Thermo Fisher Says It Has Halted Sales of DNA Technology in Tibet

Instrumentation maker Thermo Fisher Scientific has announced that it will no longer sell certain DNA-based human-identification products in Tibet due to concerns over potential misuse by local police forces. This move follows a similar ban implemented almost five years ago in China’s Xinjiang region. The company did not specify whether these regional actions will impact its business in other parts of China.

Key Points:

• Thermo Fisher no longer sells DNA technology products in Tibet
• Similar ban implemented in Xinjiang region five years ago
• Concerns over potential misuse by local police forces
• Impact on Thermo Fisher’s business in other parts of China unclear

Thermo Fisher Scientific, based in Waltham, Mass., has come under scrutiny in Congress due to its business operations in China and Tibet. Human-rights groups have raised concerns about the potential for police forces to misuse DNA technology for surveillance and control purposes. Thermo Fisher’s decision to halt sales in Tibet and Xinjiang was a response to pressure from these groups.

While there are no specific details about the impact on Thermo Fisher’s business in other parts of China, the company may face further challenges as it navigates the complex relationship between human rights and business interests in the country. This development highlights the growing awareness and consideration of ethical concerns in the use of DNA technology and surveillance practices by governments and corporations worldwide.

Thermo Fisher’s decision to halt sales in Tibet and Xinjiang may also have broader implications for other companies operating in China. As human-rights concerns continue to gain international attention, companies may face increasing pressure to evaluate their involvement in regions where human rights are at risk.