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China vs Brazil Life expectancy
China overtook Brazil in 1972. In 1960 Brazil stood at roughly 159% of China’s Life expectancy; today the figure is about 97%, and the pair was closest in 1971 (100%).
| Year | China | Brazil | Brazil as % of China |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1960 | 33.42 | 53.16 | 159% |
| 1970 | 56.82 | 57.34 | 101% |
| 1980 | 64.24 | 61.82 | 96% |
| 1990 | 68.16 | 65.86 | 97% |
| 2000 | 72.29 | 69.58 | 96% |
| 2010 | 75.67 | 73.78 | 98% |
| 2020 | 78.02 | 74.51 | 95% |
| 2024 | 78.02 | 76.02 | 97% |
Frequently asked questions
When did China pass Brazil in Life expectancy?
In 1972. China’s published Life expectancy rose above Brazil’s that year and the lead has held since.
How do China and Brazil compare today?
China is ahead: 78.02 against 76.02 — the trailing economy stands at about 97% of the leader.
Are these Life expectancy figures nominal or adjusted?
They are exactly as the World Bank publishes them — years — with no interpolation or estimation for missing years.
Full series
Every published year for both economies, with charts, downloads and citations: