What did Keir Starmer secure in China?

Announcements included visa-free travel for visitors, lower tariffs on UK whisky, and a reported £10.9bn AstraZeneca manufacturing buildout. These steps could support UK China trade by reducing costs and smoothing travel. Markets now want firm dates, legal texts, and clarity on how rules will be implemented.

How could Trump China tariffs affect UK assets?

If Washington moves to higher tariffs or tighter tech rules, the UK may align on key measures. That would raise headline risk for China-exposed UK revenues, pressure exporters’ valuations, and lift GBP risk premia. Bond markets might price growth risk, while defensive UK sectors could outperform temporarily.

Is the £10.9bn AstraZeneca plan confirmed?

It has been reported as a manufacturing buildout linked to China, not final public documentation. Investors should look for regulatory filings, construction timelines, and local approvals. Capital spending of that size often phases over years, with milestones that affect suppliers and service partners along the way.

Which indicators should UK investors watch next?

Monitor formal tariff schedules, visa implementation dates, and UK guidance on screening and export controls. Track G7 coordination and US campaign positioning on China. In markets, watch GBP, UK credit spreads, and sector moves in distillers, pharma suppliers, travel, and education as policy headlines land.

Law and Government

Keir Starmer in China: Deals vs US Pressure – February 05 Market Watch

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

Keir Starmer is in China with announcements on visa-free travel, lower whisky tariffs, and a reported £10.9bn AstraZeneca manufacturing buildout. These moves could lift UK China trade and support exporters, tourism, and services. Donald Trump warned it is “very dangerous” for the UK to do business with China, raising tariff and policy risk. We outline what UK investors should track now, how US-UK alignment may shape flows, and where GBP sensitivity sits as headlines evolve.