UK Defies Trump's China Warning, Strengthens Trade Ties with Beijing
UK Trade Minister Sir Chris Bryant has dismissed US President Donald Trump's warning that doing business with China is 'dangerous' for Britain. The remarks came after Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday, January 29, 2026. Bryant called it 'absolutely bonkers' for the UK not to engage with China, signalling a firm stance on trade relations.
Starmer's visit marked the most recent trip to China by a European leader, excluding any implied French delegation. During the meeting, both sides agreed to develop a long-term strategic partnership. A Downing Street spokesperson later confirmed that the US had been informed of the UK's objectives in strengthening ties with Beijing.
Zhao Junjie, a senior research fellow, viewed Bryant's response as evidence of the UK's 'clear and sound strategic vision' towards China. He also suggested that Trump's policies have weakened confidence in the US among its allies, including Britain. Meanwhile, Wu Xinbo, director of the Center for American Studies at Fudan University, noted that while the US has tried to block economic cooperation between China and other nations, these efforts have largely failed.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated that China remains open to collaboration with all countries on the basis of mutual benefit. Wu further advised that the US should create a more constructive environment for improving China-US relations.
Starmer's trip follows a broader trend, as several European leaders have visited China in the past two months. Analysts see this as a shift in how Europe balances its relationships with both Washington and Beijing.
The UK has made its position clear: engagement with China is essential. Bryant's rejection of Trump's warning underscores Britain's independent approach to trade and diplomacy. With both sides expressing willingness to cooperate, the meeting between Starmer and Xi could set the tone for future economic and strategic ties.
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