US Blocks Imports From 3 Chinese Genetics Companies Over Forced Labor Concerns

The United States has moved to block imports from BGI Genomics, MGI Tech, and Shenzhen BGI Technology, collectively known as BGI Group. These Chinese genetics companies are accused of assisting in the transfer of persecuted minorities into forced labor in China’s Xinjiang region. The Department of Homeland Security added these companies to a federal forced-labor list, meaning U.S. customs authorities will generally prevent their goods from entering the country.

• The U.S. is blocking imports from three Chinese genetics companies: BGI Genomics, MGI Tech, and Shenzhen BGI Technology (BGI Group).
• These companies are accused of helping authorities in China’s Xinjiang region transfer Uyghurs and other persecuted minorities into forced labor.
• The Department of Homeland Security added the companies to a federal forced-labor list.
• U.S. customs authorities will presume goods made by these companies were produced with forced labor and block their entry.
• Importers can seek exceptions by providing evidence that forced labor was not used.