This week, UK government ministers are seizing the spotlight at the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, to promote Britain as a prime destination for global
investment. With the most prominent UK presence at the event in recent years, they aim to demonstrate why Britain is the ideal place for businesses to thrive.
Key Highlights of the UK Delegation at Davos:
- Prominent Representation: Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds are leading the UK delegation.
- Engaging with Global Leaders: Ministers are holding discussions with top CEOs and investors to emphasize the UK's appeal as a business hub.
- Focus on Investment Now: The UK delegation is underscoring the urgent opportunity for global businesses to invest in Britain.
Britain’s Competitive Edge
The ministers are promoting Britain’s political and economic stability, backed by a government committed to supporting businesses. Key selling points include:
Pro-Business Policies: Efforts to reduce regulatory burdens and implement ambitious planning reforms.
Global Connectivity: Leveraging strong trade relationships with Europe, the US, Asia, and the Gulf.
Recognition of UK’s Potential: A recent PwC survey ranks the UK as the world’s second-most attractive investment destination, behind the US – a first in the survey’s 28-year history.
Events and meetings at Davos
Chancellor Reeves and Secretary Reynolds have a packed agenda:
- High-Profile Panels and Discussions: Both will participate in events such as the Bloomberg panel and the Country Strategic Dialogue with leaders from Google and Accenture.
- Engagements with CEOs: Meetings with prominent business figures, including JP Morgan’s Jamie Dimon and Goldman Sachs’ David Solomon.
- Global Issues Roundtable: The Chancellor will join finance ministers to discuss pressing global economic challenges.
- CBI Luncheon: Reeves will address 50 senior executives and international investors.
Secretary Reynolds will also engage with international trade leaders, including Germany’s Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck and WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. He plans to meet with executives from major firms such as AWS, Carlsberg, and RWE.
A platform for growth
The UK government’s presence at Davos highlights its unwavering commitment to attracting foreign investment and fostering a business-friendly environment. By capitalizing on international interest, ministers aim to position Britain as a global leader in innovation, trade, and economic resilience.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:
“Business leaders and investors need to know that the UK is where their businesses will flourish, so I’m meeting them face to face in Davos to make our case. We are one of the most exciting places in the world for them to put their money, with a history of innovation, a skilled workforce and a stable government that backs business.
I will not rest until the UK economy is growing and this government is delivering on its Plan for Change, so we can put more money in people’s pockets. The time to invest in Britain is now».
Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said:
«Britain is back in business under this government, and our Plan for Change is already delivering for working people.
The UK is the most connected market on earth, and we will continue to be the home for innovative businesses looking to face outwards to the world. We’ve lifted barriers to investment and secured £63 billion at the International Investment Summit, creating thousands of jobs in the process. These investments promise better wages, stronger communities, and better services and I’ll be at Davos to build on this momentum».
Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Executive, said:
«Boosting global trade remains a central component of the government’s growth mission, and that’s why it is so important to use this opportunity to fly the flag for British business and secure vital investment for the UK economy.
As we navigate a world of uncertainty and tensions, the UK must use its position as a G7 nation to champion free and fair trade and the benefits it delivers not just for our economy and society, but also in delivering the investment needed to tackle climate change and other global challenges». Photo by World Economic Forum, Wikimedia commons.