The Chinese language is gaining popularity because China is fast becoming a major super-power. In about 25 more years' time, it'll surpass the U.S., permanently, in GDP growth, total national revenue, and military might. At the current rate that it's growing, many people (esp. non-Chinese) are scared out of their wits that China will be THE ONLY super-power running this planet in, again, 25 years' time. Since it is now already considered the 2nd World Power (after the U.S, which is still #1, albeit thinly), it is only logical that people start learning Chinese. Anyway, the majority of people on this planet is Chinese, so it only makes sense that Chinese and English are the only two languages that everyone needs to learn. Now, bear in mind that there are many different dialects of Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese, Shang Hai-nese, Foochow-nese, and about 200 other), the main national dialect now is Mandarin. So, make sure you learn Mandarin, and don't get it mistaken with Cantonese. They are all written the same, but just pronounced a little differently. Also, the 2nd most widely spoken dialect IS Cantonese, because that takes up a HUGE portion of ALL Chinese businesses (and is the dialect most-spoken in all the Chinatowns throughout the world). Trust me on this b/c I'm Chinese-American and can speak Mandarin, Cantonese, and 2 other local dialects. I hope this answers your question.