Hefei Domestic Service Industry Policy:What are the key updates to Hefei's domestic service industry policy in 2026?
Q: What are the key updates to Hefei's domestic service industry policy in 2026?
A: In 2026, Hefei rolled out a significant refresh of its domestic service industry policy, building on the 2024–2025 pilot reforms. The new measures, announced in the Hefei Domestic Service Industry Quality Improvement Action Plan (2026–2028), focus on three pillars: digitalization, professional certification, and consumer protection. First, the city now mandates that all registered domestic service enterprises (DSEs) integrate with the Hefei Smart Home Service Platform 2.0, which uses AI to match households with certified workers based on real-time ratings and skill tags. Second, the policy introduces a unified Hefei Domestic Worker Star Rating system, requiring at least 40 hours of annual upskilling for workers to maintain a three-star or higher rating. Third, it establishes a mandatory service contract template and a city-backed insurance pool for accidental damage or injury, capped at 500,000 RMB per incident. Subsidies are also offered: qualified DSEs receive up to 100,000 RMB for digital upgrades, and workers get 1,000 RMB training vouchers. These changes aim to formalize the sector, which now employs over 300,000 people in Hefei, and reduce complaints by 30% by 2028.
Q: How do Hefei's 2026 domestic service policies support small and medium-sized enterprises?
A: Hefei's 2026 domestic service policy includes targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recognizing that over 85% of the city's domestic service providers are micro or small businesses. The centerpiece is the Domestic Service SME Empowerment Fund, a 200 million RMB pool offering low-interest loans (capped at 3% annual rate) and matching grants for technology adoption. SMEs with fewer than 50 employees can apply for up to 50% reimbursement on cloud-based scheduling software and background-check systems. Additionally, the policy simplifies business registration by introducing a one-stop online portal that reduces licensing time from 15 days to 3 days. To encourage fair competition, Hefei now prohibits large platforms from imposing exclusivity clauses on SME workers, and it provides free legal aid for contract disputes. Training subsidies are doubled for SMEs—each worker trained in elderly care or infant care earns the company 1,500 RMB. The government also organizes quarterly matchmaking events between SMEs and property management firms to secure bulk contracts. Early data from Q1 2026 shows a 22% increase in new SME registrations compared to the same period in 2025, indicating strong uptake.
Q: What protections and rights does Hefei's 2026 domestic service policy guarantee for workers?
A: The 2026 Hefei domestic service policy significantly strengthens worker protections through three mechanisms: portable benefits, dispute resolution, and career development. First, all domestic workers registered on the city platform are automatically enrolled in a Portable Benefits Account, which accumulates contributions from employers and the government for pension, medical, and unemployment insurance—even if workers switch employers. The policy mandates a minimum hourly wage of 35 RMB for basic cleaning and 45 RMB for skilled care work, adjusted annually for inflation. Second, a dedicated Domestic Service Labor Arbitration Tribunal was established in each of Hefei's four districts, offering free mediation and a 30-day resolution deadline for complaints like wage theft or unsafe conditions. Third, workers gain access to free vocational training at 20 community colleges, with certifications in smart home management, post-partum care, and dementia assistance. Those completing advanced certifications receive a 2,000 RMB bonus and priority job placement. The policy also prohibits live-in requirements without written consent and caps working hours at 10 per day with mandatory rest. These measures aim to reduce turnover, which was 45% in 2024, to under 25% by 2027.
Dialogue about
Common scenarios of "Hefei Domestic Service Industry Policy"
【Policy Analyst】 Good morning, everyone. Today we're discussing Hefei's domestic service industry policy. The city recently introduced new measures to support and regulate this sector. What are your initial thoughts?
【Domestic Service Company Owner】 I think it's a positive step. The policy includes subsidies for training and streamlined licensing, which could help small businesses like mine compete with larger chains.
【Government Official】 Indeed, the goal is to formalize the industry and improve service quality. We've allocated funds for vocational training and established a rating system to build trust with consumers.
【Consumer Advocate】 From a consumer perspective, the rating system is welcome, but we need clear enforcement. How will you ensure companies actually meet the standards?
【Government Official】 We'll conduct regular inspections and impose penalties for non-compliance. The policy also requires companies to carry insurance, which protects both workers and clients.
【Domestic Worker】 As a worker, I'm concerned about my rights. Does the policy address fair wages, working hours, and social security?
【Policy Analyst】 Yes, the policy mandates written contracts and minimum wage standards. It also encourages companies to enroll workers in social insurance programs.
【Domestic Service Company Owner】 But those mandates increase costs. Small businesses might struggle to comply without additional support. Are there tax breaks or grants for us?
【Government Official】 We offer tax deductions for companies that provide training and meet quality standards. There are also low-interest loans available for upgrading equipment and facilities.
【Consumer Advocate】 What about dispute resolution? Consumers often face difficulties when services are poor. Does the policy establish a quick complaint mechanism?
【Government Official】 Yes, we've set up a hotline and an online platform for complaints. Mediation services are provided free of charge, and unresolved cases can be escalated to arbitration.
【Domestic Worker】 That's good, but many workers are migrants and may not know their rights. Will there be awareness campaigns?
【Policy Analyst】 The policy includes funding for outreach programs in communities and online. We also partner with NGOs to educate workers about their rights and responsibilities.
【Domestic Service Company Owner】 I appreciate the support, but how will you ensure that unregistered or informal operators also comply? They often undercut prices and ignore regulations.
【Government Official】 We're increasing enforcement against unlicensed operators. Consumers are encouraged to use registered companies through our public database. We also offer incentives for informal workers to join the formal sector.
【Consumer Advocate】 Will the public database include user reviews and ratings? That would help consumers make informed choices.
【Government Official】 Yes, the platform will feature verified reviews and ratings from clients. Companies can respond to feedback, and repeated bad reviews will trigger investigations.
【Domestic Worker】 What about career development? Many of us see this as a dead-end job. Does the policy create advancement opportunities?
【Policy Analyst】 The policy supports specialized training in areas like elderly care, childcare, and housekeeping management. Certified workers can command higher wages and move into supervisory roles.
【Domestic Service Company Owner】 Overall, I'm optimistic. If implemented well, this policy could professionalize the industry and benefit everyone. Let's work together to make it a success.