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 (DHS) announced on Wednesday that BGI Genomics, MGI Tech and Shenzhen BGI Technology, collectively associated with the BGI Group, had been added to the list of entities restricted under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act.
The law targets companies suspected of involvement in forced labour linked to China’s Xinjiang region, particularly activities affecting Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Kyrgyz and other persecuted minority groups.
According to the DHS, the companies allegedly assisted in collecting genetic material used to track members of these communities, including individuals subjected to forced labour.
The department explained that forced labour refers to work that individuals cannot freely refuse, adding that the United States would not allow companies linked to such practices and the surveillance of persecuted minorities to benefit from access to the American market.
US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the government was determined to prevent businesses allegedly connected to forced labour and the monitoring of vulnerable populations from profiting in the United States.
The decision comes amid longstanding international concerns over the treatment of Uyghurs and other predominantly Muslim minority groups in Xinjiang.
In 2022, the United Nations raised concerns that serious human rights violations had reportedly occurred in the region, warning that some of the alleged abuses could amount to crimes against humanity. The report also highlighted the detention of more than one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in camps.
China has consistently rejected allegations of human rights abuses in Xinjiang, insisting that accusations against its government are unfounded.
Following Washington’s latest decision, Beijing strongly condemned the import restrictions, describing them as lacking any factual basis.
A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce accused the United States of using human rights concerns as a justification for protectionist policies and economic pressure against Chinese businesses.
The spokesperson urged Washington to immediately stop what Beijing described as political manipulation and smear campaigns, adding that China would take necessary measures to protect its interests.
The affected companies have also rejected the allegations. BGI and MGI maintained that they oppose all forms of forced labour.
The latest restrictions come as the administration of US President Donald Trump intensifies its scrutiny of Chinese technology companies and strategic industries.
Last week, the administration proposed new rules aimed at restricting investment in Chinese biotechnology firms, reflecting broader concerns about the potential national security implications of technological cooperation between the two countries.
Other sectors facing increased scrutiny include artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing, both of which have become central to the growing economic and technological rivalry between Washington and Beijing.
The import ban further highlights the widening tensions between the two global powers over trade, human rights, national security and control of critical technologies.
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