Chinese human genetic resources to be banned for use abroad: Ministry of Science and Technology

Chinese human genetic resources will be banned for use abroad, China's Ministry of Science and Technology stipulated in its draft rules for the implementation of the regulations on the management of human genetic resources. The proposal was released on Tuesday for public consultation.

Human genetic resources refer to the genetic materials, such as organs, tissues and cells, which contain hereditary substances such as human genome and genes, according to the rules for the implementation of the regulations.

The plan stipulates that the collection, storage, utilization and supply of Chinese human genetic resources outside China should respect the privacy rights of the providers of human genetic resources and obtain consent in advance to ensure their health and protect their legitimate rights.

The activities of collection, storage and supply of Chinese human genetic resources conducted within China for use abroad must be carried out by Chinese scientific research institutions, colleges, medical institutions and enterprises.

Overseas organizations and individuals, and the institutions established or actually controlled by foreign stakeholders, are not allowed to collect and preserve Chinese human genetic resources inside China or provide Chinese human genetic resources outside the country.