China Issues Human Genetic Resources Management Regulations

Those seeking to conduct research involving human genetic material within the People's Republic of China or to import into China such material should review China's recently issued draft regulations ("Draft") for the management of its human genetic resources. The regulations apply to the collection, preservation, research, development, immigration and other activities involving human genetic material.

The Draft provides provides that only legal entities established by law in China may engage in the collection and preservation of human genetic material. Foreign entities can conduct research with the cooperation of a Chinese entity. Such cooperation shall be subject to the approval of Ministry of Science and Technology of P.R.C (MOST). In addition, the foreign entity shall ensure that staff from the Chinese entity take part in the substantive research and development activity during the collaboration. Though the Draft does not provide that the Chinese party will retain