China's youth unemployment rate climbed to 17.1% in July

A string of dismal indicators for July has analysts betting on the world's No. 2 economy entering a period of prolonged sluggishness going into the second half of the year and beyond, as it grapples with one crisis after another, from a trade war to a prolonged property crisis and cautious consumer confidence.

Around 12 million students graduated this summer, but with even roles in remote rural areas attracting young Chinese with diplomas from top universities, aspiring professionals face the toughest job market in years.