Americans have grown more favorable toward China. A new poll released by the Pew Research Center shows that the percentage of Americans with a cold view of China has decreased to 54%, down from 68% in 2021. During the same period, the percentage of Americans with a warm view of China has increased from 11% to 19%, while those with a neutral view have risen from 20% to 27%. These results are based on responses from 1,168 American adults to questions about China in a broader survey conducted from September 14 to 20.
Change in American Sentiment Toward China
Another poll released this week by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs shows that American sentiments toward China have improved from their lowest level in 2024. This poll, conducted from July 10 to 21, indicates that fewer Americans view China as a serious threat. 41% of respondents consider China's territorial ambitions a vital threat to the United States, down from 52% in 2022. Additionally, 57% of Americans say the U.S. should cooperate with China, while 40% believe the U.S. should actively limit China's growing power.
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Economic and Political Contexts
Chong, a political science professor at the National University of Singapore, states that the results of these polls reflect a "return" from negative views during the pandemic toward China. A Pew poll published in July 2020 showed that 73% of Americans viewed China negatively, the highest percentage since tracking began in 2005. However, due to widespread concerns about Beijing's relationship with Russia and tensions over Taiwan, this figure rose to 83% in 2023.
President Donald Trump has also shown signs of a greater inclination toward Beijing, at least in economic terms. Positive language coming from the White House may have contributed to changes in these sentiments. Trump raised tariffs on many Chinese imports to 145% early in his second term and sought to bring production back to the United States. At the same time, the Trump administration increased scrutiny on Chinese visa applications and revoked visas for some Chinese students.
However, Trump has also eased some technology restrictions and resumed trade negotiations. This week, Xi Jinping, the President of China, visited Washington, marking the third in-person meeting of leaders since Trump's return to the presidency.
Meanwhile, public support for direct military intervention in Taiwan has decreased. Studies by the Chicago Council show that only 38% of Americans support the use of U.S. military force to defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack, down from 52% in 2021.
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