China’s internet is famously walled off from the global web. Despite barriers including censorship and moderation practices, a unique Chinese digital ecosystem has flourished—and unexpectedly, attracted Americans. The recent temporary exodus of TikTok users to RedNote presented a rare opportunity for American and Chinese peoples to digitally interact on a large scale, sharing views and opinions on the Chinese internet’s own turf. Why is China’s internet so different from the global internet and in what ways can it be a bridge, or barrier, for online exchange?
Yaling Jiang joins the National Committee in an interview recorded on February 9, 2025 to introduce China’s internet, its evolution, and forms of censorship that exist within it.
Yaling Jiang
Yaling Jiang is the founder of ApertureChina, a research and strategy consultancy, and the Chinese consumer newsletter Following the Yuan. With a background as a lifestyle columnist, translator, and business journalist, Yaling has closely observed Chinese consumers over the past decade. She has dedicated her career to interpreting Greater China for the rest of the world.
Raised in a third-tier Chinese city and educated internationally, Yaling brings a unique blend of perspectives and a deep, personal connection to Chinese consumers of all backgrounds.