Estimates of atmospheric emissions of lead from anthropogenic sources in China from 1990 to 2009 are presented with the information on emissions of both total lead and its spatial distribution in regions. The total emissions during the period 1990–2009 are nearly 200 000 tons. Motor vehicle gasoline combustion was the largest source of anthropogenic emissions. The estimated release of 117 800 t of lead represented 60% of the total emissions. Substantial decline occurred in 2001, when the total emissions were about 81% less than the 2000 value. The reduced lead content of motor vehicle gasoline is the primary reason for the decreased in lead emissions in 2001. After leaded gasoline was phased out, coal combustion became the principal source of emissions. Based on data on emissions from 2005 through 2009, the emissions are concentrated in eastern and central China due to the high level of coal consumption and non-ferrous metal smelting. The five provinces with the largest amounts of lead emissions are Shandong, Hebei, Shanxi, Henan and Jiangsu. These five regions produced nearly 40% of the total.