The Human Genome Project (HGP) set the stage for global genetic research and sparked rapid development in gene sequencing technology. In China, domestic enterprises, led by MGI Tech Co., Ltd., have emerged as leaders in high-throughput sequencing through independent research and development.
Historically dominated by foreign companies, China’s DNA sequencing market faced challenges due to limited local R&D and strict international patent protections. To address this, the Ministry of Science and Technology included gene sequencing technology as a priority in the 13th Five-Year Plan, supporting breakthroughs in bio-omics, cloud computing, big data, and biomedical analysis.
Since its founding in 1999 as a genetics research centre within BGI Group, MGI has developed proprietary sequencing equipment and reagents. In 2013, MGI acquired Complete Genomics for US$117 million, further strengthening its capacity for high-throughput sequencer development. Today, MGI is among a select group of companies worldwide capable of mass-producing clinical-grade sequencers that rival international counterparts.
MGI’s ultra-high-throughput platform, DNBSEQ-T7, known as the “Super Life Computer”, offers fast, flexible sequencing with costs as low as $5 per billion base pairs. With patented technologies such as DNBSEQ sequencing, Patterned Array, and opto-electromechanical systems, MGI’s platforms provide high-quality data at reduced cost and increased throughput, supporting both research and clinical applications.
“In addition to creating broader application scenarios for genetic technology, our goal is to support large-scale population studies and clinical research,” said Mu Feng. “High-throughput, precise, and cost-effective sequencing enables precision medicine, agriculture and health initiatives to benefit all.”
In 2019, MGI launched its 676 Genome standards, a cost-effective solution for high-quality de novo genome assembly, advancing a “Full HD” era of genome sequencing. The same year, MGI contributed its sequencing platforms to the UAE National Genome Project, supporting large-scale population genomics and personalized healthcare development.
Operating in more than 50 countries, MGI serves over 1,000 customers, bringing accessible, high-performance genomic technology to research and clinical laboratories worldwide.
