China is a sovereign nation in East Asia officially known as the People’s Republic of China. It is the world’s most populous country and the fourth largest by area, exerting major influence on global politics, economics, culture, and technology. China’s rapid modernization since the late 20th century has made it a central player in international affairs.
Key facts
- Capital: Beijing
- Population: ~1.4 billion (2025 est.)
- Area: 9.6 million sq km
- Government: Single-party socialist republic under the Chinese Communist Party
- Currency: Renminbi (yuan, CNY)
- President: Xi Jinping (2025)
Geography and environment
China stretches from the Himalayas to the Pacific Ocean, encompassing deserts, plateaus, and fertile plains. Its terrain descends in tiers from the Tibetan Plateau to eastern coastal lowlands. The Yangtze River and Yellow River sustain major population centers. The country’s climate ranges from subarctic in the north to tropical in the south, supporting exceptional biodiversity including the giant panda and Chinese alligator.
History and politics
With more than 4,000 years of recorded history, China developed one of the world’s earliest civilizations. Imperial dynasties ruled until 1912, when the Qing Dynasty fell and the republic era began. The Chinese Communist Party established the People’s Republic in 1949. The state follows a one-party system led by the CCP, with the National People’s Congress as its legislature.
Economy and development
Since reforms launched in 1978 under Deng Xiaoping, China’s economy has expanded at an average annual rate near 9%, lifting hundreds of millions from poverty. It is now classified as an upper-middle-income economy and the world’s second largest GDP by nominal terms. Key industries include manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and services. Current policy emphasizes “high-quality development,” innovation, and carbon neutrality before 2060.
Society and culture
About 91% of citizens are Han Chinese, alongside 55 officially recognized minority groups. Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Cultural heritage spans Confucian philosophy, calligraphy, poetry, cuisine, and festivals such as the Spring Festival. Rapid urbanization—nearly 60% of residents now live in cities—continues to reshape lifestyles and economic patterns.
