China's digital landscape continues to expand rapidly, with internet users surpassing 1.12 billion as of June 2025, according to the latest China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC) report. The milestone reflects a 79.7% national penetration rate, up 1.1 percentage points from late 2024.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Efforts under the 14th Five-Year Plan have prioritized digital inclusivity, bringing 161 million elderly users (52% penetration) and 322 million rural residents (69.2% penetration) online. This progress underscores China's commitment to ensuring all demographics benefit from technological advancements.
Cultural Exports Gain Momentum
Chinese online literature has emerged as a global phenomenon, generating over ¥5 billion ($700 million) in overseas revenue in 2024. With 350 million international readers across 200 countries and regions, Japan led growth with a 180% surge in readership. "This fusion of storytelling and technology creates new cultural pathways," noted Zhang Yijun of the China Audio-Video and Digital Publishing Association.
AI Innovation Accelerates
The report highlights breakthroughs in generative AI, with 346 registered services in the Chinese mainland by March 2025. Domestic AI models now power applications in education, industrial design, and content creation, signaling a transformative shift in productivity across sectors.
