Shenzhen asks companies to adopt flexible work hours during APEC meetings

Shenzhen is encouraging companies to adopt flexible work arrangements from Nov 16 to 20, the workweek of the APEC meetings, to ease commuting pressure, officials said Thursday.

Companies should arrange remote work based on their operational needs, Hao Shifei, deputy director of the city's human resources and social security bureau, said at a news conference, according to local media reports.

For jobs requiring employees to work on-site, companies should consult staff members on staggered or flexible working hours and encourage the use of public transportation, including buses and the metro, Hao said.

Companies are also encouraged to consider eligible employees' preferences when scheduling paid annual leave, balancing business needs with workers' right to rest, the report said.