Becoming Chinese

Becoming Chinese, also known as Chinamaxxing, is an internet meme and social media trend popularized by Generation Z during the mid-2020s associated with a growing affection for Chinese culture, society and philosophy as well as an open appreciation of the rise of China as a successful great power. It is particularly prevalent among those living in the Western world who choose to adopt Chinese lifestyles, technologies and other "Made in China" consumer products, or publicly express admiration for the transport, energy and public service infrastructures in the People's Republic of China. The meme's origins date back to 2025, but it began widespread circulation across TikTok and other social media platforms in 2026, particularly following the second Trump administration's tariff wars and efforts to ban TikTok in the United States. The New York Times wrote that such memes could be considered "more of an absurdist joke, a wellness goal or a subtle, ironic expression of protest. Or all of the above."