‘FRIGHTENING’: FBI says China targeted US food supply in ‘agroterrorism’ plot
In a case that has raised significant national security concerns, two Chinese nationals have been charged with smuggling a dangerous crop pathogen into the United States, allegedly intending to conduct unauthorized research at a U.S. university.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against Yunqing Jian, 33, a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Michigan, and her boyfriend, Zunyong Liu, 34, a researcher at Zhejiang University in China. The pair are accused of conspiring to illegally import Fusarium graminearum, a fungus known to cause Fusarium head blight—a devastating disease affecting staple crops such as wheat, corn, barley, and rice.
According to federal authorities, Liu was intercepted at Detroit Metropolitan Airport in July 2024 carrying concealed samples of the fungus in his backpack. Initially denying knowledge of the samples, Liu later admitted to bringing them into the U.S. without proper permits, intending to conduct research at the University of Michigan lab where Jian worked.
FBI investigations revealed electronic communications between Jian and Liu discussing plans to smuggle biological materials into the country. Further scrutiny uncovered Jian’s affiliations with the Chinese Communist Party and evidence of Chinese government funding for her research on the pathogen.
Fusarium graminearum is already present in the U.S.; however, concerns have been raised about the potential introduction of genetically modified or more virulent strains that could exacerbate crop damage and economic losses. The fungus produces toxins harmful to both humans and livestock, leading to vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive issues.
While Jian is currently in custody awaiting trial, Liu was deported back to China following his detention at the airport. Due to the absence of an extradition treaty between the U.S. and China, his return to face charges remains uncertain.
The case has intensified scrutiny over foreign researchers in U.S. institutions and highlighted vulnerabilities in biosecurity protocols. Lawmakers and security officials are calling for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent similar incidents that could threaten national food security.
As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks posed by the unauthorized importation of biological agents and the importance of safeguarding the nation’s agricultural infrastructure.
