U.S. House Passes Biosecure Act to Restrict Trade with Chinese Biotech Firms

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Biosecure Act, targeting business restrictions with several Chinese biotech companies, citing national security concerns. The bill, which must pass the Senate and reach President Biden for approval, has drawn criticism from Beijing and the targeted companies, who deny any security risk.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill on Monday aiming to limit business with Chinese biotech firms, including WuXi AppTec and BGI, due to national security concerns. This legislation, known as the Biosecure Act, also prohibits federal contracts with these firms and their business partners.

Proponents believe the measure is essential for protecting Americans' health and genetic information, as well as securing U.S. pharmaceutical supply chains. The bill saw significant support, passing with a vote of 306 to 81, well above the required two-thirds majority. It now moves to the U.S. Senate before potentially being signed into law by President Joe Biden.

The passage of the Biosecure Act has sparked significant debate. Representatives John Moolenaar and Raja Krishnamoorthi supported the bill, emphasizing its necessity, while opponents like Representative Jim McGovern questioned the criteria for targeting companies. The Chinese government has condemned the bill, with a spokesperson labeling it discriminatory. Several companies, including WuXi AppTec, have expressed disappointment, claiming the act unfairly designates them without due process.