China’s Image Improves as U.S. Fades, Pew Survey Finds

Global perceptions of China have improved modestly over the past year while views of the United States have deteriorated, according to a Pew Research Center survey of more than 30,000 adults in 25 countries conducted between 8 January and 26 April. The study, released on 15 July, shows a median 36 percent of respondents now hold a favourable view of China, up five percentage points from 2024, while unfavourable opinions fell seven points to 54 percent. By contrast, the share viewing the U.S. positively slipped to 49 percent, five points lower than last year. The gap is also narrowing on perceptions of economic leadership. A median 41 percent of those surveyed identify China as the world’s top economy, an eight-point increase that edges out the 39 percent who name the United States. The shift is most pronounced in Europe, where Germany, Italy and Spain now regard China as the leading economic power, and in several middle-income nations where Beijing’s investments are visible. Sentiment toward China remains sharply divided by income level and region. Favourability is highest in Nigeria (81 percent) and Kenya (74 percent), while Japan records the strongest negative view, with 86 percent unfavourable. Confidence in President Xi Jinping to “do the right thing regarding world affairs” stands at a median 25 percent—higher than last year but still well below trust in U.S. leadership just two years ago. Pew researchers suggest the improvement in China’s image is boosted by Beijing’s outreach to developing countries and by dissatisfaction abroad with President Donald Trump’s renewed tariff policies.