Global opinion toward the United States and China has become increasingly nuanced, with perceptions varying depending on whether surveys measure favorability, economic influence or confidence in leadership. In a major 2025 international.
For years, the United States enjoyed a stronger global image than China. However, a new survey by the Pew Research Center shows that this trend has changed dramatically. For the first time in nearly two decades of research, more countries now view China more positively than the United States.
The survey, conducted between February and May 2026, covered more than 42,000 people across 35 countries, along with respondents from the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The findings suggest that changing global politics and international relations have played a major role in this shift.
Key Findings from the Pew Survey
According to the report, people in 25 out of 36 surveyed countries and territories now have a more favourable opinion of China than the United States. Countries such as Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom are among those where China’s image has improved significantly.
In contrast, the United States continues to receive stronger public support in only six countries:
- India
- Japan
- South Korea
- Poland
- Israel
- The Philippines
Xi Jinping Rated More Positively Than Donald Trump
The survey also compared public confidence in world leaders. Chinese President Xi Jinping received more favourable ratings than US President Donald Trump in 22 of the 36 surveyed locations, including several major European nations, Canada, and Mexico.
Even so, Pew researchers noted that confidence levels in both leaders remain relatively low in many countries.
Why Has Global Opinion Changed?
Researchers believe several factors have contributed to this major shift.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which had previously damaged China’s international image, has become a less dominant issue in public opinion. At the same time, dissatisfaction with US foreign policy has increased.
Several developments appear to have influenced global attitudes, including:
- Rising tensions between the United States and its traditional allies.
- Ongoing conflicts involving Iran, Gaza, and the Middle East.
- Trade disputes, including tariffs imposed on Canada.
- Controversial statements by President Trump, including comments about Greenland and Canada.
- Growing concerns about America’s role in promoting global peace and stability.
According to Pew researchers, many people now see China as a more reliable international partner compared to previous years.
Canada Shows One of the Biggest Changes
Canada experienced one of the most noticeable shifts in public opinion.
In 2023, 57% of Canadians viewed the United States favourably. By 2026, that figure had dropped sharply to 33%.
Meanwhile, positive views of China in Canada increased from 14% in 2023 to 44% in 2026.
Analysts suggest that trade tensions and political disagreements between Washington and Ottawa contributed to this change.
Europe Also Changes Direction
Several major European countries have also shifted their views in China’s favour. These include:
- France
- Germany
- Spain
- Italy
- Sweden
- The Netherlands
Many respondents now believe China contributes more to global stability than the United States.
Americans Are Also Divided
Public opinion inside the United States has changed as well.
In 2023, Americans viewed their own country much more positively than China. Today, the gap has narrowed considerably, with public perceptions of both nations becoming much closer.
The US Still Leads in Personal Freedoms
Despite the shift in overall global opinion, respondents continue to believe that the United States performs better than China when it comes to protecting personal freedoms and individual rights.
However, the survey notes that this advantage has narrowed compared to previous years.
About the Survey
The Pew Research Center conducted the survey between February and May 2026, interviewing more than 42,000 respondents across 35 countries, along with participants from the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Depending on the country, the survey’s margin of error ranged from 2.3% to 5.5%.
Final Takeaway
The latest Pew survey highlights a significant change in global public opinion. For the first time in nearly 20 years, China enjoys a more favourable international image than the United States across most surveyed countries.
While the US continues to be viewed positively in several key allies such as India, Japan, and Israel, growing geopolitical tensions, foreign policy concerns, and changing international relationships have strengthened China’s global standing. Whether this trend continues will depend on future diplomatic, economic, and political developments around the world.
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