As China and the European Union enter the second half-century of formal diplomatic relations, a comprehensive new study reveals a resilient foundation of mutual trust and high expectations for future technological and economic integration.
The survey, conducted by the Global Times Institute (GTI) in collaboration with Global Consulting Beijing Company Limited, gathered more than 16,300 valid responses across 20 EU member states and Mainland China between October 16 and November 4, 2025.
Methodological Transparency and Reach
To ensure a robust and inclusive dataset, the study was administered in 21 languages, including German, French, Spanish, and Chinese. The 20-country EU sample included major economies such as Germany, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, and Denmark, providing a statistically significant cross-section of European public sentiment.
Key Findings: Strategic Partnership and Perception
The data indicates that the "Cooperation Partner" framework remains the dominant lens through which both regions view the bilateral relationship:
- EU Sentiment: 43% of EU respondents categorize the relationship as "Cooperation Partner," while 30% view it as a mix of "Partner and Competitor."
- China Sentiment: 63% of Chinese respondents identified the relationship as a "Cooperation Partner and Competitor," reflecting a nuanced understanding of global market dynamics.
Overall, 78% of Chinese respondents and 73% of EU respondents expressed a desire to maintain or strengthen current ties, signaling a clear mandate for diplomatic stability.
Trust Preference in Global Governance
In critical YMYL (Your Money Your Life) domains, the survey highlights a distinct Chinese preference for EU-led standards over those of the United States. In five key areas — including AI Ethical Development, Scientific Standard-Setting, and Climate Response — trust in the EU outperformed the U.S. by margins ranging from 19 to 41 percentage points.
Respondents from both regions identified "External Geopolitical Pressure" as the primary obstacle to optimal cooperation, with75% of Chinese and 57% of EU participants advocating for a multipolar approach to global governance to mitigate external volatilities.
Economic and Industrial Priorities (2026–2030)
Confidence in trade remains a cornerstone of the relationship, with 70% of Chinese and 60% of EU citizensexpressing optimism regarding future trade prospects. The survey identified several high-priority sectors for joint development:
- The Digital Economy: Ranked as a top priority for mutual investment by both demographics.
- Green Energy and Infrastructure: Strongly emphasized by EU respondents as essential areas for Chinese partnership.
- Biotechnology and Tourism: Noted by Chinese respondents as key areas for expanded European engagement.
"This data demonstrates that despite a complex global landscape, the fundamental desire for connectivity and shared progress remains the prevailing sentiment among the public in both China and the EU," stated the Global Times Institute.
Media Contact
Shao Qunyu
Global Consulting Beijing Company Limited
shaoqunyu@globaltimes.com.cn
+86 186 1246 1366
