UK PM Secures Billions in Trade Deals and Investment During China Visit

Keir Starmer returns home after 3-day trip, touting benefits for British businesses and workers

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:15am

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has concluded a trade-focused trip to China, securing over £4.5 billion in export deals and investment commitments from Chinese companies. The visit saw agreements reached on reduced tariffs for UK whisky exports, new Chinese retail stores for the viral Labubu toy brand, and the establishment of a European headquarters for Chinese automaker Chery in Liverpool.

Why it matters

Starmer's decision to re-engage with China has drawn some criticism, but he argues it will deliver tangible benefits for British businesses and workers. The deals represent a significant economic boost, especially as the UK navigates the post-Brexit landscape and seeks to diversify its trade relationships.

The details

During the 3-day visit, Starmer brought over 50 representatives of UK businesses and cultural institutions. Key outcomes include: £2.2 billion in export deals, £2.3 billion in market access over 5 years, hundreds of millions in Chinese investment, reduced tariffs on UK whisky exports, and a new visa-free travel scheme for British nationals. Chinese toy maker Pop Mart also pledged to open 7 UK stores, including a flagship on Oxford Street.

  • Starmer concluded his China trip on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • The reduced tariffs on UK whisky exports will take effect starting Monday, February 2, 2026.

The players

Keir Starmer

The current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, who led the trade-focused visit to China.

Pop Mart

A Chinese company that makes the popular Labubu toy brand, which has pledged to open 7 stores in the UK including a flagship on London's Oxford Street.

Chery

A Chinese automaker that will establish its European headquarters in Liverpool, UK.

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What they’re saying

“We are bringing stability, clarity and a long-term strategy to how we engage with China, so we can bring home the benefits for businesses and for working people.”

— Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister

“Engaging with China is how we secure growth for British businesses, support good jobs at home and protect our national security.”

— Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister

What’s next

The new visa-free travel scheme for British nationals to China is still pending final details, but Downing Street said it has "full confidence" the agreement will be implemented.

The takeaway

Starmer's China visit demonstrates the UK's efforts to diversify its trade relationships and secure economic benefits, despite ongoing political tensions. While the deals represent a significant boost, the Prime Minister continues to face pressure to challenge China further on human rights issues.