Beijing has cautioned that the UK’s increasing “politicization” of Chinese business projects may influence companies’ willingness to invest in the country, Bloomberg reports.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Thursday that in recent years, routine economic and trade projects in the UK have often been subjected to politicization and overreach under the guise of national security. He cited concerns over Ming Yang Smart Energy Group Ltd.’s proposed wind turbine factory in Scotland, which some have flagged as a potential security risk.
“If this trend continues unchecked, it will seriously affect Chinese enterprises’ assessment of the UK’s investment environment and lead to more cautious decision-making,” Guo told reporters at a daily briefing.
The remarks come amid mounting tensions between the two countries, including disputes over embassy plans and warnings from the UK’s domestic security service, MI5, that politicians may be targeted by Chinese, Russian, and Iranian espionage.
Guo noted that the UK government has blocked multiple Chinese acquisitions since implementing the National Security and Investment Act in 2022.
Ming Yang earlier this month announced plans for a £1.5 billion ($2 billion) plant in Scotland to produce offshore and floating wind turbines, aiming to expand its global footprint as Western rivals face challenges. The facility, which still requires approvals from both Chinese and British authorities, is expected to begin operations by the end of 2028, according to company filings.
Bloomberg adds that the comments highlight Beijing’s sensitivity to what it perceives as politicized scrutiny of Chinese business activity abroad, potentially affecting future investment flows.
