People

China is a multiethnic society and the people are industrious and hospitable. Mandarin is the official language of China. Learn all these facts and more about China here.

Population
China is the most populous country in the world, with more than 1.3 billion people. In accordance with the census in 2004, the ratio of the sexes is about 51.5% male and 48.5% female. Approximate 60% of Chinese population resides in rural areas while 40% of them live in cities.

Multiethnic Society
China is a multiethnic society consisting of 56 ethnic groups. The most populous among these ethnic groups is Han who form about 91% of China's total population, while the rest of the Chinese belong to other ethnic groups. Most of these ethnic groups live together over vast areas while there are some who live in individual concentrated communities in small areas. The ethnic minorities are widely distributed throughout the country. Yunnan Province has the most number of ethnic minorities. Chinese society is comprised of minorities like Han, Tibetan, Uigur, Mongolian and Hui.

Chinese People
The Chinese are hardworking, hospitable and conservative people. Chinese people in larger cities enjoy a high standard of living, with greatly improved facilities for education and health. It could be said that the quality of life has improved in entire nation. Chinese economy is rapidly growing but its fruits would take some time to reach the lower strata of society. There has been improvement in the status of women. Chinese society has become more open and accommodating in recent times. Chinese people are willing to accept new ideas while maintaining traditional Chinese virtues.

Language
Mandarin, the standard Chinese, is one of the six official languages used by the United Nations. It is also the official language of China. Putonghua, standard form of modern Chinese, is the common language of all modern Han nationality people.