Marketplace All-in-One Trade talks underway between the U.K. and China
Jan 29, 2026
Mo Ali, BBC correspondent covering agricultural trade, talks South Africa’s new stone fruit access to China and what it means for farmers. Anjana Tawari, BBC reporter on international politics and economics, reports on Keir Starmer’s trade-focused China visit and which UK sectors might benefit. They discuss trade talks, potential partnerships, and shifting markets for food and services.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
UK Seeks Strategic Economic Partnerships
- Keir Starmer brought dozens of UK business leaders to China to pursue economic partnerships in services and green tech.
- Both economies need growth, so trade deals aim to boost investment and demand.
Target Competitive UK Sectors
- Focus on sectors where the UK is competitive like financial services, education, and green technology.
- Leverage UK services to meet China's growing investments in green tech and related needs.
Visits Reflect Pragmatic Pivot To China
- Western leaders' recent visits to Beijing reflect a pragmatic shift amid strained US ties and global economic needs.
- Starmer frames engagement as vital for UK economic and geopolitical interests despite domestic scrutiny.