Former US President Donald Trump has reportedly cautioned the United Kingdom against deepening its economic engagement with China, calling such ties “very dangerous” at a time when British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is attempting to reset relations with Beijing. Trump’s remarks underline growing transatlantic tensions over how Western nations should deal with China’s rising global influence, particularly in trade, technology, and national security.
According to reports, Trump made the comments while discussing global economic realignments and the strategic risks he believes China poses to Western democracies. He has long argued that China uses trade relationships to gain political leverage, access sensitive technologies, and undermine domestic industries in partner countries. His warning to the UK reflects a broader US position especially among Republicans that allies should reduce their dependence on China, even at significant short-term economic cost.
The comments come as Prime Minister Starmer’s new Labour government seeks a more pragmatic approach toward China after years of strained relations. While London remains wary of Beijing’s record on human rights, cybersecurity, and geopolitical assertiveness, Starmer has signalled openness to restoring high-level dialogue and expanding limited economic cooperation, particularly in areas such as climate change, education, and regulated trade.
UK officials have framed the proposed reset not as a return to “business as usual” but as a carefully managed relationship grounded in national interest. The government has reiterated that China remains a “systemic competitor,” yet insists engagement is necessary given China’s role in global supply chains and international institutions. British businesses, especially in finance, manufacturing, and higher education, have also lobbied for a more stable relationship to protect investments and exports.
Trump’s intervention, however, adds pressure on London as it balances its “special relationship” with Washington against its own economic priorities. During his presidency, Trump frequently criticised allies for what he saw as naivety toward China, urging them to follow the US lead on tariffs, technology bans, and restrictions on Chinese companies. His reported remarks suggest that, if he returns to the White House, Washington may again take a hard line not only with Beijing but also with partners perceived as too accommodating.
Political analysts note that Trump’s language describing UK-China business ties as “very dangerous” is likely aimed as much at a domestic US audience as at London. Tough rhetoric on China remains popular among American voters concerned about jobs, manufacturing decline, and national security. At the same time, it serves as a warning signal to allies that future US cooperation could be tied to alignment on China policy.
In the UK, reactions have been mixed. Opposition figures and security experts have echoed concerns about over-reliance on China, pointing to risks in critical infrastructure, data security, and supply chains. Others argue that disengagement is unrealistic and that a controlled, transparent relationship is safer than isolation, which could push China toward more confrontational behaviour.
As Starmer moves ahead with his diplomatic reset, Trump’s remarks highlight the tightrope the UK must walk. With global power blocs hardening and the possibility of a Trump return looming, Britain’s China policy is set to remain a sensitive and closely watched test of its post-Brexit foreign strategy.
