Addresses and team reports from an inter-regional seminar which examined aspects of primary health care in China are presented. Background information about the seminar is given along with an introduction to rural health services in China. The report considers four key issues: China's three-level health care network; involvement of the people; health manpower developments; and financing of rural health care. Among the points stressed were China's tremendous commitment to the task of improving the quality of life for its people, especially those in rural areas. Also emphasized was the close association of the health sector with every aspect of economic and social development, and the contribution of concerted action by all sectors to the raising of health standards. Particular notice was taken of the combination of western medicine with Chinese traditional medicine and the step-by-step development of appropriate technology. The involvement of the people, who not only take part in mass health campaigns and the delivery of health care, but also assume responsbility for the management of health activities at every level, is cited as perhaps the most important factor in the development of China's health care system. Major conclusions and general observations from the seminar are also included. (JD)