China’s domestic service industry, employing over 30 million people, is transitioning from informal, relationship-based arrangements to a regulated sector under 19 new government measures. These policies aim to standardize the industry by improving skill training, establishing credit verification systems, and mandating clearer service contracts. The discussion highlights persistent tensions between employers and workers regarding working hours, privacy concerns over home surveillance, and liability for property damage or personal injury. While agencies currently act as inconsistent intermediaries, the proposed measures seek to foster trust through better insurance products and professional certification. Ultimately, the shift reflects a broader effort to professionalize a massive, essential workforce, balancing the need for safety and accountability with the deeply personal nature of domestic labor.
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