Favorable opinions of China rose in 15 of 25 countries surveyed this spring, marking the first widespread uptick since 2020, Pew Research Center reports. Still, medians show 54% hold unfavorable views, and just 25% trust President Xi on world affairs. Perceptions improved most in middle-income nations, where China often earns better marks than in wealthier countries.
A median 41% now see China as the world’s top economy — roughly tied with the U.S. at 39% — but most still prefer stronger economic ties with Washington. In some middle-income countries, Chinese investment is viewed more positively than U.S. investment, even as debt, military power, and human rights remain concerns.
The U.S. is seen as the top ally in several Latin American nations, but in places like South Africa and Indonesia, China claims that spot. Notably, the U.S., not China, is more often named as a top threat in multiple middle-income countries.
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