A New Era: Starmer and Li Qiang Sign Historic UK-China Trade Agreements | DRM News | AC1C

The video reports on the signing of multiple high-level economic agreements between the United Kingdom and China during a four-day visit by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to Beijing on January 29, 2026. Accompanied by Business Secretary Peter Kyle and a delegation of nearly 60 British companies, the visit was focused on boosting the UK’s £13 billion services export market. Key outcomes of the summit included a new visa-free travel policy allowing British citizens to visit China for up to 30 days and progress concerning the reduction of tariffs on British whisky.

During his address to the 2026 UK-China Business Council, Starmer characterized the evolving relationship as a "sophisticated" chapter requiring a "consistent and pragmatic" partnership that balances economic engagement with national security considerations. This marked the first visit by a sitting British Prime Minister to China in eight years, signaling efforts to redefine UK-China trade relations.