WASHINGTON, July 17, 2026 — China and President Xi Jinping are now viewed more favourably than the United States and President Donald Trump in most countries surveyed around the world, according to a new international study released by the Pew Research Center.

The survey marks a significant shift in global public opinion, with respondents in a majority of the 36 countries and territories surveyed expressing a more positive view of China than the United States. It is the first time in roughly two decades of Pew’s global polling that China has overtaken the United States in overall international favourability.

Confidence in Xi Surpasses Trump

The study also found that more respondents expressed confidence in Chinese President Xi Jinping than in U.S. President Donald Trump.

According to the findings, people in 22 of the surveyed countries said they had greater confidence in Xi’s handling of international affairs than in Trump’s leadership, although confidence in both leaders remained relatively low in many nations.

Researchers said the results represent a reversal of trends seen during previous years, when the United States generally enjoyed stronger international approval ratings than China.

US Reputation Declines Among Allies

Some of the sharpest changes were recorded in countries that have traditionally maintained close relations with the United States.

Canada experienced one of the largest shifts, with favourable views of the United States falling significantly compared with previous surveys, while positive perceptions of China increased substantially.

Several European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom, also reported improved views of China relative to the United States.

Global Events Influenced Public Opinion

Researchers said the survey was conducted between February and May 2026, a period marked by heightened international tensions and major geopolitical developments.

They noted that military conflicts, international trade disputes and changing diplomatic relationships appear to have influenced how people assessed both global powers.

Many respondents viewed China as a more reliable international partner and more likely to contribute to peace and stability, while confidence in the United States declined in several regions.

US Retains Advantage in Personal Freedoms

Despite China’s improved standing, the survey found that the United States continues to be viewed more positively on issues relating to personal freedoms and civil liberties.

However, researchers said that advantage has narrowed considerably over recent years as confidence in U.S. leadership has weakened in many countries.

The report suggests that changing perceptions have been driven not only by improving opinions of China but also by declining international confidence in the United States.

White House Defends Trump’s Record

Responding to the survey, the White House defended President Trump’s foreign policy, arguing that his administration had strengthened global security and reinforced America’s international leadership.

Chinese officials, meanwhile, welcomed the findings, saying they reflected growing international recognition of China’s development and governance achievements.

Changing Global Landscape

Analysts say the survey highlights an evolving international landscape in which perceptions of the world’s two largest economies are becoming increasingly competitive.

While the United States remains influential in global affairs, China’s expanding diplomatic, economic and development initiatives appear to be improving its image in many parts of the world.

Researchers cautioned that public opinion can change over time and that future geopolitical events, economic conditions and international policies will continue to shape how countries view both Beijing and Washington.

The findings underscore a significant shift in global attitudes, suggesting that international confidence is increasingly influenced by perceptions of stability, diplomacy and economic engagement rather than traditional alliances alone.