Ergonomics is at an early stage of development in China; however it is expanding and has grown steadily during the last few years. This paper gives a brief account of some current ergonomics activities in China. A historical perspective of its development is also described, and the progress and problems in ergonomic research and education are discussed. There can be no doubt that in the near future the importance of ergonomics will increase substantially in China, with its population of over one billion and its position as the world's largest developing nation striving to accomplish an unprecedented modernization programme.