The China-Britain Business Council (CBBC) hosted the UK Investment Conference in Shanghai on Tuesday, 24 September. The event attracted about 250 delegates and featured a platform for 50 speakers, including senior representatives from the governments of both China and the UK, executives from Chinese companies looking to expand their strategies in the UK market, as well as UK firms supporting this international collaboration. 

Throughout the one-day programme, guests participated in discussions about Chinese investment opportunities, explored strategies for success, examined the future of Chinese investment in the UK and capital raising and market connections. In the afternoon, discussions covered a wide range of sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, biotechnology, automotive, electric vehicles, and sustainable and renewable energy.

A key highlight of the conference was the launch of the UK Investment Guide, which presents successful case studies and valuable insights to help Chinese investors thrive in the UK market. 

Download the guide here

In his opening remarks, Peter Burnett OBE BBS, Chief Executive, China-Britain Business Council emphasised that the UK is an attractive investment destination for Chinese companies, offering a transparent legal system, a stable environment, and a pro-business regulatory approach. "The strengths of the UK's institutions and the dynamism of the UK market should reassure Chinese investors that their investment expertise will be welcomed and rewarded and can bring benefits for all stakeholders." 

In a video message, H.E Ambassador Zheng Zeguang, Chinese Ambassador in the UK expressed his appreciation to CBBC and our partners' efforts in making this conference happen. He noted: "The Labour government in the UK has set out its priorities for the country, including growing the economy, improving people's lives and accelerating green transition. As such, great potential is in place for the practical cooperation between our two countries. The Chinese government, as always, welcomes British companies for investment in China, and supports Chinese companies to develop in the UK. We stand ready to work with the UK government to provide a fair, just and non-discriminatory business environment for companies from both countries."

Huang Yuefeng, Deputy Director General Department of European Affairs, Ministry of Commerce, People’s Republic of China acknowledged that the conference serves as a valuable platform for investors from both sides. He expressed hope that today's discussions would further promote China-UK cooperation. "The Chinese government places great importance on China-UK relations and pragmatic economic cooperation. Businesses are the main drivers of China-UK trade relations, and the Department of European Affairs at the Ministry of Commerce will continue to provide comprehensive support to companies, whether for investments in the UK or in China."

Liu Minqiang, Director General, Investment Promotion Agency of Ministry of Commerce of China (CIPA) extended his congratulations on today’s event. He emphasised that cooperation is at the heart of the business communities' shared goals in both countries. He added: "For many years, we have maintained a close partnership with the China-Britain Business Council, working together to promote exchanges and cooperation between government institutions and businesses in both countries. Let us take this UK Investment Conference as an opportunity to build greater consensus, pool our strengths, and elevate China-UK trade and investment to new heights, writing a new chapter of mutually beneficial cooperation.

Matt Burney, Consul General, British Consulate Shanghai highlighted that the British government has made economic growth at the very heart of its agenda, aiming for high growth rates through a pro-business and pro-investment approach that creates new opportunities for businesses. "The UK is open for business, and investment will be a key pillar of our government's efforts, not just for profit, but to improve lives, drive prosperity, and foster collaboration for a safer and more prosperous future." 

Kiran Patel, Senior Director, China-Britain Business Council and Xin Xiuming, Vice Chairman, China International Contractors Association (CHINCA) jointly launched the UK Investment Guide 

Xin Xiuming commented that: "The economies of China and the UK are highly complementary and have great potential for economic and trade cooperation, and the Guide will provide accurate navigation services for Chinese companies investing in the UK, which will help expand more areas of in-depth cooperation. As the Chinese Secretariat of the China-UK CEO Council, CHINCA will strengthen cooperation with the CBBC and continue to promote pragmatic cooperation between enterprises."

To find out more about the day and the panel sessions and speakers, you can read more here.