China Business Briefing - 2hr lunch time event

North East business briefing exploring China trade, culture and economic strategy for UK business leaders. Free event. CHINA – A NORTHERN BUSINESS BRIEFING Understanding China’s changing economy, the UK’s renewed trade ambitions, and what it means for northern businesses Understanding China. Exploring trade. Preparing northern businesses. As the UK government looks to strengthen trade links with the Far East following Sir Keir Starmer’s visit to China in January 2026, this high-level North East business briefing will bring together leading experts, policy specialists and experienced business leaders to explore the realities and opportunities of working with China. Designed for business owners, directors and senior decision-makers, the event will provide practical insight into China’s economic direction, the country’s emerging 15th Five-Year Plan, and how British businesses can successfully engage with one of the world’s most important markets. Attendees will hear expert perspectives on trade, manufacturing, technology, investment and international business culture, alongside practical lessons from companies already trading with and in China. Expected speakers and topics include: Policy and Economic Insight A speaker from the Tony Blair Institute will examine the direction of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and what it could mean for global trade, innovation, manufacturing and investment. Trade and Market Access A representative from the China-Britain Business Council will speak on the current state of UK-China trade relations and how British firms can engage more effectively with opportunities in the market. Business Experience from the Front Line A company with direct experience of trading with China will share practical lessons, opportunities, challenges and advice from real commercial experience. Culture, Communication and First Impressions A Chinese expert will discuss business culture, communication styles, relationship-building and avoiding common mistakes during those crucial first meetings. Why attend? • Understand the latest UK policy direction towards China • Gain insight into China’s economic priorities and planning strategy • Hear practical experiences from businesses already trading in China • Learn how culture and communication can influence commercial success • Make more informed decisions about exporting, partnerships and future growth This will be a practical and informed discussion for northern business leaders seeking greater understanding of where China fits into the UK’s future trade landscape — and how to approach that opportunity with confidence. Event Details 📅 29th October 2026 🕛 12:00pm – 2:30pm 📍 Venue: Tessside International Airport Registration & Further Information Graham Robb Senior Partner, Recognition PR 📧 [email protected] About Recognition PR Recognition PR is a long-established Northern public relations firm representing more than 70 clients across multiple sectors, employing over 50,000 people with a combined turnover exceeding £8 billion. The event will be chaired by Recognition PR founder Graham Robb, former Chair of the Institute of Directors in the North East, who has been involved in private sector trade bodies and public business forums for nearly 40 years. Recognition PR regularly hosts senior business briefings featuring leading figures from economics, politics and the media. Recent events have explored critical minerals, the first 100 days of President Trump, the North’s electricity infrastructure, UK defence investment and economic outlooks from leading economists.