Story perspectives

China's Soft Power Struggles Amid Declining Mandarin Interest

12/21/2025

Summary

Story summary

In 2025, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that China is expanding its soft-power push, including Chinese-made dolls intended to improve Beijing's image amid U.S. distrust.
Interest in learning Mandarin abroad is declining after years of growth, attributed to China's economic and image challenges.
Despite this, global audiences remain enthusiastic about Chinese streaming shows, and experts say high-quality productions could positively influence China’s reputation worldwide.

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Story summary

In 2025, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that China is expanding its soft-power push, including Chinese-made dolls intended to improve Beijing's image amid U.S. distrust.
Interest in learning Mandarin abroad is declining after years of growth, attributed to China's economic and image challenges.
Despite this, global audiences remain enthusiastic about Chinese streaming shows, and experts say high-quality productions could positively influence China’s reputation worldwide.