Chinese researchers charged with smuggling toxic fungus into US

US federal prosecutors have formally accused two Chinese nationals, Jian Yunqing (33) and Liu Zunyong (34), of illegally bringing a hazardous fungus into the United States. Authorities warn that this fungus could be used as a potential agroterrorism tool.

The charges, revealed by the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, include conspiracy, visa fraud, and making false statements to investigators. Both Jian and Liu are researchers; Liu reportedly smuggled the fungus Fusarium graminearum into the US to conduct experiments at the University of Michigan, where Jian works.

Fusarium graminearum causes a destructive crop disease known as "head blight," affecting wheat, barley, maize, and rice. This pathogen results in billions of dollars in annual agricultural losses worldwide. It also threatens human and animal health, causing symptoms like vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive problems.

The FBI and US Customs and Border Protection led the investigation, focusing on espionage and counterterrorism concerns. Jian was arrested earlier and is scheduled to appear in federal court this week. Officials are scrutinizing her connections to the Chinese government amid rising US concerns about Chinese infiltration.

Evidence suggests Jian received Chinese government funding for similar research in China. Liu was deported back to China in July 2024 after customs found the fungus in his luggage at Detroit airport. He admitted to bringing the fungus for research purposes at the University of Michigan.

Investigators also discovered communications indicating Jian’s awareness of the smuggling and her attempts to mislead officials. Due to the lack of an extradition agreement between the US and China, Liu is unlikely to face trial in the US.

FBI Director Kash Patel warned that China is actively attempting to infiltrate US institutions and target the food supply with severe consequences. The Chinese Embassy has not yet commented.

The University of Michigan condemned any acts that threaten national security or the institution’s mission. This case follows recent US moves to revoke visas of Chinese students linked to the Chinese Communist Party, amid heightened security concerns.