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One of the results of economic and social changes in China in recent decades is the mobilisation and transformation of a rural labour force who are giving up traditional rural pursuits and flowing to the cities. These workers have insufficient education and training and only the most basic skills. Clearly, there are new pressures on the education system, particularly in the areas of adult education and lifelong learning. Challenges that need to be faced include: the rural/urban disparity; disparity between regions; and educational and skill gaps. The status of adult education and the adult education system in China are reviewed and it is noted that the proportion of adults who participate in training remains low. A new finance system for adult learning is suggested and the need for improvement in the provision and teaching of adult education is emphasised. Lack of integration and transverse linkages between the general education system and adult education are perceived as contributing to the difficulties of establishing effective lifelong learning throughout China.