China

China's government tightly controls all religion: only five faiths are officially recognised (Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, Catholicism and Protestantism), and Judaism is not one of them. Since 2015 local authorities in Kaifeng have surveilled and restricted the city's small Jewish community, as part of a state crackdown on unregistered religion that also targets Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and others. On 18 May 2021 a single CGTN presenter, Zheng Junfeng, said on air that Jews dominate finance; it was one presenter's remark, not government policy, and the state broadcaster pulled the video after Israel's embassy protested.

Last reviewed 26 Oct 2026

1. 2026-08-19
   Kaifeng Jewish community under surveillance
   A Tablet investigation reports national police have watched the homes of Kaifeng Jewish families since 2015, a community leader was held for five days by unidentified men in 2023, and Jewish historical markers were removed. Surveillance has reportedly eased somewhat.
   Source: Tablet Magazine
2. 2018-02-01
   Unregistered religious activity banned
   Revised Regulations on Religious Affairs require religious groups to register and bar religious activities outside registered groups and venues.
   Source: State Council, Regulations on Religious Affairs (Order No. 686), arts. 7 and 41