The quiet revolution in animal rights in China
South China Morning Post
by Ying XiaMarch 4, 2026
Public awareness of animal welfare on the Chinese mainland is at an all-time high. The country now has the world’s second-largest pet population, estimated at 430 million in 2024 and growing strongly. The cultural shift was on full display last year when the justice ministry solicited public feedback on its legislative plans. In a massive show of support, an online survey pushing for anti-cruelty legislation attracted over 4.2 million votes, with 96 per cent voting in favour.
Yet despite rising...
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/4/2026