China expands social security to 200M gig workers, but challenges remain despite pilot programs.

China is expanding social security coverage to over 200 million flexible workers, with platforms like Meituan launching pilot programs offering insurance subsidies to delivery workers who meet work and income thresholds. Despite early enrollment gains, challenges persist due to concerns over reduced pay, job instability, and fragmented contributions. Experts urge stronger policies, better job quality, and incentives like tax reductions to boost participation, as the State Council prepares a report on protecting gig workers’ rights for review by the National People’s Congress.