North Carolina State Representative Gregory F. Murphy has called for the United Nations to update China’s classification as a developing nation, citing its significant economic growth and global influence. Murphy introduced a resolution urging the House of Representatives to reject this classification, arguing that it provides benefits intended for lower-income countries.
“For decades, China’s economy has grown to the point that they are now the second largest in the world,” said Rep. Gregory F. Murphy. “This success, coupled with political ambition, continues to fuel its desire for global hegemony. Yet despite its powerful status, it is still classified as a developing nation under multiple treaties and by international organizations, including the United Nations (UN). It is long past due for China to lose its competitive advantage by being characterized this way.”
According to Murphy’s press release, the resolution emphasizes that the status of a developing nation grants specific advantages such as development financing, technical assistance, governance support, preferential market access, and extended transition periods for international commitments. The resolution questions China’s eligibility for these benefits given its current economic standing.
The resolution references China’s economic activities and global influence, noting its classification by the World Bank as an upper-middle-income economy. It highlights China as the largest goods exporter globally and the third-largest purchaser of U.S. exports in 2022. Additionally, data from the U.S. Government Accountability Office shows that between 2013 and 2022, China invested $679 billion in infrastructure projects across nearly 150 countries and financed 226 power plants in 64 countries, making it a leading investor in global energy projects.
“It is long past due for China to lose its competitive advantage by being characterized this way,” said Murphy. “It is time for the UN to change this absurd moniker so that China’s status reflects its true position as a global economic leader.”
Murphy is currently serving his fourth term representing North Carolina’s Third Congressional District. He is involved in several committees including the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Veterans Affairs Committee, and co-chairs the House GOP Doctors Caucus. He holds degrees from Davidson College and the University of North Carolina’s School of Medicine and is noted as Congress’s only practicing surgeon.
