Greater China

Greater China (Traditional Chinese:大中華地區, Simplified Chinese:大中华地区, Hanyu Pinyin: Dà Zhōnghuá Dìqū) refers to mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. This politically correct term, used largely in economic contexts due to the ambiguity of the word China in referring to mainland China, the current jurisdiction of the People's Republic of China (PRC), or both the PRC and the Republic of China (ROC) on Taiwan. It is the ultimate vision of Chinese nationalists for a united Chinese state to comprise of these areas.

The People's Republic of China controls mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau, though the latter two are governed as Special Administrative Regions. Hong Kong was handed over by the United Kingdom in 1 July 1997 and Macau was handed over by Portugal in 20 December 1999. Therefore, the remaining issue is the reunification between Taiwan and mainland China. The word "China" refers to both the continental mainland China and the tiny island of Taiwan.

The Republic of China controls Taiwan, Penghu, Quemoy, and Matsu and officially claims all of mainland China and outer Mongolia. The PRC considers the ROC illegitimate and has threatened to invade Taiwan if Taiwan independence is declared. (see political status of Taiwan)

See also

• Mainland China
• China Proper