Chinese Researchers Accused of Plotting to Smuggle Crop-Destroying Fungus into US, Threatening Food Supply, Feds Say

National security officials and congressional members are expressing serious concerns regarding an alleged scheme involving two Chinese researchers who reportedly planned to smuggle a harmful crop-destroying fungus into the United States.

Yunqing Jian, 33, a researcher at the University of Michigan with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, and her boyfriend Zunyong Liu, 34, are at the center of this investigation. The FBI claims that Liu attempted to bring samples of Fusarium graminearum into the country last July, a pathogen known for its destructive impact on crops.

Authorities apprehended Liu at Detroit Metropolitan Airport after he allegedly tried to conceal packages containing the fungus. “This is an attack on the American food supply,” stated a senior official from the previous administration.

While Fusarium graminearum is already present in the U.S., experts warn that if it were genetically altered to resist treatments or spread more effectively, it could wreak havoc on American agriculture. “The key question is whether the strain being brought in has been modified,” one agricultural microbiology expert noted.

Concerns about biological threats from China are not new. Allegations have surfaced regarding the Wuhan Institute of Virology's involvement in enhancing the virus responsible for COVID-19 through U.S.-funded research. Although China denies these claims, U.S. intelligence agencies suggest that a lab leak is the most plausible explanation for the pandemic's origin.

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rick Crawford emphasized the potential economic ramifications, stating, “A pathogen like this could inflict significant losses on U.S. agricultural producers.”

Senator Joni Ernst remarked on the FBI's interception of what she described as a “potential bioweapon,” expressing gratitude that federal authorities acted swiftly to protect the nation’s food supply.

According to federal documents, Jian and Liu discussed methods for smuggling Fusarium graminearum into the U.S., labeling it a potential agroterrorism weapon capable of devastating crops and harming livestock and humans alike.

Both individuals face multiple charges, including conspiracy and visa fraud. The fungus primarily infects wheat, barley, corn, and rice, leading to significant agricultural losses. “If the Chinese manipulated the strain, it could be dangerous,” warned a national security source.

Liu arrived in Detroit on July 27, 2024, claiming he was visiting Jian. Customs agents discovered four plastic bags containing fibrous material infected with the fungus hidden in his backpack. Initially denying ownership of the items, Liu later admitted they were different strains of Fusarium graminearum intended for research at Jian's laboratory.

Investigators found a filter paper with coded samples that would allow for propagation of live Fusarium graminearum. Liu intended to clone these strains if initial experiments failed. He was subsequently denied entry and sent back to China.

During a search of Liu's phone, authorities uncovered an article discussing plant-pathogen warfare that specifically mentioned Fusarium graminearum as a destructive pathogen causing billions in economic losses globally.

Jian was interviewed by the FBI in February, where she claimed ignorance of Liu's smuggling plans. However, investigators found a loyalty pledge she signed at Zhejiang University, affirming her allegiance to Communist Party principles.

Further communications between Jian and Liu revealed prior discussions about smuggling the fungus into the U.S., including suggestions on concealing materials in shoes. In August 2022, Jian entered San Francisco without declaring any biological materials.

Dr. Richard Ebright from Rutgers University highlighted that while Fusarium graminearum has been endemic in the U.S. for decades, its importation without proper permits should not have occurred. He noted that unless the strain was newly modified, it likely posed no additional threat to U.S. agriculture.

Jian, who previously held a postdoctoral position at the University of Michigan, was temporarily detained in June and is awaiting a hearing. Liu remains at large with an active warrant for his arrest.