China’s influence is evident in both minds and business, particularly in middle-income countries. A Pew Research Center survey revealed that, on average, 56% of inhabitants in these nations hold a favorable view of China, while 31% have a negative opinion. In contrast, advanced countries show a reversed trend, with 70% harboring an unfavorable view and 24% a positive one. For example, 81% of Thais believe China benefits their economy, while 66% perceive environmental protection and 72% endorse fair treatment of workers.
Similar sentiments resonate in countries like Kenya, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and the Philippines. Southeast Asian nations also express confidence in China’s contribution to peace and stability, with figures like 80% in Thailand and 76% in Malaysia indicating their belief. However, concerns regarding territorial disputes triggered by Beijing are widespread, with 91% of Filipinos, 74% of Malaysians, and 69% of Indians expressing worry.
China’s reputation is gaining traction in the Global South. Economically, the nation is making significant strides, with its direct investments in new businesses in the Global South tripling to 160 billion dollars last year. Additionally, Chinese companies have witnessed a quadrupling of sales in developing nations since 2016, reaching 800 billion dollars. While the United States and Europe remain self-absorbed, China is making its mark on various fronts.
A Gallup poll conducted in 2021 shed light on the aspirations of potential emigrants. Out of the 900 million people surveyed, 18% expressed a desire to settle in the United States, while 8% favored Canada, 7% Germany, 4% the United Kingdom, and France/Spain/Australia. China fails to capture the hearts of those surveyed.