The prevalence of obesity in China is currently one of the lowest in the world, but it is increasing, particularly in urban areas. The incidence of obesity in China is approximately four to five times lower than in the UK and USA respectively. Several dietary studies have found that dietary fat consumption in China is lower than in Western countries, but is currently increasing. In addition, Chinese in more affluent countries such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore, and Chinese immigrants in the USA are consuming greater amounts of dietary fat than Chinese in China. This increased intake of fat in Chinese is probably due to transition from the traditional Chinese eating patterns to those typical of Westerners. The change in overall dietary intake is likely to have an impact on obesity, health and economy of these nations. This is an appropriate time to examine the relationship between diet and obesity with special reference to Chinese communities in different parts of the world.