Two senior UK officials visited China this week, underscoring what analysts interpret as Britain’s intent to reinforce diplomatic and economic ties with Beijing in light of mounting global trade tensions. Ling Ji, China’s Vice Minister of Commerce, met with Douglas Alexander, the UK’s Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, during Alexander’s visit to attend the 5th China International Consumer Products Expo.
The two sides exchanged views on boosting trade collaboration and addressing the challenges posed by the recent U.S. tariff hikes, which have sparked global concern. Both nations agreed to move forward with preparations for the 14th UK-China Joint Economic and Trade Commission and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing trade, investment, and supply chain partnerships.
Ling criticized the U.S. for undermining the multilateral trading system with what he called “reciprocal tariffs,” and stressed that China’s countermeasures were necessary to defend its interests. He expressed China’s willingness to work with the UK in support of free trade and global economic stability.
Alexander echoed the sentiment, stating that the UK values its trade relationship with China and sees opportunities for expanded cooperation. He emphasized the UK’s commitment to an open market and multilateral collaboration, adding that the UK hopes to strengthen ties with China in the face of current global economic challenges.
While in China, Alexander is also expected to travel to Hainan and Hong Kong, according to British media. His visit came just days after the UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Tony Radakin, made the first official military visit to China in a decade. Admiral Radakin met with General Liu Zhenli, a senior official of the Chinese military, to discuss bilateral defense relations and global security issues.
Their talks in Beijing included in-depth discussions on international affairs, regional stability, and the importance of continued military dialogue. The two military leaders had previously communicated via video call in 2024 and participated in a bilateral defense consultation in September of the same year.
Observers in China see these high-profile visits as a sign that the UK is looking to pursue a more balanced and pragmatic foreign policy—especially under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration. According to Gao Jian, director of the Center for British Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, the UK recognizes the economic advantages of working more closely with China, particularly in an era of volatile U.S. trade policies.
Gao noted that while China and the UK differ politically, they share a mutual interest in upholding free trade principles and economic cooperation. He added that British leaders are likely weighing their options carefully, particularly as Washington continues to exert strong influence over European security and foreign policy direction.
Despite these developments, Prime Minister Starmer has yet to visit China, a move some experts suggest may be delayed due to sensitivity around U.S. relations. Meanwhile, the UK is preparing for a major military deployment to the Indo-Pacific, led by the Royal Navy’s Prince of Wales aircraft carrier and supported by 12 allied nations. While the deployment emphasizes Britain’s strategic engagement in the region, analysts warn that complete alignment with U.S. policy may not serve the UK’s long-term interests.
According to Zhuo Hua, a scholar at Beijing Foreign Studies University, Radakin’s trip symbolizes the ongoing improvement in UK-China relations, especially when viewed in the context of recent diplomatic exchanges and cooperative discussions between both countries’ militaries.
Chinese experts argue that Britain’s best strategy lies in maintaining its strategic autonomy and independent global role, especially amid growing unpredictability in Washington. They caution that aligning too closely with U.S. policies could compromise the UK’s ability to navigate a shifting international landscape.
