China have yet to make their debut at the Rugby World Cup, but attempted to qualify in both 2003 and 2007.

They finished at the top of the final standings due to a better points difference, and advanced to Round 2.

They started in Division 2 of Round 1, contesting matches against the Arabian Gulf rugby union team and Chinese Taipei.

China defeated Chinese Taipei 22-19 in their first game, but lost against the Arabian Gulf team, seeing them finish second, and moving into Division 2 of Round 2.

China has traditionally fared quite well, with recent results including a bowl victory in 2007 and a win over Scotland in the 2008 pool stage.