More people around the world now favour China over the US, Pew study suggests

July 15, 2026

A Pew Research Center study surveying over 42,000 people across 36 countries has found that China is now viewed more favorably than the United States in a majority of surveyed nations for the first time since tracking began in 2002. While confidence remains low in both Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump, Xi receives slightly higher ratings overall, and China is perceived as interfering less in other countries' affairs compared to the US. The shift is particularly dramatic in countries like Spain, Indonesia, Italy, Greece, and Canada, while only six nations—mostly staunch US allies including Poland, Japan, and Israel—still favor America more.

Who is affected

The United States government and its international reputation
China and Chinese President Xi Jinping
US President Donald Trump
Citizens in 36 countries surveyed (over 42,000 respondents)
US allies including Poland, the Philippines, South Korea, India, Japan, and Israel
Countries showing major shifts toward China: Spain, Indonesia, Italy, Greece, Canada, Colombia, Mexico, Malaysia, Nigeria, and Turkey
Middle-income countries globally
Pakistan (90% favorable toward China) and Japan (11% favorable toward China)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are stated in the article. The article reports on survey findings and analysis that have already been completed.

Why it matters

This represents a historic shift in global public opinion, marking the first time since 2002 that China has been viewed more favorably than the US in a majority of surveyed countries. The findings reflect declining American soft power and influence internationally, particularly during Trump's presidency, while China's global standing improves. The perception that the US interferes more in other countries' affairs (75% median) compared to China (45% median) suggests changing views on American foreign policy and could impact diplomatic relationships, alliances, and the balance of global power. This shift in sentiment could affect international cooperation, trade relationships, and geopolitical alignments between these superpowers and other nations.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC