On 3 and 9 June 2026, Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang attended two separate events hosted by the UK business community, where he delivered remarks on the Chinese economy, China-UK economic and trade cooperation and other topics.

Ambassador Zheng pointed out that amid the increasing complexity and turbulence in the international situation, China is responding to external uncertainties with its own stable development, injecting positive energy into a volatile world.

China is fully implementing its 15th Five-Year Plan and firmly advancing high-quality development. Since the beginning of this year, the Chinese economy has maintained steady progress. In the first quarter, GDP grew by 5%; from January to April, the added value of industrial enterprises increased by 5.6% year-on-year, the services production index rose by 4.9%, and total retail sales of consumer goods grew by 1.9%; from January to May, the import and export of goods increased by 15.3% year-on-year. The Chinese economy continues to demonstrate strong resilience and sustained momentum.

Ambassador Zheng noted that when looking at the Chinese economy, one should focus on the following key aspects:

First, boosting domestic demand through expanded investment and consumption. A large number of major projects have been launched to lay the foundation for the future. Multiple measures have been taken to increase urban and rural residents’ incomes, create new consumption scenarios, and unlock consumption potential.

Second, accelerating the development of high-tech industries. China is vigorously implementing the “Artificial Intelligence +” initiative while simultaneously upgrading traditional industries and cultivating emerging and future industries. Mechanical and electrical products have become main drivers in exports.

Third, comprehensively promoting green and low-carbon development. China continues to advance the transformation of its industrial and energy structures, with green industries becoming new growth drivers.

Fourth, further advancing high-standard opening-up. Since 1 May, China has implemented the zero-tariff policy for all African countries that have diplomatic relations with China. Market access is being expanded with a focus on the services sector, and a series of “Export to China” events have been launched.

Ambassador Zheng pointed out that currently, economies around the world are being impacted by regional conflicts and high US tariffs. Protectionism and isolation offer no way forward; openness and cooperation is the only right path.

China-UK economic and trade cooperation is essentially mutually beneficial, which can be demonstrated in the following five aspects:  

First, China is a major manufacturing country and the UK a services powerhouse; the two countries’ economic structures are highly complementary.

Second, Chinese products offer good quality at competitive prices. Imports from China can help the UK curb inflation and reduce the cost of living. At the same time, China has strong demand for UK high-end consumer goods and professional services, offering a vast market.

Third, investing in China enables British companies to seize opportunities in the enormous Chinese market and achieve long-term development. Chinese investment in the UK brings capital, technology, and efficiency, while creating jobs and tax revenue. The UK side should create a fair, just, and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises and enhance investor confidence.

Fourth, strengthening cooperation with China in clean energy can help the UK advance its green transition and safeguard energy security. This is particularly important at a time when the world is facing an energy crisis.

Fifth, China’s scientific and technological capabilities continue to improve, so are their application, while the UK has a strong foundation in research and development. Enhanced science and innovation cooperation between the two sides can lead to mutual success.

Ambassador Zheng noted that recently, China and the UK held the 11th Strategic Dialogue and the 2nd Environment Ministers’ Dialogue in Beijing. China’s policy towards the UK remains stable and consistent. Both sides should firmly keep to the direction of developing a long-term and consistent comprehensive strategic partnership, earnestly implement the consensus and cooperation agreements already reached, and advance dialogue and cooperation across various fields to better benefit the people of both countries.

Ambassador Zheng expressed the hope that the business communities of both countries will continue to expand mutually beneficial cooperation, actively play a bridging role, and make new contributions to the steady and sustained development of China-UK relations.