China drafts policy to block foreign buyouts of key cell-gene therapy and siRNA platforms

China’s government has released a draft amendment to its export blacklist that would prohibit or tightly control foreign purchases of certain biopharmaceutical platforms.

The rule targets proprietary technologies used in cell and gene therapy, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and pathogen gain-of-function platforms, which are defined as reusable toolsets that can support multiple drug programs.

Under the proposal, outright bans would apply to acquisitions, while other transfers would need regulatory approval, adding a new layer of scrutiny to cross-border deals.

The policy is part of a broader effort that also covers AI and photovoltaic technologies, and comes as foreign transactions involving Chinese biotech assets have already totaled about $120 billion this year.