Amid global trade uncertainties, British companies are exploring partnerships with China. CEOs and Chinese officials met in London to discuss potential investments and collaborations, particularly in electric vehicles and renewable energy. Trump's tariffs are making China more attractive, and businesses are drawn to cost savings and quality. Despite concerns about brand protection, many are eager to establish long-term relationships. This shift suggests a re-evaluation of global trade alliances.
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00:00Well, with so much uncertainty in global trade, British companies are looking for reliable partners.
00:06It's pushing some to take a deeper look at opportunities in China.
00:10A correspondent, Michael Morillia, joined a group of CEOs at a networking event with Chinese officials.
00:16Here in the shadow of London's Big Ben, these business people are looking for matches, but not the romantic kind.
00:24Instead, they're searching for attractive investments.
00:28So this is what it's all about. Business people meeting, chatting and finding out if there's a chance of a long-term relationship.
00:38It's been exciting. It's almost like a dance. Everyone's having a dance. They're seeing if they feel right with each other.
00:46Across the Atlantic, President Donald Trump is dancing to his own tune, imposing tariffs on global trading partners.
00:54Some people at this event say Trump's approach is making China look even more attractive.
01:02I think really it's important that the UK companies here now start realizing maybe who the friends really are.
01:07In business, the one thing you need is stability.
01:10And I'm afraid there's certain places right now where stability is not really order the day.
01:14Chinese officials presented plans for their regions.
01:17They say they're gearing up to work with British companies.
01:21I think we can cooperate with the United Kingdom, especially when it comes to the electric vehicle sector.
01:31I've realized that the UK is also very interested in exploring new forms of energy.
01:37The UK has had its fair share of economic troubles.
01:41Even now, the country is still coming to terms with record high inflation.
01:45Some firms say Chinese manufacturers could be the answer.
01:50Here in the UK, it's very expensive. The labor is very expensive.
01:54So for the UK businesses, getting their things done from China is a lot of saving cost.
02:02The quality is also very good.
02:04And in my opinion, that's the future.
02:07It's not always love at first sight.
02:10Some business people are worried about safeguarding their brands in China.
02:14But they're working to resolve any snags.
02:18I'm in the process of getting my trademark.
02:20I'm working with a Chinese law firm.
02:22And I really am looking forward to trading with China.
02:27Business is built on relationships.
02:30Events like this suggest countries are rethinking where their future lies.
02:35Because when it comes to global trade, many believe the honeymoon is over.
02:41Michael Marilia, CGTN, London.