In a startling case that has raised alarms in national security and agricultural circles, U.S. authorities have charged two Chinese nationals with smuggling a potentially destructive crop fungus, Fusarium graminearum, into the United States. The fungus, commonly known for causing Fusarium head blight in wheat and other grains, is classified as a potential agent of agroterrorism due to its capacity to devastate food supplies and produce harmful toxins.
According to federal prosecutors, 33-year-old Yunqing Jian and her 34-year-old boyfriend Zunyong Liu conspired to bring the live fungal samples from China to a lab at the University of Michigan, where Jian was conducting research. Liu was intercepted in July 2024 at Detroit Metropolitan Airport with suspicious red plant material. Subsequent analysis revealed the samples contained the live fungus without appropriate permits or declarations.
Court documents allege that the couple had previously discussed plans to covertly transport biological materials, and that Jian was directly funded by the Chinese government to conduct agricultural research. She is also reported to be a member of the Chinese Communist Party. Liu told investigators the materials were for academic use but had no authorization to import such a hazardous pathogen into the country.
Fusarium graminearum is notorious among plant pathologists for its ability to wipe out cereal crops and contaminate grain with mycotoxins—poisonous substances that can affect both livestock and humans. The economic damage caused by this fungus can run into billions, and its use as a potential biological weapon has been discussed in academic and security communities.
While Jian has been arrested and is awaiting her court hearing in Detroit, Liu returned to China shortly after the incident. With no extradition treaty in place, U.S. officials say it’s unlikely he’ll face trial unless he returns to American soil.
The University of Michigan has stated that it is fully cooperating with federal investigators and was unaware of any illegal activity. The school denied receiving any foreign government funding related to the research in question.
This incident marks one of the most serious biosecurity threats in recent years and highlights vulnerabilities in the oversight of international scientific collaboration. Federal agents warned that had the fungus spread unchecked, it could have caused widespread agricultural damage and food supply disruptions in the U.S.
The Department of Justice is treating the case as both a criminal violation and a potential threat to national food security. Investigations are ongoing to determine if other institutions or individuals were involved.
