Health Minister Chen Zhu was recognized by the World Health Organization for his efforts in combating nicotine addiction in a country of 300 million smokers.
WHO Director-General Margaret Chan praised Chen's contribution to tobacco control in China.
About 1 million people in China die annually from diseases, including heart attacks and cancer, related to smoking, the Geneva-based organization said on Wednesday.
Chen, 59, said in March that he is trying to improve the way tobacco companies are regulated.