* Different definitions of "English speaker": What does it mean to be an English speaker? Is it someone who can hold a basic conversation, someone who is fluent, or someone who is proficient enough to work in English?
* Lack of reliable data: There's no single, universally accepted source for accurate figures on English proficiency in either country. Estimates vary widely.
* China's size: China's population is significantly larger than the US. While the percentage of English speakers in China might be lower, the sheer number of people could still exceed the US.
What we do know:
* English is widely taught in China: English is a mandatory subject in Chinese schools, and many Chinese people learn English for academic, professional, and travel purposes.
* The US has a large English-speaking population: The US is a predominantly English-speaking country, with English being the official language in many states.
In conclusion:
It's a complex question with no easy answer. While China may have a large number of people who have some exposure to English, the US likely has a higher percentage of fluent and proficient English speakers.