Nanning, China, 16 September 2022 — The 19th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) opened in Nanning, Guangxi, where MGI showcased a range of gene sequencers, automated sample processing systems, smart lab systems, and an automated ultra-low-temperature biobank at the “Advanced Technology” section, demonstrating the company’s pivotal role in life sciences innovation.
Hardcore Technology Supporting Virus Traceability
CAEXPO, co-sponsored by the ministries of commerce and trade of China and the 10 ASEAN countries, as well as the ASEAN Secretariat, and organised by the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is an annual international event promoting trade and investment between ASEAN and China. This year’s advanced technology exhibition highlighted artificial intelligence, intelligent life, information technology, advanced manufacturing, new materials, medicine, and health. It brought together outstanding innovation achievements from China and ASEAN countries.
At the expo, MGI demonstrated its DNBSEQ-G400, a compact, flexible benchtop sequencer that supports two Flow Cell types. The Flow Cell Small (FCS) allows short turnaround for STAT samples, while the Flow Cell Large (FCL) reduces cost per sample. The DNBSEQ-G50 offers 3–4 read length options for both FCS and FCL, supporting a wide range of research and clinical applications.
The DNBelab-D4 digital sample preparation system, MGI’s first microfluidic automation platform, prepares samples from DNA to DNB on a single prep card and integrates automatic quantification. It is mainly used for high-throughput sequencing applications such as macro-genome sequencing of unknown pathogens. The system is suitable for infectious disease control sites, primary care institutions, mobile pathogen detection vehicles, field trips, and field hospitals, offering enhanced anti-contamination capacity, simpler operation, and convenient deployment.
Empowering Life Science Research in ASEAN Countries
MGI’s exhibits highlighted cooperation with ASEAN countries in trade, technology, and services. Its DNBSEQ-G400 supported the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC) in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, metagenomics, and RAD-seq. MGI also partnered with Singapore-headquartered MiRXES to build an ultra-high-throughput spatial genomics pipeline, accelerating spatio-temporal transcriptomics and multi-omics research.
In collaboration with Nalagenetics, another Singapore biotechnology company, MGI is advancing low-coverage whole genome sequencing for risk prediction and pharmacogenomics by optimising NGS workflows on its sequencing platform.
Earlier this year, MGI was selected as the designated technology provider for Indonesia’s First National Genome Project, supplying the ultra-high-throughput DNBSEQ-T7RS* sequencer, MGISP-960RS and MGISP-NE384RS automation systems, and the ZTRON data platform. These additions will enhance Indonesia’s genomic sequencing infrastructure and global competitiveness in life science innovation.
The project has been recognised as a successful example of China-ASEAN science and technology cooperation and was selected for inclusion in the “China-ASEAN Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Casebook,” showcasing academic exchange and collaborative achievements between China and ASEAN countries.
