There is a growing need for China to create more employment opportunities for graduates, a leading politician has declared.

According to the nation's vice-premier Zhang Dejiang, those leaving higher education institutions are likely to find it increasingly difficult to secure suitable work, Xinhua reports.

He explained that millions of people leaving college require jobs and plans need to be drawn up by organizations and universities to ensure they are able to find positions.

The minister pointed to the need for more knowledge-based and hi-tech roles in China, as well as greater support for recruitment in less-developed parts of the country and budding entrepreneurs.

Mr Zhang's call came two days after a circular was released by the State Council urging local councils to do more to assist graduates in securing employment.

China's National Bureau of Statistics has reported that April saw a year-on-year increase in the total value of industrial production of 13.4 per cent, potentially generating more work for graduates.

Posted by Kate Griffin