Business Opportunities in Chinese Cities

This article looks at the Chinese economy, following on from the recent trade talks between the UK and China. Specifically, it focuses on the largest cities in China and the types of businesses which flourish in each of them.

This article will take around four minutes to read.

Following the recent trade talks between the UK and China, more business opportunities should be opening up between the two countries. Here, The Moving Partnership, who offer removals packages from the UK to China, look at the economic specialities of the largest Chinese cities.

Moving to China with The Moving Partnership

The Moving Partnership can help with moves to China from the UK and other parts of the world. For more information, you can call us on either 0845 0037335 or 0800 772 3709.

The 2026 Trade Talks

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer travelled to China to meet the country’s president, Xi Jinping, at the end of January. The trip was a chance to highlight the strength of British firms in finance, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, clean energy and car making. President Xi Jinping, meanwhile, was aiming to show that China could be a reliable partner for Western economies.

Although no overarching free trade deal was reached, progress was made in a number of areas. Firms such as Octopus Energy and medical research giant AstraZeneca are now both entering the Chinese market, while China has agreed to halve tariffs on Scotch whisky.

So, if you are likely to be offered a new job in China, where are the main cities and what are their main economic strongpoints?

Shanghai

If you are considering removals from the UK to Shanghai, then the Chinese city is the base for plenty of international banks, insurance companies, and consultancy groups. Shanghai is also home to the world’s biggest container port, which brings plenty of opportunities in transportation, logistics, and any import/export businesses.

The city is full of cinemas, theatres, museums, restaurants, music venues, bars and much more – meaning that the quality of life in the city is the highest in the country, according to a report compiled by PwC. However, Shanghai is also one of the most expensive places to live in China, although wages and salaries are generally higher than the rest of the country.

Beijing

If you have experience in the media, tourism or hospitality sectors, or in other service industries, then you may be better off considering international removals to Beijing (pictured above). The ancient Chinese capital (formerly known as Peking) is home to many State-owned businesses as well as the country’s Government departments.

However, there are still substantial manufacturing and construction sectors, as well as agriculture and mining in the surrounding area.

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is the capital of the province of Zhejiang, and even though the city is more than 2,200 years old, today it is known as the “city of mobile internet”. It is probably China’s leading ‘smart’ city, meaning digital technology is harnessed to help run the traffic, transport, waste collection and other public services in a sustainable manner.

However, it still has a strong industrial base with many diverse sectors, including light industry, agriculture, and textiles, all still thriving. However, like Shanghai, it is one of the more expensive places to live in the country.

Guangzhou

This is the largest port in southern China, making it particularly easy for shipping in and out from the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand. It’s also a hub for international businesses, with more than 30,000 foreign-invested companies having a presence in the city.

The average salary and pension are among the highest in China; however, Guangzhou does have the dubious accolade of being the most expensive place to live in the whole country (higher even than Beijing and Shanghai).

Shenzhen

This city – the third largest in China, after Shanghai and Beijing – is known as the “Chinese Silicon Valley” and it is ranked first when it comes to technology and innovation in the PwC report.

Apart from the high-tech industries, Shenzhen also has a large container port and is one of China’s largest centres for financial services. A number of foreign banks have established offices in the city, including Citibank, HSBC and Standard Chartered.

Removals from the UK to China with The Moving Partnership

At The Moving Partnership, we can help with domestic and commercial moves to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou and many other areas of China. You will be offered the option of a dedicated shipping service or a groupage option where you share a container with other people’s consignments. Smaller items can be sent via air freight.

We will come up with a quote which meets your budget and needs; it can include extras such as packing and unpacking, storage, and moving specialist items. You can kick-start the whole process off with one of our video surveys, which can be found on our removals to China page here.

FAQS:

Q: What is the visa situation in China?

A: If you are considering removals from the UK to China, then you must obtain specific visas (usually a Z-visa for work) and resident permits in advance, while short-term stays of up to 30 days are transitioning to visa-free access. Applicants must typically apply in person for fingerprinting at Chinese Visa Application Service Centres in London, Manchester or Edinburgh. 

You must apply for a residence permit from local public security authorities if you are staying longer than 30 days. 

Q: What about if you are moving to China from the rest of the world?

A: The situation is similar if you are moving to China from a country other than the UK. As well as the Z-visa for work, there is an X-visa for study, or a Q/S-visa for family. Again, a permit must be obtained within 30 days of arrival. 

Remember, The Moving Partnership will be able to help you with any customs-related paperwork, whichever part of the world you are moving from.

Q: How much Chinese will you be expected to speak?

A: The amount of Chinese you will be expected to speak when moving there for work will vary heavily depending on your industry, company, and location, ranging from zero (for English teaching) to fluent (if you are working for a local Chinese company). There is more widespread English among the younger generation, but you should learn at least the basics for everyday life.

*All information correct at the time of writing