Concise background information on the People's Republic of China is provided. The publication begins with a profile of the country, outlining the people, geography, economy, and membership in international organizations. The bulk of the document then discusses in more detail China's people, geography, history, government, education, economy, and foreign relations; U.S.-China relations are specifically examined. Taiwan is discussed. A map of China is provided. Charts list the Chinese dynasties, the principal Chinese government and party officials, China's top 50 trading partners, and useful China-related addresses, e.g., Chinese foreign trade contacts, travel contacts, and cultural exchange groups. Statistical information is provided concerning the economy, the 1982 commodities composition, Chinese trade by areas and selected countries, and transportation and telecommunications. The Pinyin system of romanization is discussed, and travel notes are provided. A selected bibliography concludes the publication. (RM)