Is Cross-Border Transfer of Human Genetic Data an Impossible Mission?

Abstract

The cross-border transfer of human genetic data plays a crucial role in the open sharing of genetic information, significantly influencing the development of life sciences. However, human genetic data encompass not only personal interests but also national welfare, making its international movement a complex global issue. This article compares the policies governing the cross-border transfer of human genetic data in the United States, the European Union, and China—three key regions with substantial human genetic data resources and markets. It examines the potential impacts of these policies on scientific advancement and technological progress. Through this analysis, it is evident that the three regions share commonalities: they both promote human genetic data circulation while imposing protective restrictions. Based on these insights, it can be concluded that cross-border transmission of human genetic data is a challenging but ultimately achievable task, rather than an impossible one.