We are puzzled by and greatly regret the decision of the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the U.S. Department of Commerce to include two BGI Group entities on the list of Chinese entities facing sanctions. 

BGI Group does not engage in unethical practices and does not provide gene technology for the surveillance of Uighurs. BGI Group does not condone and would never be involved in any human-rights abuses.

The “Xinjiang Silk Road BGI” subsidiary mentioned was established in November 2016 and has not carried out actual business so far. 

The other mentioned subsidiary “Beijing Liuhe BGI” provides commercial Sanger sequencing services for researchers and scientists conducting basic scientific research. It is unclear why this subsidiary has been included on the list of entities facing sanctions and how its services or products could be used with respect to the allegations made.

BGI Group strictly abides by all international business practices and laws and regulations, conducts business operations in compliance with regulations on a global scale, and is committed to making positive contributions to public health in various countries and regions.

BGI Group is confident that it can continue to protect the interests of its customers, partners, investors and employees to the maximum.

BGI Group 
July 21, 2020