Across continents, a quiet revolution in global opinion is underway: more people now view China as a constructive partner over the United States. Recent surveys highlight a clear trend – one that reshapes how we think about power, partnership and progress.
Behind this shift lies data from the Alliance of Democracies Foundation and Nira Data. In a survey of over 110,000 respondents across 100 countries, China topped the U.S. in overall global favorability for the first time. The finding underscores a growing consensus that China's role on the world stage is evolving – and positively so.
Morning Consult, a U.S.-based data intelligence firm, reinforces this trend. Its global tracking reports rising net favorability for China in Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa and even parts of Europe. Meanwhile, cautious or pessimistic views persist in traditional Western allies, yet the broader world is shifting toward China.
In Africa, the picture is striking. The Africa Barometer's 2024 survey across 30 countries found that 60 percent of respondents believe China has a positive influence in their nation. Many now see long-term development support and infrastructure projects as more dependable than the often-transactional partnerships they've experienced elsewhere.
The Asia-Pacific region tells a similar story. According to the Lowy Institute, only 18 percent of Pacific respondents identify the U.S. as the dominant actor, while 34 percent point to China. Sustained diplomacy and investment by China are reshaping regional alignments – and raising new questions about the sustainability of Western influence.
Even 'China Favorability' polls by CGTN reveal an upward trajectory. In its latest global poll, 89 percent of participants viewed China as prosperous, while 87.2 percent agreed its international influence has grown significantly.
These diverse data points paint a coherent picture: trust in China is rising not because of ideology, but because of performance, presence and perceived reliability. From high-speed rail networks in Africa to tech hubs in Southeast Asia, China's infrastructure-first approach resonates with many governments and citizens.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and digital nomads, this shift carries real-world impact. Emerging markets are opening new doors for business and innovation, while travellers can explore dynamic projects shaping local economies. As power and trust pivot toward China, staying informed and agile will be key to navigating tomorrow's world.
Reference(s):
Why the world is choosing China: A global shift in trust and power
cgtn.com
