UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is making history this week by becoming the first British leader to visit a Pacific Island country. His visit to Samoa, as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), marks a significant moment for both the UK and the Commonwealth.
The trip comes as the Prime Minister seeks to forge closer economic ties and promote sustainable growth within the Commonwealth’s diverse membership, aiming to turn shared challenges into opportunities.
A Landmark Visit for Economic Collaboration
Starmer’s historic visit to Samoa is not just symbolic but strategic. The Prime Minister is set to address the pressing global challenges Commonwealth nations face today—climate change, energy security, and economic sustainability.
With six of the world’s ten fastest-growing economies projected to be Commonwealth members by 2027, this visit comes at a pivotal moment for shaping the future of global trade.
By highlighting the Commonwealth’s collective strength—spanning established markets such as Canada and India, alongside emerging ones like Uganda and Bangladesh—Starmer is expected to advocate for increased economic collaboration.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to fix the foundations and change our country’s story to turn around the lives of everyday people in the UK,” Starmer said ahead of the summit.
The Economic Potential of the Commonwealth
The Commonwealth already accounts for 9% of UK trade, worth £164 billion in 2023, and boasts a combined GDP that is expected to exceed $19.5 trillion by 2027. This economic heft offers untapped potential for both developed and developing nations within the grouping, making it an attractive forum for growth and innovation.
To further solidify these economic partnerships, Starmer will unveil a new UK Trade Centre of Expertise. Operating under the Foreign Office, this centre will provide technical assistance to developing Commonwealth nations, helping them access global markets and compete more effectively.
This initiative aims to drive export-led growth while opening up new markets for UK businesses.
Economic Snapshot of the Commonwealth
| Year | Commonwealth Contribution to UK Trade | Combined GDP of Commonwealth | Fastest-Growing Economies |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | £164 billion | $19.5 trillion (expected by 2027) | Guyana, Rwanda, Bangladesh, Uganda, India, Mozambique |
Addressing Global Challenges Together
Starmer’s Pacific trip is part of the UK’s broader foreign policy to create sustainable, long-term growth through international cooperation. Alongside Commonwealth leaders, Starmer will focus on easing barriers to trade and investment, particularly for smaller and more vulnerable economies.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy echoed this sentiment, stating,
“Forging stronger ties with these markets is crucial for delivering jobs and economic growth. This government is reconnecting Britain in the world and building partnerships that will unlock greater prosperity for all.”
The Commonwealth will unveil the Investment Plan of Action at CHOGM, mobilizing investment across member nations to lift economies out of poverty. This initiative aims to drive development and reduce pressure on UK Aid, ultimately benefiting British taxpayers over time.
Strengthening the Commonwealth’s Future
Beyond the economic focus, the CHOGM summit will also address other pressing issues, including climate change, democracy, and education. Starmer will meet with business leaders to explore how UK enterprises can tap into growing Commonwealth markets, furthering investment into the UK.
As the Commonwealth continues to evolve, this summit represents an opportunity to shape its future direction and unlock its economic potential.
For Britain, engaging with both long-standing allies and emerging economies in the Commonwealth is not just a diplomatic effort but a pragmatic approach to securing economic resilience in an increasingly competitive global market.
The Prime Minister’s visit to Samoa is a bold step towards strengthening the UK’s ties within the Commonwealth and positioning it as a leader in driving economic growth across some of the world’s most dynamic economies.
Sources: THX News, Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street, The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP & The Rt Hon David Lammy MP.
