Keir Starmer Photographer: Andy Rain/EPA/Bloomberg
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CNBC TV1829-01-2026, 22:26

UK Businesses Cheer New China Market Access, Visa-Free Travel After Starmer's Beijing Visit

  • UK businesses express optimism after Prime Minister Keir Starmer's talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, expecting new trade and investment avenues.
  • The UK government unveiled plans for visa-free travel for British citizens to China and greater market access, bringing the UK in line with 50 other countries.
  • Starmer's delegation, including 60 major British businesses, aims to forge new partnerships in healthcare, financial, legal services, education, and skills sectors.
  • A joint feasibility study will explore a bilateral services agreement to boost the £13 billion worth of services UK firms sell to China annually.
  • Industry leaders like CBI, Standard Chartered Bank, HSBC, and KPMG welcome the move, highlighting significant growth opportunities and job creation.

Why It Matters: Starmer's Beijing visit secures new market access and visa-free travel to China, boosting UK trade and investment.

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