China wants to replace U.S. biotech leadership, report warns.

The United States faces a growing national security risk from its reliance on China in the biopharmaceutical sector, according to a new report from the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). The report’s authors state that “China is overtly seeking to displace U.S. leadership across the innovative biopharmaceutical value chain.” That value chain includes the research, development, and production of new medicines. The CFR analysis warns that as China builds its own capabilities in this field, U.S. dependence on Chinese materials, manufacturing, and expertise could leave the country vulnerable. The report does not suggest an immediate cutoff but argues that the U.S. must reduce its reliance to protect both its economy and its national security. The authors call for a strategic response to counter China’s ambitions in this critical industry.