Fact Check: China has the world's largest population.

Fact Check: "China has the world's largest population."

What We Know

The claim that "China has the world's largest population" is currently inaccurate. As of 2025, data from Worldometer indicates that India has surpassed China as the most populous country, with an estimated population of approximately 1.46 billion people, while China's population is about 1.42 billion people. This shift marks a significant demographic change, as China held the title of the most populous country for decades.

Analysis

The assertion that China has the largest population is based on outdated information. According to the latest estimates from Worldometer, as of March 2025, China's population is approximately 1,416,096,094, which constitutes about 17.20% of the total world population. However, India's population is reported to be higher, at around 1,463,865,525, making it the most populous country in the world as of 2025 (database.earth).

The reliability of the sources used to verify this claim is high. Worldometer is known for compiling data from the United Nations and other reputable organizations, ensuring that their population estimates are based on credible methodologies. However, it is essential to note that demographic data can vary slightly depending on the source and the methodologies used for estimation.

Moreover, the claim may stem from historical context, as China maintained the largest population for many years prior to this demographic shift. This historical perspective can lead to confusion, especially if the claim is not updated to reflect the latest statistics.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that "China has the world's largest population" is false as of 2025. India has overtaken China in population size, making it the most populous country in the world. This demographic shift is supported by reliable data from reputable sources, indicating a significant change in global population dynamics.