Our main results demonstrate that atmospheric N_r pollution in eastern China is more serious in the northern region than in the southern region. Any effects of current emission controls are not yet apparent in N_r pollution. NH₃ emissions from fertilizer use were the largest contributor (36 %) to total inorganic N_r deposition. Our results provide useful information for policy-makers that mitigation of NH₃ emissions should be a priority to tackle serious N deposition.