90% of Americans Say China Is a Competitor or Enemy

US Pew Research Center Survey
Low Trust in President Xi Jinping Also Observed

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] It has been revealed that 9 out of 10 Americans perceive China as a competitor or an adversary. Negative perceptions regarding human rights issues, economic frictions, and political systems have also increased.

According to a survey released on the 4th (local time) by the U.S. polling organization Pew Research Center, 55% of Americans view China as a competitor, and 34% see it as an adversary. Only 9% regarded China as a partner.

In particular, among Republican supporters, a majority (53%) considered China an adversary. Responses of 'competitor' and 'partner' were 43% and 4%, respectively. Democratic supporters generally viewed China as a competitor. The response 'competitor' was 65%, more than three times the 20% who saw China as an adversary. The 'partner' response was also in double digits at 14%.

When asked, "What comes to mind when you think of China?" the most common response was "human rights" at 20%. Some respondents pointed out that China has recently been strengthening control over Hong Kong, criticizing it for "destroying freedom of expression."

Following human rights were economy (19%), political system (17%), threat (13%), and U.S.-China relations (12%). 64% of respondents viewed the economic relationship between the two countries as "somewhat or very bad."

Amid ongoing clashes since last year over pandemic responsibility between the U.S. and China, the response "COVID-19" was at 7%. Responses such as population (5%), pollution (4%), and people (3%) remained in single digits.

82% of Americans do not trust Chinese President Xi Jinping. The response "trust" was 15%. The Pew Research Center explained, "While 60% responded that President Joe Biden would handle international issues well, only 53% believed he would effectively address China-related issues," adding, "Relations with China are seen as a more difficult issue than climate problems, strengthening alliances, or international trade."