China's Economic Influence Noted by Majority in 35 Countries, Pew Survey Shows

A Pew Research Center survey of 35 countries, published last week, highlights China’s significant economic influence, with perceptions varying by income level. The survey covers Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, and the United States. Conducted from January 5 to May 21, the survey includes responses from 44,166 people.

In middle-income nations, 47% view China’s influence positively, compared to 29% negatively. Conversely, 57% in high-income countries see it negatively, with only 28% viewing it positively. Americans are particularly critical, with about 75% perceiving China’s economic impact as negative. Since 2019, negativity towards China’s influence has grown in countries like Argentina, Brazil, Israel, Japan, South Korea, and Tunisia. Despite some appreciation for Chinese firms in middle-income countries, concerns about environmental impact and worker treatment remain. In the Asia-Pacific, territorial disputes involving China cause significant concern, especially in the Philippines. Views on China’s role in global peace and stability are divided, with Southeast Asian countries more favorable compared to critical perspectives from Australia, Japan, and South Korea.