As part of its “Made in China 2025” campaign, the Chinese government is embarking on a massive, state-led drive to acquire DNA from both its own citizens and the citizens of the world, including Americans. The intent? To not only become a biotech superpower – but to have the ability to create bioweapons that target specific DNA strands.
As an example, the Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI), used a loan from China Development Bank to acquire 128 HiSeq 2000 sequencers, as well as U.S. sequencing company, Complete Genomics. In the process, BGI obtained access to a DNA database that contains the private genetic information of a large number of Americans.
And BGI isn’t the only Chinese company to process the genetic information of Americans. According to a USCC report, 23 companies associated with China are currently accredited in the US to perform molecular diagnostics or other genetic testing, including whole genome sequencing. Each of these companies, “has access to individual patients’ genetic data.” Hospitals, clinics, and even some commercial DNA testing companies in the U.S. now routinely send DNA samples to China for analysis.
Biotechnology, however, is a dual-use technology – meaning it can be used for both civilian and military purposes – thus creating a critical national security risk. Whole populations could potentially be targeted.
“We know that the Asian genome is genetically distinct from the Caucasian and African in many ways.” Says President of the Population Research Institute, Steven Mosher.
“Would it be possible to bioengineer a very virulent version of, say, smallpox, that was easily transmitted, fatal to other races, but to which the Chinese enjoyed natural immunity? While no use of an advanced, genetically targeted bio-weapon has been reported, it wouldn’t be beyond the reach of China’s biotech industry.” Mosher continued.
The full PDF version of this press release can be read here.
###
The Population Research Institute (PRI) is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit organization dedicated to promoting respect for human rights in the context of population issues. To learn more about PRI’s work, visit www.pop.org.
Steven W. Mosher is the president of the Population Research Institute and the author of “Bully of Asia: Why China’s Dream is the New Threat to World Order.” He studied human biology at Stanford University under famed geneticist Luigi Cavalli-Sforza.
