The United States has banned imports from three Chinese genomics companies over allegations that they collected genetic material used to monitor persecuted ethnic minorities in China’s Xinjiang region.
The US Department of Homeland Security announced on Wednesday that BGI Genomics, MGI Tech and Shenzhen BGI Technology, collectively associated with BGI Group, had been added to the Entity List under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.
The list identifies organisations alleged to have worked with authorities in Xinjiang to recruit, transport, transfer, harbour or receive people from persecuted groups for forced labour.
The United Nations warned in 2022 that possible crimes against humanity had occurred in the region, including the detention of more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in camps.
China has repeatedly denied allegations of human rights abuses against the Uyghur population.
According to the US Department of Homeland Security, the companies helped collect genetic material that could be used to track persecuted ethnic minorities, including people subjected to forced labour.
US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said Washington would not allow companies allegedly connected to forced labour and the surveillance of persecuted minorities to profit from the American market.
China condemns US decision
China strongly criticised the import restrictions on Thursday, describing the action as lacking a factual basis.
A spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry accused the United States of using human rights concerns as a justification for unilateral protectionist measures and economic pressure.
Beijing urged Washington to end what it described as political manipulation and smear campaigns, adding that it would take necessary steps to protect its interests.
BGI and MGI also denied the allegations, stating that they opposed all forms of forced labour.
The latest action comes amid broader efforts by the administration of US President Donald Trump to restrict China’s access to American markets and technology.
The Trump administration proposed new rules the previous week aimed at limiting investment in Chinese biotechnology companies.
Other sectors facing increased scrutiny include artificial intelligence and computer chips, which remain central to the economic and technological competition between Washington and Beijing.
Source: Vanguard
