China Alleges Foreign Theft of Genetic Data, Warns of National Security Threat

China's Ministry of State Security has issued a public warning, alleging that foreign entities are exploiting international research collaborations to illegally obtain the country's biological resources. In a statement, the ministry said the targeted collection of Chinese genetic data—including human genetic material—poses a direct threat to national security. It warned that the loss of such information could expose the biological foundations of the population and compromise "biosecurity," a term encompassing protection from biological threats. The ministry accused overseas organizations of using partnerships with domestic institutions, non-governmental groups, and individuals to gather biological samples under false pretenses. These samples are then allegedly smuggled out of China. The statement framed this activity as a new front in geopolitical competition. It argued that controlling genetic data is critical for developing biotechnology and securing public health. The warning signals heightened official sensitivity over biological data, which it views as a strategic national asset.