House Passes Bill to Restrict Business with Chinese Biotech Firms

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Biosecure Act to limit business with Chinese biotech companies on national security grounds. The bill, which still needs Senate approval, aims to protect health and genetic data and secure pharmaceutical supply chains. Beijing has condemned the legislation.

In a significant legislative move, the U.S. House of Representatives on Monday passed the Biosecure Act, a bill intended to restrict business dealings with Chinese biotech companies, including WuXi AppTec and BGI, citing national security concerns. The bill, which was passed with overwhelming support, must still clear the U.S. Senate before becoming law.

Proponents of the legislation argue it is crucial for protecting Americans' personal health and genetic information, as well as securing U.S. pharmaceutical supply chains. However, the bill has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing. The Chinese foreign ministry labeled the move as discriminatory and vowed to protect the interests of Chinese enterprises.

The legislative initiative reflects heightened scrutiny of Chinese companies in sensitive sectors. Despite the strong vote in the House, the bill's path in the Senate remains uncertain, leaving key stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries concerned about its potential impact on biotechnology innovation and drug development.

(With inputs from agencies.)