British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is making waves this week as he becomes the first UK leader in eight years to visit China—a trip that’s got entrepreneurs and culture buffs buzzing. 🌏✨ To unpack what this means for cross-border collaboration, CGTN tapped British content creator Daniel Bateman, a self-proclaimed ‘China hand’ with over a decade of on-the-ground experience bridging UK-China ties.
💼 Bateman’s playbook for success? "Ditch the stereotypes, embrace the tea culture (yes, even beyond Earl Grey), and prioritize guanxi—building trust matters more than spreadsheets here," he laughs. His top tips for Brits eyeing opportunities in 2026:
🚀 Learn the ‘why’ behind customs: From business banquets to WeChat workflows, curiosity beats assumptions.
🤝 Invest in relationships first: "Shared meals build faster deals than cold emails."
📈 Adapt, don’t impose: "China’s tech scene moves at hyperspeed—stay humble, stay learning."
With Starmer’s visit highlighting renewed economic ties, Bateman’s insights offer a roadmap for young professionals and startups ready to ride the momentum. 🛠️🇬🇧 "The future’s collaborative," he says. "And trust me—it’s way more fun than you’d expect."
