UK trade minister says Britain will stay open to Chinese investment while safeguarding security
Britain’s trade minister Anas Sarwar said the UK will continue to welcome Chinese investment but will act firmly on any national security concerns.
British Minister of State for Trade Anas Sarwar told CNA that the United Kingdom will remain receptive to Chinese investment, provided it does not threaten national or economic security. Speaking in Manila following the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ gathering, he outlined Britain’s strategy of maintaining strong relations with the United States while also engaging China. Sarwar pointed to a 17.4% increase in UK-ASEAN trade, reaching £62 billion in 2025, and said the region offers opportunities in industry, digital technology and AI.
He signed an agreement with the Philippines’ Department of Finance to make up to £5 billion of UK Export Finance available for eligible infrastructure projects. The minister warned against protectionism, arguing for coordinated global policies on issues such as steel overcapacity, and emphasized the need to convince the British public that open trade benefits jobs and living standards.
Why it matters
The stance shapes how the UK navigates economic ties with China amid security worries and influences trade flows in Southeast Asia.
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