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<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nHuang Shan opened the discussion by referencing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer\u2019s commitment to cutting bureaucracy and creating a stable investment environment. \u201cStarmer has emphasised the need to rip up red tape and ensure stability to attract investment,\u201d she said. This sentiment was echoed by Joe Li, who noted the improving ties between the UK and Chinese governments. \u201cIt\u2019s good to see the adults back in the room. The relationship is now being handled in a sensible and pragmatic way,\u201d Li remarked. He highlighted HSBC\u2019s unique position as a British bank with deep roots in China, symbolised by its name, which includes two Chinese cities. \u201cWe are at the core of this conversation, and we\u2019ve already seen a significant increase in enquiries from Chinese investors,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Li also shared HSBC\u2019s efforts to bridge the gap between UK SMEs and Chinese markets. \u201cLast year, we took 20 SMEs on a week-long trip to China, and this year we plan to take 40 clients on a two-week trip. The interest is growing rapidly,\u201d he said. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by the UK\u2019s regulatory environment, particularly in sectors like green energy. \u201cWhen you have 4,000 documents required for planning permission, it\u2019s hard for Chinese investors to understand. Grid reform is another major obstacle, with 700 megawatts of power projects pending due to outdated assessment processes,\u201d Li explained. He welcomed recent efforts to prioritise \u201cready-to-go\u201d projects, calling it a positive cultural shift.<\/p>\n\n\n\n