In a significant diplomatic move aimed at tackling the persistent issue of illegal Channel crossings, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to formalise a new border security agreement with China. The pact, which represents the first visit by a British prime minister to China in eight years, specifically targets the disruption of supply chains for small boats used by people smuggling gangs operating across the English Channel.
Targeting the Source of Smuggling Equipment
Government analysis reveals that over 60% of the small boat engines utilised by criminal networks facilitating Channel crossings originate from Chinese manufacturers. This statistic underscores the critical need for international cooperation to address what has become a complex transnational crime issue. The new agreement will establish a framework for UK law enforcement agencies, including the National Crime Agency, to collaborate directly with their Chinese counterparts.
Intelligence Sharing and Manufacturer Engagement
The bilateral pact will facilitate the exchange of intelligence between British and Chinese authorities to identify and dismantle the intricate supply routes exploited by smuggling organisations. A key component involves engaging with legitimate Chinese manufacturers to prevent their products from being diverted to criminal enterprises. This proactive approach aims to protect businesses from unwitting involvement in organised crime while simultaneously choking off the material resources available to smuggling gangs.
During his meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, Sir Keir emphasised the borderless nature of organised immigration crime. "Our approach to shut them down must do the same," he stated, highlighting the necessity of cross-border solutions. The Prime Minister further articulated that this agreement would help "cut off the supply of boats at source", thereby preventing dangerous crossings and restoring control to UK borders.
Broader Immigration and Drug Enforcement Cooperation
Beyond the immediate focus on small boat disruption, the agreement encompasses additional measures to strengthen border security. These include scaling up the removal of individuals with no legal right to remain in the United Kingdom and intensifying collaborative efforts to combat the trafficking of synthetic opioids. This multifaceted approach reflects a comprehensive strategy to address interconnected security challenges.
Law Enforcement Perspective on International Collaboration
Rick Jones, Deputy Director at the National Crime Agency, welcomed the agreement, noting that disrupting people smuggling business models remains a top priority. "This agreement will enable us to work with Chinese law enforcement to tackle those gangs who exploit the most vulnerable," he explained. Jones emphasised the NCA's commitment to constructive international partnerships that protect individuals from harm and prevent legitimate companies from being drawn into criminal activities.
The urgency of this diplomatic initiative is underscored by recent migration statistics. In 2025, a total of 41,472 migrants arrived in the UK via small boat Channel crossings, marking the second-highest annual figure ever recorded. This persistent trend demonstrates the ongoing challenges faced by border authorities and the critical need for innovative, cooperative solutions that extend beyond national jurisdictions.
Sir Keir Starmer positioned this agreement as evidence of Britain reclaiming a leadership role on the global stage, asserting that it delivers "real results for the British people through our international relationships." The success of this border security pact will depend on sustained implementation and the continued willingness of both nations to share intelligence and coordinate enforcement actions against sophisticated criminal networks operating across continents.
