What Keir Starmer Can Learn From Japan on Managing Relations With China

Introduction

As the United Kingdom reassesses its foreign policy priorities under Labour leader Keir Starmer, relations with China remain one of the most complex challenges. Economic ties, national security concerns, and alliance commitments intersect in ways that require careful handling. Japan, which has managed a long and often difficult relationship with China, offers practical lessons that could inform Britain’s approach.

Japan’s experience shows how a country can maintain economic engagement with China while strengthening security and protecting strategic interests.



Japan’s Longstanding Relationship With China

Japan and China share decades of economic interdependence alongside deep political and historical tensions. Trade between the two countries has grown steadily, even during periods of diplomatic strain.

Japan has learned to separate economic cooperation from political disagreements, allowing dialogue and trade to continue even when disputes arise over security or regional influence.



Balancing Engagement and Caution

One key feature of Japan’s China policy is balance. Tokyo avoids framing China solely as an adversary while remaining clear about areas of concern, particularly in the East China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

This balanced posture allows Japan to maintain communication channels while preparing for potential risks, an approach the UK may find useful as it navigates similar tensions.



Economic Dependence and Risk Management

Japan relies heavily on Chinese markets for exports and manufacturing supply chains. Rather than cutting ties, Tokyo has focused on reducing vulnerabilities.

The Japanese government has supported diversification of supply chains and encouraged companies to avoid over-dependence on a single market, without abrupt disengagement.



Security Through Alliances

Japan’s security strategy is anchored in strong alliances, particularly with the United States. These partnerships provide deterrence while allowing Japan to maintain an independent diplomatic voice.

For the UK, this highlights the importance of reinforcing NATO and Indo-Pacific partnerships without adopting unnecessarily confrontational rhetoric.



Clear Red Lines Without Escalation

Japan clearly communicates its red lines on territorial integrity and regional stability. At the same time, it avoids public escalation that could close diplomatic options.

This approach underscores the value of quiet diplomacy, something Starmer has emphasized in his broader foreign policy vision.



Managing Technology and National Security

Japan has taken targeted steps to protect sensitive technologies without broad economic restrictions. Export controls and research safeguards are applied selectively.

This method contrasts with sweeping bans and may offer a more sustainable model for managing technology competition with China.



Domestic Consensus on China Policy

Japan’s China strategy benefits from broad political agreement across parties. This continuity allows long-term planning and reduces policy swings.

For the UK, building cross-party consensus could help ensure stability in China relations regardless of changes in government.



Human Rights and Diplomatic Language

Japan raises human rights concerns through diplomatic channels rather than public confrontation. Officials argue that consistent engagement can be more effective than public condemnation alone.

Starmer’s emphasis on international law could align with this approach, balancing values with diplomacy.



Economic Cooperation Without Strategic Naivety

Japan continues cooperation with China in areas such as climate policy and regional development while limiting strategic exposure.

This selective cooperation demonstrates that engagement does not require ignoring security considerations.



Lessons for UK Trade Policy

The UK’s post-Brexit trade strategy seeks new markets while maintaining security. Japan’s experience shows the importance of setting clear investment rules and screening mechanisms.

These tools allow openness while protecting critical infrastructure and industries.



The Role of Regional Institutions

Japan actively participates in regional forums to manage tensions and build norms. Multilateral engagement reduces bilateral pressure and promotes stability.

The UK’s growing interest in the Indo-Pacific could benefit from similar multilateral engagement rather than purely bilateral approaches.



Public Messaging and Consistency

Japanese leaders avoid frequent shifts in tone on China, providing predictable messaging to markets and allies.

Consistency, rather than reactive statements, may strengthen the UK’s credibility in managing complex global relationships.



Conclusion

Japan’s experience dealing with China offers practical lessons for Keir Starmer and UK policymakers. By balancing engagement with caution, maintaining alliances, and protecting national interests without unnecessary escalation, Japan has managed a difficult relationship with relative stability.

As the UK shapes its future China policy, adopting elements of Japan’s approach could help manage risks while preserving space for cooperati