China is the second largest global economy and, with Hong Kong, the UK’s second largest trading partner. Many UK businesses have found huge success in China, so it is imperative that there is an understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by this vital market.

The 2024 UK-China Business Forum was a half-day conference which took place on 20th March in London, and focused on the geopolitics of trade, and analyses the risks and rewards in a year which promises significant change. 

China and the UK face many of the same challenges: continued rebuilding of economies while making the transition to Net Zero, dealing with technological change, and addressing growing disparities in regional economic development.

Business links and trade and investment have a key role in tackling these challenges, though the investment, technology and expertise they mobilise - helping to accelerate the transition to a greener economy, catalyse innovation, and tackle regional inequalities. 

At the event there was a focus on exploring opportunities in key strategic sectors including transportation and EV evolution, and biosciences and healthcare, as well as considering topics around supply chain and risk management.

With balanced analysis of key issues from leading China and global analysts, and senior company executives, the Forum examined key trends and themes from a UK and China perspective, and also assessed the impact of our peer nations, including US the EU and Australia.

Guests at the UK-China Buiness Forum 2024 enjoyed free entry to CBBC’s Spring Reception.