Young people in Europe hold positive and pragmatic views of China, particularly regarding trade, technology and cooperation.
A survey released on Feb. 4th revealed that the overall image of China among European youth is generally positive. More than 80 per cent of respondents hold a good opinion of China.
A French polling firm, CSA and released by the Institute of European Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) conducted the survey. Nearly 20,000 people aged 18 to 35 across 36 European countries took part in the survey.
The survey shows China enjoys a positive image among young Europeans, particularly in Southeastern Europe, Spain and the UK.
It points out that young Europeans have a limited direct experience of China, yet consume its products widely. 40 per cent of young Europeans prioritise Chinese products when given a choice, with higher rates in Eastern Europe (44 per cent). Three Chinese product categories: electronics and technology, toys and games, and textiles and apparel are popular among them.
“China may feel far away, but it is deeply connected to Europe,” said Nataša Radosavljevic-Gaberova. She is now a professor at the School of European Languages and Cultures of Beijing Foreign Studies University. She added that cultural exchange between countries is vital, as it is a shared experience that does not end with a single individual.
Optimistic on Future China-Europe Ties
The survey comes as China–Europe relations show signs of revitalisation and renewed interaction.
From late 2025 to January 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron, Taoiseach of Ireland Micheal Martin, Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited China, discussing trade, climate change and technological innovation. Analysts say these high-level visits underscore the importance of economic cooperation as a stabilising anchor in bilateral relations.
“The data shows that young Europeans are increasingly associating China with infrastructure delivery, technological progress and commercial capacity,” said Yves Del-Fratte, chief executive of CSA.
Feng Zhongping, director of CASS’s Institute of European Studies, said deep trade and investment links have given China–Europe relations resilience. “Europe is reassessing its external economic strategy, and China–Europe relations are at a turning point,” Feng said. “Transforming favourable youth perceptions into practical cooperation is key to ensuring stable and predictable economic ties.”
More than 60 per cent of the respondents described China–Europe relations as cooperative or friendly, with most expressing optimism about the future.
Researchers said the survey is among the largest recent studies of European youth attitudes toward China, providing a benchmark for future trade, education and technology cooperation.
Written by Sha Liu, additional reporting by China Daily and Global Times.
If you liked this article, why not read: China-EU Youth Science Collaboration Begins.
