The study is based on data from Chinese listed companies and explores the impact of a company’s position in the global value chain (GVC) on internal wage distribution and income inequality. The results show that although the improvement of GVC status in enterprises has increased the average salary level of all employees, it has exacerbated the wage gap between management and grassroots employees, leading to widening income inequality, mainly achieved through rent-sharing mechanisms. In addition, companies with higher human capital can alleviate the income inequality effect caused by the rise of GVC status. Further analysis reveals that the impact of GVC status on internal income inequality in enterprises is heterogeneous regarding property rights, employee bargaining power, and enterprise size. The study provides a new perspective on exploring the income distribution effects of the GVC from a micro perspective, emphasising that enterprises need to pay attention to building a fair and reasonable income distribution structure while being open to others at a high level. It is significant for promoting the construction of micro-mechanisms based on enterprises, fostering social equity and inclusive growth.

This study investigated the caregiving capacity of older Chinese carers and discussed whether the Chinese government needs to offer more support to them. In-depth interviews were conducted with forty older respondents aged sixty years or over caring for frail or sick family members. It was found that most respondents demonstrated firm traditional Chinese values by treating relatives bound by blood or marriage as family members and exhibiting a strong obligation towards them. However, the older carers bore a considerable burden and suffered from deteriorating physical and mental health. The Chinese government needs to introduce a nationwide policy for carers, defining its main support and providing clear guidelines for the local government to tackle the caregiving pressures of older carers. Moreover, the concept of ‘common prosperity’ can be adopted as an empowerment strategy by encouraging poor older carers to seek external support without feeling ashamed or dependent on others.