24 November 2025 – There is no doubt about China’s rise to the status of a global powerhouse, whether framed positively or not. China has emerged as the world’s largest economy in terms of purchasing power parity, and the second largest by nominal GDP. It is considered the world’s largest industrial, manufacturing and trading nation, with the world’s largest middle class and the eradication of extreme poverty.
A new report to The Club of Rome, Understanding China: Governance, Socio-Economics, Global Influence, offers a balanced and objective perspective into China’s meteoric rise from the late 1970s. The book lays out the model of governance in detail at the national, provincial and local levels, which provides a strong basis for understanding current dynamics, along with its strengths and weaknesses.
The book outlines the trajectory of China’s development and the massive changes which have resulted within. It also outlines the implications the rise of China has and will have for the rest of the world in the future. It emphasises that the Chinese model and principles need not be adopted wholesale but serve as a valuable test case for countries seeking to pursue a similar developmental trajectory, especially with the commitment to lift hundreds of millions out of poverty.
“The economic and technological rise of China has proven to be both staggering in pace and inexorable in trajectory. This neither calls for mindless optimism and zealous embracing of all that the country has to offer,” commented Chandran Nair, Founder, Global Institute for Tomorrow, member of the Club of Rome and lead author. “The Chinese government is steered by a deeply rooted and historically grounded devotion towards its people – one could even term this as a point of foundational fixation.”
The book proposes seven working principles for the international community’s engagement with China, which can shape sustainable, convivial and successful relations. Insights are drawn from both Chinese and international sources and build on the work of the Chinese Association of the Club of Rome (which was also founded by the report authors).
“There is more in common between China and other countries than separates them. We are all confronted by similar challenges. The Chinese government has advanced the notion of a “community of shared future for mankind” in full cognisance we are in an era of globalisation, therefore national interests cannot be carved out and compartmentalised in narrow silos,” adds Nair.
Through the insights into China’s internal strengths and challenges, its global influence and its unique governance model, the book encourages respectful dialogue and informed engagement. It is an essential resource for policymakers, business leaders, academics and students seeking clarity on China’s past, present and future.
“We are well aware of the difficulties of writing a book about China that satisfies the diverse interests of the intended global audience. At all times the commitment has been to seek balance and to remain impartial,” commented Jorgen Randers, Professor Emeritus, BI Norwegian Business School and member of the Club of Rome.
The book is a result of a deepening understanding of the role China plays globally and its publication follows a conference dedicated to Earth humanity reconciliation that was held in China from 5-7 November.
Order the book from Routledge
