China will let British citizens travel for up to 30 days without a visa, Downing Street has announced. The news came after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met President Xi Jinping in Beijing. This was the first visit by a British leader in eight years.
The government hopes the visa changes will start soon. Last year, about 620,000 Brits visited China, and many could benefit from the new rules. With this move, the UK joins more than 50 other countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan.
Trade and Business Opportunities
During the visit, the UK and China agreed to cut import taxes on UK whisky from 10% to 5%. Sir Keir said this will help British businesses expand in China and support jobs at home.
The two countries also plan to explore a services agreement. This would create clear rules for UK firms operating in China, including recognition of UK professional qualifications. With growing demand from China, this could open new opportunities for British companies in finance, healthcare, and legal services.
Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca will invest $15 billion (£10.9 billion) in China by 2030, building new manufacturing sites and increasing its workforce.
Cooperation on Illegal Migration
The UK and China will also work together to tackle illegal migration. Both sides agreed to crack down on the supply of small boat engines and equipment used by gangs to smuggle people across the Channel. Last year, over 60% of these engines were made in China.
In total, the two countries signed 10 agreements covering exports, education, and food safety.
Addressing Human Rights and Security
Sir Keir also raised sensitive issues, including the imprisonment of pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai and the treatment of Uyghur minorities in Xinjiang. He said engaging with China allows both countries to explore opportunities while also discussing areas of disagreement.
Conservative shadow home secretary Chris Philp criticized the visit, claiming it risks UK security and dismissed the migration deal as ineffective.
