China/Borderlands

OpenStreetMap is the only major map data provider which represents mainland China with actual coordinates and not distorted / offset maps: coordinate system

This makes OSM and related apps valuable throughout mainland China, and along its border where Google Maps and others distort the map to connect China with bordering countries, Hong Kong, and Macau. For example, take a look at Móng Cái, Vietnam in street and satellite views of Google Maps, or try to get driving directions from Hong Kong to Shenzhen.

In Myanmar, Vietnam, and Nepal, these areas are frequently being developed and rebuilt, and governments do not provide official sources of geo data. Volunteer data and recent satellite imagery are our best sources.

Current Focus Areas

Mong La

Controlled by Shan groups in Myanmar

https://www.mmtimes.com/opinion/19435-visiting-mong-la-this-is-why-you-shouldn-t.html

Border crossings

Especially any updated or expanded under the Belt and Road Initiative

India / China border in Kashmir

Currently a source of tensions and news reports

Out of Scope

We do not intend to modify the border line, to address claims in the South China Sea (represented well on WikiProject South China Sea and on https://amti.csis.org/island-tracker/ ), or naming of cities. The main focus is to improve quality and coverage of OpenStreetMap data. We must follow OpenStreetMap's general rule for ground-truth and disputed areas (who sets signs and maintains government) as we would in Crimea or Abkhazia.