The Gig Economy and Labor Protection in China: Evidence from Food Delivery Platforms

Abstract

The gig economy in China has experienced exponential growth, particularly within the food delivery sector, with platforms like Meituan, Ele.me, and Didi becoming dominant players in the labor market. However, this growth has also raised significant concerns about labor protection and workers’ rights. This paper explores the challenges and policy implications surrounding labor governance in China’s platform economy, focusing on the food delivery sector. It examines the economic drivers behind the expansion of gig work, including demand-side factors like urban consumption and technology adoption, as well as supply-side dynamics such as labor surplus and migration. The study highlights key labor protection challenges, such as the ambiguity of employment status, algorithmic management, wage volatility, and lack of social insurance. Through empirical analysis of data from Meituan and Ele.me, as well as case studies from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, the paper evaluates the effectiveness of legal and policy frameworks and the response of government and platforms to address these challenges. The study concludes with policy recommendations for developing a more sustainable and equitable model of platform labor governance that balances innovation with social protection.