Keir Starmer's China Visit
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will travel to China on Tuesday, January 27, marking the first visit by a UK leader to the country in eight years. The three-day trip will include meetings with Chinese leaders in Beijing, followed by a visit to Shanghai. Following his time in China, the Prime Minister will also travel to Japan.
Starmer is being accompanied by dozens of business leaders and two ministers, underscoring the economic focus of the mission. As of mid-2025, China was the UK's fourth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at approximately £100 billion ($137 billion). This visit comes at a time when the UK is actively seeking to define its global economic partnerships post-Brexit.
Purpose of the Visit
The primary goal of Keir Starmer's visit is to strengthen economic ties between the UK and China, representing a significant step in developing bilateral relations. The trip is seen as an opportunity to enhance trade links and foster greater cooperation between the two nations.
Given the UK's efforts to bolster its international standing following its departure from the European Union, Starmer's visit to China could unlock new avenues for economic development. Backed by the participation of key business figures, the visit highlights the importance of collaboration between the two countries amidst ongoing global economic challenges.