China, officially the People's Republic of China (PRC) has a population of around 1.4 billion people. With a land area of approximately 9.6 million km2, it is the world's third largest country. China is officially divided into 23 provinces (the 23rd being Taiwan which is not under PRC control), five autonomous regions, four direct-controlled municipalities and two special administrative regions (Hong Kong and Macau). China is nominally a unitary one-party socialist republic ruled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It has the fastest growing economy, is the second wealthiest nation in the world and is the largest manufacturer and exporter. Many countries rely on China for goods that cannot be sourced elsewhere. Chinese industries are rapidly expanding and increasing competition in the areas of electronics, renewable energy, advanced nuclear energy, big data and supercomputers, AI, robotics, space technology, and e-commerce. 

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is the regular armed forces of the PRC and the armed wing of the CCP. China has the largest armed forces in the world by active duty military personnel, with about 2 million active soldiers. It is ranked 3rd in military power behind the USA and Russia and has a large defence budget. China is rapidly gaining influence in the Pacific region and has laid claim to large areas of the South China Sea. While Australia regards China’s expanding military capabilities and influence with caution, both countries have endeavoured to forge a positive relationship where differences can be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue.