuhan released a comprehensive service system for companies going overseas on 30 October and opened a trial-run hotline (027-50766666). Firms can raise issues including overseas employment, export, cross-border e-commerce, overseas investment and trade disputes. An Alibaba.com incubation center in Wuhan was also signed during the event.
- Europe·Policy & Law
In France, working on All Saints' Day is not legally paid double; only 1 May is
Per 20 Minutes, citing the CFDT, the French Labour Code sets no pay premium for ordinary public holidays such as All Saints' Day; only 1 May must be paid double, though collective agreements may offer more. As 1 November 2026 falls on a Sunday, pay is at least doubled on mayor-authorised Sundays, and at least 30% higher in some supermarkets open in the afternoon.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Greece's new pay rules start November 1, requiring salary disclosure before interviews
Greece's new pay rules start on November 1, according to GreekReporter.com. The rules require salary disclosure before job interviews.
- Canada & Latin America·Research
Brazil analysis: amendment ending 6x1 schedule made no exception for sport, raising questions for athletes' special work contracts
An opinion piece in JOTA Info says the amendment that ended Brazil's 6x1 work schedule created no exception for sport. It examines how the change can be reconciled with the Pelé Law, the General Sports Law and the limits set by the Supreme Court's Theme 1046, including the 5x2 schedule and the special sports employment contract.
- China·People
Li Auto has seen 8 core executives depart since August 2025, Autohome article says
An Autohome creator-platform article says eight core Li Auto executives have left since August 2025, across autonomous driving, product, chip and supply chain roles. The latest is chip unit SoC head Qin Dong, 24 days after driving chief Lang Xianpeng left. The article says Li Xiang announced in November 2025 a return to a startup-style mode; its claims on reasons are commentary.
- United States·Policy & Law
Oregon to launch own state health insurance marketplace, Explore Health, in 2027, replacing healthcare.gov
Open enrollment for 2027 individual and family health plans runs from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027. Plans chosen by Dec. 31 take effect Jan. 1, 2027; later enrollments take effect Feb. 1. From 2027 Oregon will run its own marketplace, Explore Health, instead of healthcare.gov.
- Canada & Latin America·News
About 1,200 National Steel Car workers in Hamilton near 12 weeks on strike over safety and wages, union says
About 1,200 workers at National Steel Car in Hamilton, Ontario have been on strike since Aug. 12, nearly 12 weeks. United Steelworkers Local 7135 and workers say key issues include workplace safety and wages. The local's president previously said the company is not even reaching inflation rates on wages.
- Global·News
Nike plans job cuts as sales forecast points to further decline
Nike plans job cuts as its sales forecast points to further decline, NST Online reports.
- Global·Research
2027 global university employability ranking: Tsinghua and Peking in world top 20
A 2027 global university employability ranking places Tsinghua University and Peking University in the world's top 20. Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Zhejiang University rank within the top 60.
- Europe·News
Ex Ilva moves toward shutting Taranto hot area, with furlough for up to 8,622 workers, 6,964 at the site
Acciaierie d'Italia is reportedly ready to carry out the shutdown of the Taranto hot area after the Court of Cassation rejected appeals, with furlough (cassa integrazione) covering up to 8,622 employees, 6,964 of them at the Taranto site. Unions await talks, and supplier firms want wider protections. The report also mentions collective dismissals launched for 40 of 51 permanent managers.
- China·Research
Employers shift from AI-assisted hiring to hiring AI talent, with LLM application experience in demand
A Sohu report says hiring is shifting from using AI to recruit toward recruiting AI talent, with experience applying large language models in real scenarios becoming a must-have requirement.
- Europe·News
ITA Airways opens collective dismissal procedure covering 226 employees
ITA Airways has opened a collective dismissal procedure covering 226 employees: 10 pilots, 90 flight attendants and 126 ground staff. First exits could occur by Dec. 30, 2026, with a possible second group through end-2027 if unions agree. The company cites higher fuel costs and automation and AI; actual numbers will be negotiated with unions.
- United States·Research
US report flags sweeping H-1B restrictions
New India Abroad reports that a US report flags sweeping restrictions on H-1B visas.
- United States·Research
Reuters video: U.S. jobless claims surge to record 3.28 million
A Reuters video headline reports that U.S. jobless claims surged to a record 3.28 million.
- United States·Research
Indian Green Card backlog stretches past decade
New India Abroad reported that the US Green Card backlog for Indian applicants has stretched beyond a decade.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch minister Vijlbrief puts bill banning use of agency workers beyond 36 months out for internet consultation
Dutch Social Affairs and Employment Minister Hans Vijlbrief on Thursday sent a bill into internet consultation that would bar companies from using the same agency worker for more than three years (36 months), De Dagelijkse Standaard reported, citing Rijksoverheid.nl. The outlet criticised the plan as a burden on small businesses.
- China·News
Shanghai Baoshan job fair draws 130 employers with 2,000+ openings; text messages sent to 48,000 young people
A job fair in Shanghai's Baoshan District featured 130 employers and over 2,000 openings, and text messages were sent to 48,000 young people, Shanghai Observer reported.
- China·Policy & Law
Report: minimum pension contribution years to rise from 2030, raising questions over 15-year retirement eligibility
NetEase News reported that the minimum pension contribution period in China is set to rise from 2030, and discussed whether 15 years of contributions will suffice for retirement.
- United States·Policy & Law
Allegheny County, PA approves sweeping paid parental leave requirements, broadens separate paid sick leave entitlement
Seyfarth Shaw reports Allegheny County, Pennsylvania has approved sweeping paid parental leave requirements and broadened a separate paid sick leave entitlement.
- Asia-Pacific·News
Infosys opens 1.1 million sq ft software development block at Pocharam campus in Hyderabad
Infosys on Friday inaugurated a 1.1 million sq ft Software Development Block at its Pocharam Development Centre in Hyderabad, attended by Telangana state ministers. According to an Infosys release, the block adds 10,000 seats and aims to support over 13,000 additional employees under a hybrid working model. The 450-acre campus already houses seven development blocks.
- Asia-Pacific·Research
NDTV Profit: What Indian professionals should watch on H-1B visas and green cards after US midterms
NDTV Profit published an article on what Indian professionals should watch regarding H-1B visas and green cards after the US midterm elections.
- United States·Research
Op-ed: skilled trades still stigmatized as construction adds about 120,000 jobs in a year
A staffing industry veteran with over three decades of experience argues in an op-ed that skilled trades still carry a stigma, worsening shortages. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction added about 120,000 jobs from August 2025 to August 2026, over 71% from nonresidential specialty-trade contractors. Only 48% of U.S. metro areas added construction jobs.
- Canada & Latin America·News
Mexican IMSS workers await labor ministry meeting after SEGOB talks, threaten renewed blockades
Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) workers finished a meeting at the Interior Ministry (SEGOB) and are to be told next week about a meeting at the Labor Ministry (STPS). They said they will keep collecting signatures to remove the union leader. They say blockades will resume if no meeting is granted.
- China·Policy & Law
China's 2026 pension adjustment notice still unpublished as of Oct 31; rural-urban basic pension minimum rises to 163 yuan
As of Oct 31, 2026, China's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and Ministry of Finance had not published the 2026 retiree basic pension adjustment notice, Tencent News reported; the latest national notice, from July 2025, set a 2% overall increase. The 2026 government work report raised the national minimum monthly basic pension for rural and urban residents from 143 yuan to 163 yuan, covering about 180 million people.
- Middle East & Africa·News
About 170 striking Savannah College of Education staff in Ghana decry 19 months without payroll migration
About 170 striking workers from two associations, CETAG and CENTSAG, at Ghana's Savannah College of Education say unresolved issues over pay, recruitment and migration onto the government payroll threaten staff welfare and administration. At a joint press conference in Daboya, they said the college's transition to the public system cannot be considered complete while staff work without government-paid salaries or a clear migration roadmap. The college was established in 2022.
- Global·Research
Financial Times asks whether this is the first clear evidence of AI's impact on the labour market
The Financial Times published an article asking whether there is first clear evidence of AI's impact on the labour market.
- Europe·Policy & Law
Dutch House of Representatives considers amendment to SUWI Act to strengthen labour market infrastructure
The Dutch House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) lists a bill amending the SUWI Act (Wet SUWI) to strengthen labour market infrastructure.
- United States·People
Lululemon names former Nike executive Maggie Gauger chief product officer as two executives to depart
Lululemon announced it has appointed former Nike vice president and Athleta CEO Maggie Gauger as chief product officer and Joseph Godsey as chief operating officer. Chief brand officer Nikki Neuburger and chief supply chain officer Ted Dagnese will leave on Nov. 6, and the company is seeking successors. The changes come under new CEO Heidi O'Neill.
- Europe·News
France vandalism leaves employers with damaged premises; Ius Laboris outlines available government support
A Ius Laboris article says recent violence and vandalism across France has left some employers with damaged premises and disrupted operations, and examines what government support affected employers can access.