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January 6, 2025 | 07:59 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Chinese immigrants have undeniably played a vital role in shaping the cultural, social, and economic landscape of several nations across the globe.
Among the countries with the most Chinese immigrants, the close ties of historical, political, and economic ties between China and some Southeast Asia countries fostered the growth of large Chinese populations within them.
5 Countries with the Most Chinese Immigrants
Based on Visual Capitalist, Indonesia houses the highest number of overseas Chinese population due to the country’s close ties to China.
1. Indonesia - 11.2 million
Indonesia tops the list of countries with the most Chinese immigrants, totaling 11.2 million. According to Minority Rights, most of these immigrants trace their roots to the Fujian and Guangdong provinces in China. The Chinese have had a presence in Indonesia since the late 13th century, initially arriving as traders.
By the time Indonesia came under Dutch rule, the Chinese community had become vital intermediaries between the colonial administration and the local Javanese population. Chinese immigrants have continued to arrive in Indonesia for economic and political reasons, particularly in sectors such as trade, banking, and manufacturing.
2. Thailand - 7 million
Thailand comes in second place, with around 7 million Chinese immigrants, comprising roughly 10% to 14% of the Thai population. The Chinese have had a long history in Thailand, dating back to the 13th century, with early migrants forming small communities.
By the 16th century, Chinese settlers had established significant communities in cities like Ayutthaya and Pattani. Over time, they became involved in a wide range of economic activities, including trade, labor, mining, construction, and plantation work.
3. Malaysia - 6.9 million
Malaysia is home to one of the world’s largest Chinese populations, with an estimated 6.9 million Chinese immigrants. The Chinese began arriving in Malaysia (formerly Malaya) in the 15th century, initially for trade in the strategic port of Malacca.
By then, the Chinese population in Malaysia grew as more immigrants arrived seeking opportunities in mining, labor, business, and also education. The main appeal of Malaysia is known to be the English-speaking environment and cost-effective living.
4. United States - 5.8 million
The United States, the only non-Asian country on this list, is home to approximately 5.8 million individuals of Chinese descent. Chinese immigration to the U.S. began in the early 1850s, seeking economic opportunities during the California Gold Rush.
According to UMBC, many contemporary Chinese immigrants are middle-class individuals who can afford to move abroad but lack the wealth to access education or work as a direct means of entry.
5. Singapore - 3.1 million
Singapore stands out from the rest of the countries on this list, as its Chinese population constitutes the majority of the nation, at about 74% (3.1 million). The country’s role as a free port and trading hub under British colonial rule attracted waves of Chinese immigrants looking for job opportunities. Many of these immigrants sought a better life, escaping the economic and political turmoil in China.
After the British left Singapore, the Chinese community continued to establish strong roots in the island nation, influencing its economic, cultural, and political landscape—shaping the thriving global city-state it is today.
Given the five countries with the most Chinese immigrants, it is concluded that Chinese communities have played a major role across the world. To truly depict Chinese significance in economic sectors, explore more about the richest Chinese billionaire.
VISUAL CAPITALIST | MINORITY RIGHTS | UMBC.EDU
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