US Bans BGI Group, 2 Affiliates Over Xinjiang Labour Links
US blocks shipments from Chinese biotech firms BGI Group, BGI Genomics, and MGI Tech
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The US has blocked shipments from Chinese biotech companies BGI Group, BGI Genomics, and MGI Tech due to alleged ties to forced labour in China's Xinjiang region.
The Department of Homeland Security made this decision after determining that these companies are either sourcing materials from Xinjiang or working with the regional government to support forced labour.
The companies have been added to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List for their role in collecting genetic material used to track persecuted ethnic minorities in Xinjiang.
BGI Group has rejected the allegations, stating that it has not engaged in any form of forced labour and opposes all forms of forced labour.
The US has been concerned about BGI Group's alleged ties to the Chinese government and its access to massive genetic data, which could potentially hurt US national security and commercial interests.
Frequently asked questions
Why did the US ban BGI Group and its affiliates?
The US banned BGI Group and its affiliates due to alleged ties to forced labour in China's Xinjiang region.
What is the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act?
The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act is a law that aims to prevent forced labour in Xinjiang, China, and has been used to blacklist companies suspected of supporting forced labour.
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