商务部答每经记者问：中英经贸关系正值“黄金时代” 中企在英累计直接投资近200亿美元

Group 1 - The UK government has introduced a white paper titled "National Security and Investment," which significantly lowers the threshold for foreign investment scrutiny from £70 million to £1 million, allowing for increased government intervention in potential national security risks [1] - The new regulations will require all foreign competitors, including Chinese companies, to report any mergers, acquisitions, or transactions that may pose a risk to UK national security, regardless of the transaction size [1] - The UK has recently approved a Chinese acquisition of a UK company, marking the first merger since the modification of the Companies Act, indicating a potential willingness to engage with foreign investments despite new scrutiny measures [2] Group 2 - The Chinese government has expressed its respect for the UK's right to conduct national security reviews on foreign investments, while also urging the UK to maintain non-discriminatory practices and transparency in its review processes [2] - As of now, Chinese companies have invested nearly $20 billion in the UK, establishing over 500 enterprises, which have contributed significantly to local employment and tax revenue [2] - The Chinese government emphasizes the importance of fair treatment for foreign investors to maintain confidence and avoid creating new uncertainties for foreign investments in the UK [2]