STAT+: Trump administration removes WuXi AppTec from its Chinese military list

Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter.After months of skirmishing, the Trump administration removed WuXi AppTec, a key contract developer and manufacturer for the pharmaceutical industry, from its list of “Chinese military companies” operating in the U.S. The U.S. Department of Defense took this step to comply with a court ruling last August, according to a notice with the Federal Register. At the time, a U.S. District Court judge temporarily blocked the administration from pursuing the designation after WuXi filed a lawsuit arguing it was arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act. Two months earlier, the administration had placed WuXi AppTec on the list over concerns that the company has ties to the Chinese government and military, and that U.S. biotech leadership is at risk due to growing competition from Chinese companies. WuXi is seen by China hawks in Washington as a rising threat to national security. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe