The Report on the International Digital Image Index of Chinese Cities was released in Chongqing on Dec 28. Fuzhou achieved the highest ranking in the international influence category, followed by Xiamen at fifth, Quanzhou at 21st, Putian at 54th, and Jinjiang at 66th.

This comprehensive study, developed by the Schools of Journalism and Communication at Renmin University of China (RUC) and Chongqing University, along with other leading academic institutions, evaluates 106 major cities across three core metrics: international communication power, global influence, and international recognition.

The findings suggest that the digital presence of Chinese cities is evolving from a model dominated by a few central metropolises to a diverse, multi-polar landscape. This transition reflects a broader trend where urban influence is increasingly defined by reputation rather than sheer scale.

Type II cities such as Zhongshan and Putian generate significant global search volumes, often surpassing larger cities. Furthermore, cities such as Fuzhou and Xiamen have utilized favorable coverage across international mainstream and social media to elevate their standing.

This report follows a domestic study on China Cities' Digital Image Index conducted by RUC in May, collectively forming a dual-layered analytical framework that captures the multidimensional reality of China's contemporary urban image. These insights illustrate a confident and increasingly nuanced representation of Chinese urban life within the global digital sphere.