The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) has raised alarms about the risk of China’s military accessing Danish genetic information. PET warns that if China obtains DNA data from Denmark, it could misuse it to develop biological weapons.
The warning focuses on BGI Group. This major Chinese biotechnology company has collaborated with researchers at Danish universities for years. As a Chinese firm, BGI must comply with Chinese security laws. These laws allow the government to collect data from domestic companies. Experts believe BGI’s data collection poses military risks due to its collaboration with the Chinese military.
Experts indicate that if BGI continues its data collection practices, it could misuse the acquired genetic information in medicine or weaponry development.
BGI Group has denied the allegations regarding military use of DNA information. In a written statement, the company emphasized its commitment to all applicable laws in the countries where it operates. They insist they conduct their business ethically.
Both the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University previously engaged in research partnerships with BGI Group. However, both institutions suspended their collaborations with BGI earlier this year. Following suit, Danmarks Tekniske Universitet (DTU) and Syddansk Universitet (SDU) have also ended their partnerships.
In the United States, authorities have warned about BGI Group and its subsidiaries for years. Some entities have been blacklisted due to concerns that their activities could enable surveillance of minorities in China. As this issue gains international attention, the implications for research integrity and data security remain critical concerns for Denmark and beyond.
Source: TV2 The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) has raised alarms about the risk of China’s military accessing Danish genetic information.
