On December 19, 2025, the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) released a significant paper titled “The Future of U.S.-China Biotechnology Competition.” The report emphasizes that while the United States has historically been a leader in biotechnology, China has made substantial advances over the last two decades. This development positions China to effectively challenge U.S. supremacy in this critical sector.
The NSCEB outlines that China’s biotechnology sector has evolved into a vertically integrated ecosystem, supported by strategic government policies and non-market practices. The paper argues that this competitive stance is fueled by a comprehensive approach from the Chinese government, asserting that “the Chinese Communist Party’s whole-of-nation approach to biotechnology will further undercut the U.S. industry.”
According to the NSCEB, immediate policy action is essential for the United States to maintain its competitive edge. The report warns that failing to act could result in significant losses for the U.S. biotechnology industry, including the relocation of jobs, research initiatives, and growth opportunities to China.
China’s Strategic Advances in Biotechnology
The NSCEB’s report serves as a continuation of its previous analyses regarding U.S.-China competition in biotechnology. It establishes a new benchmark by documenting the empirical evidence of China’s growing lead in this field, along with the policy and investment mechanisms driving its progress.
The paper highlights that China’s investments in biotechnology are not merely reactive but rather a strategic initiative aimed at achieving global leadership. This systematic approach has enhanced China’s capabilities in various areas of biotechnology, including pharmaceuticals, agricultural biotechnology, and bio-manufacturing.
The implications of this competition extend beyond economic considerations; they also encompass national security and global health. The NSCEB urges U.S. policymakers to recognize the strategic importance of biotechnology and the risks associated with underestimating China’s ambitions in this domain.
Policy Recommendations for the U.S.
In light of the findings, the NSCEB has recommended several measures for the United States to reinforce its biotechnology ecosystem. These recommendations include increasing public and private investment in research and development, fostering collaboration between academia and industry, and enhancing workforce training in biotechnology-related fields.
The report underscores the urgency for the United States to adapt to the rapidly evolving biotechnology landscape. It calls for a cohesive national strategy that aligns resources and encourages innovation to ensure sustained competitiveness against China’s burgeoning biotechnology sector.
As the U.S. navigates this complex landscape, the NSCEB’s insights could prove crucial in shaping policies that bolster American leadership in biotechnology. The competition between the U.S. and China not only highlights the significance of biotechnology in the global economy but also raises essential questions about future advancements in health and technology.
