China, as the world’s most populous nation, has a population of over 1.3 billion, or 22 percent of the global total.
Out of every five persons living in this world, one is a Chinese. East China has the highest population density and this is especially so in coastal and plain areas, where there are 500—600 residents per square km. The West China has the lowest population density, averaging no more 50 residents per square km. More than 300 million Chinese live in urban areas and more than 800 million are rural residents. Planned parenthood has been a state policy since the 1970s, with a view to keeping the population in size and increasing its quality.

Ethnic Scene

     A multiethnic country, China is home to 56 ethnic peoples: Han Manchu, Mongol, Hui, Tibetan, Uygur, Miao, Yi, Zhuang, Buyi, Koran, Dong, Yao, Bai, Tujia, Hani, Kazakh, Dai, Li, Lisu, Va, She, Gaoshan, Lahu, Shui, Dongxiang, Naxi, Jingpo, Khalkhas, Tu, Daur, Mulao, Qiang, Bulang, Sala, Maonan, Gelao, Sibo, Achang, Pumi, Tajik, Nu, Uzbek, Russian, Owenk, Deang, Paoan, Yugur, Jing, Tatar, Dulong, Olunchun, Hezhen, Moinba, Luoba and Jino. The Hans account for 92 % of the total population, while the other 55 ethnic groups only take up 8%, therefore they are called minorities. But all the ethnic groups are equal regardless of population size. The state protects the lawful rights and interests of ethnic minorities, maintains and promotes equality, unity and mutual help among them. Ethnic autonomy has been realized in regions, prefectures, counties and townships where minority peoples live in compact communities.

     Geographically speaking, the Hans are all over the country, but most of them are in east and central China. Most minorities are living in southwest, northwest and northeast China, but with the economic development, the minority peoples are normally mingling with Han people.