Following the settlement of the UK general election in early July, BritCham Shanghai organised two UK election-related sessions. These events aimed to share the election results with our community and invited experts to delve into the latest developments and implications of the UK election. Through these sessions, we provided valuable insights and facilitated discussions on how the election outcomes could impact UK-China business dynamics.
On the early morning of 5 July, BritCham Shanghai hosted a special live viewing of the 2024 UK Election Results. Attendees had the opportunity to experience our new space while delving into the impact of the UK elections on business dynamics. This significant event was organised to provide the Shanghai community with the chance to follow the live coverage of the UK election results as they were announced in London time. This allowed us to engage in discussions with experts about the implications of the election outcomes.
Throughout a day rich with strategic dialogue and networking opportunities, participants witnessed how the 2024 UK election shapes business landscapes and explored potential opportunities in this evolving global context. BritCham invited esteemed speakers such as Dr John Quelch CBE, Executive Vice Chancellor and Distinguished Professor of Social Science at Duke Kunshan University, Emily Williams, Head of China Studies at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, and Chris Torrens, Managing Director Greater China at APCO Worldwide. These guest speakers joined a panel discussion and delivered speeches, sharing insights on how a new government might impact UK-China business relations.
The discussions focused on the complex dynamics of UK-China relations, particularly the impact of economic growth and geopolitical tensions on business. The speakers analysed the election results, focusing on the candidates and their potential impact on leadership and business strategies. They also explored the growing economic ties between China and the UK, emphasising sectors such as electric vehicles. The importance of understanding and accepting China’s political system while leveraging the UK’s strengths in specific industries was highlighted. Additionally, the potential improvement of UK-China relations through pragmatic economic policies, particularly in the clean energy sector, was discussed.
The speakers also addressed the lack of interest in the election among Chinese students and the potential impact of the incoming Labour government on education funding. They emphasised the need for broader support for international students, cultural exchange, and the promotion of Chinese culture. The gap in knowledge about China within British society was noted, stressing the importance of inclusive and balanced approaches to cultural exchange.
This event was unique in allowing the Shanghai business community to observe the UK election livestream together and engage in networking. The session enabled vibrant discussions among panellists from diverse backgrounds and an engaged audience, with panellists sharing their insights and experiences regarding the election and its implications.
On the evening of 11 July, BritCham Shanghai co-hosted a discussion session with China Crossroads titled “UK Election: Impact on UK-China Relations and Business Prospects,” scheduled one week after the UK election. This timely event featured insights from distinguished speakers who are experts in international relations and business strategy. The speakers were Chris Torrens, Managing Director of APCO Worldwide Greater China, and Don Weinland, China Business and Finance Editor at The Economist.
The event gathered the audience to explore how the recent election results could reshape the landscape of trade, investment, and diplomatic ties between the UK and China. Participants engaged in dialogue with our speakers and fellow attendees, gaining valuable insights into the pathways and challenges ahead for businesses operating between these two influential economies.
Through this event, the panel provided the Shanghai business community with a deeper understanding of the evolving political and economic dynamics and their potential influence on business strategies moving forward. The conversation centred on potential collaboration between the UK and China in the clean energy sector, particularly addressing the cost-of-living crisis through fuel-efficient cars and solar panels. The importance of ESG practices was emphasised, along with the necessity of engaging with China.
The panel also discussed various cases that could impact global elections related to Chinese businesses, underscoring the need for an audit of UK companies investing in China and the importance of exchanging ideas while maintaining one’s values.
Further discussions examined the complexities of UK-China relations, focusing on investment, trade, education, geopolitics, and consumer perspectives. The importance of understanding European and UK views on global issues and the potential for investing in China’s R&D centres and biotech opportunities were highlighted. Challenges related to resetting relations with China were also addressed. The role of the civil service in driving policy was underscored, with examples provided on how other countries have approached their relationships with China.
The event provided a comprehensive look at the future of UK-China relations post-election, equipping attendees with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the evolving landscape.
BritCham Shanghai extends our gratitude to the speakers, China Crossroads, and guests who joined this event. The Chamber will continue to organise insightful events to bridge British and Shanghai businesses.
