Starmer to strike pact with China aimed at targeting people smuggling gangs

Thursday, 29 January 2026 07:00

Sir Keir Starmer is expected to strike a new border security pact with China aimed at disrupting the supply of small boats.

The government says that more than 60% of small boat engines used by people smugglers crossing the English Channel are manufactured in China

The new deal will allow UK law enforcement agencies to work with Chinese authorities to prevent this equipment reaching criminal networks in Europe.

Officials will share intelligence to identify smugglers' supply routes and engage with Chinese manufacturers to prevent legitimate businesses being exploited by organised crime.

The deal will be officially signed following the prime minister's meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Thursday.

Sir Keir is the first British prime minister to visit China in eight years.

The agreement will also scale up removals of those with no right to be in the UK and intensify work with China to crackdown on synthetic opioids.

Sir Keir said: "Organised immigration crime and the business model of the smuggling gangs goes beyond borders and our approach to shut them down must do the same.

"This deal will help us cut off the supply of boats at source - stopping crossings before lives are put at risk and restoring control to our borders.

"This is Britain back at the top table, delivering real results for the British people through our international relationships."

Read more from Sky News:
Sir Keir Starmer in China: What will be on the table?
Beth Rigby: Why PM's China trip carries real consequence

Rick Jones, deputy director at the National Crime Agency, said: "Targeting and disrupting the business models of people smuggling gangs is a top priority for the NCA. We work co-operatively and successfully with a range of international law enforcement partners to achieve this and protect people from harm.

"This agreement will enable us to work with Chinese law enforcement to tackle those gangs who exploit the most vulnerable, and prevent legitimate companies being drawn into this criminality. We are committed to working with them constructively going forward."

A total of 41,472 migrants arrived in the UK in 2025 after crossing the Channel on a small boat - the second-highest annual figure on record.

Sky News