Approximately 80 percent of Chinese workers are satisfied with their living conditions but more than 70 percent are worried about losing their jobs, according to a survey conducted in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenyang.

The survey was conducted by Beijing-based bimonthly Chat Magazine and a public opinion survey institution in Beijing.

It shows that female workers aged 41 to 50 are the most sensitive group. About 76.4 percent of workers in Shenyang feel anxious about losing their jobs, the highest rate in the three cities.

Shenyang, capital of northeast China's Liaoning Province, is a traditional industry base, where many state-owned enterprises are located.

The survey also showed that workers, in general, have shaken off poverty and are living comfortable lives.

Employees whose monthly salary falls between 500 yuan (US$60) to 1,500 yuan (US$181) accounted for 57.6 percent of those surveyed.

Nearly 64 percent of participants stated they have adequate food and clothing, and 27 percent of workers said they enjoy a better quality of life.

However, the survey also reflected the large income gaps between regions. More than one-fifth of Shenyang workers are paid less than 500 yuan (US$60) per month, while a considerable number of workers in Shanghai and Guangzhou have monthly wages of more than 1,000 yuan (US$121).

Another trend the survey reflected is that workers' educational background is higher than that of 20 years ago and knowledge has more weight in the paying of salaries.

According to the survey, the group of workers aged 20 to 30, generally receive higher education than the elderly, receiving the highest pay of 1,131 yuan (US$137) per month, while the workers aged 41 to 50 earn the lowest, taking home 735 yuan (US$89) per month.

(China Daily October 29, 2001)