As one of the largest and fastest-growing life sciences markets in the world, China is making significant strides in genomics, with DNA sequencing at the forefront of this transformation. With ambitious national strategies, substantial investments, and a massive population base, the Chinese market for DNA sequencing is poised for high growth.
Whether for precision medicine, agriculture, forensics, or population-scale genomics projects, China is not just adopting sequencing technology, it’s shaping its future.
According to market research, the Chinese DNA sequencing market is expected to grow from $1.2 billion in 2025. It is projected to reach $3.1 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.
The Market Landscape
The Chinese DNA sequencing market is currently in an acceleration phase, driven by rising healthcare demand, a maturing biotechnology ecosystem, and government-led initiatives such as the Healthy China 2030 strategy. While North America has traditionally led the global genomics race, China is rapidly catching up, both in terms of innovation and commercial scale.
What’s fueling this growth?
- A growing middle class with increasing healthcare expectations.
- Government-backed efforts to reduce dependency on foreign biotech firms.
- An increase in domestic sequencing capabilities and manufacturing.
- Massive genomic research projects involving large-scale population sequencing.
Key Drivers of Growth
- Precision Medicine Initiatives
The push toward personalized healthcare in China is a primary driver of growth. DNA sequencing enables the development of tailored treatments for cancer, rare diseases, and chronic illnesses. As hospitals and healthcare systems integrate genomic profiling into routine care, demand for sequencing tools and services is rising sharply.
- R&D Investment and Academic Output
China is now one of the top global funders of biotechnology research. Numerous public-private partnerships and academic institutions are engaged in genome science, with government grants encouraging breakthroughs in gene editing, single-cell sequencing, and clinical genomics.
- Population-Scale Genomics Projects
Inspired by the UK’s 100,000 Genomes Project and similar global efforts, China has launched several large-scale national sequencing initiatives. These include the ChinaMAP project, which aims to sequence over 10,000 individuals representing major ethnic groups, as well as city-level programs in places such as Shenzhen and Shanghai.
- Growth in Reproductive and Genetic Health Services
China’s urban population is increasingly opting for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), and hereditary cancer screenings. DNA sequencing lies at the heart of these services, opening new commercial opportunities for clinics and tech companies.
Technological Landscape and Local Players
Chinese companies are now building proprietary sequencing platforms, reducing their reliance on global giants like Illumina and Thermo Fisher. A few leading domestic players include:
- BGI Genomics: A global pioneer headquartered in Shenzhen, BGI is one of the most influential genomics companies worldwide. It has developed its own sequencing systems and conducts high-volume contract sequencing services.
- MGI Tech: A subsidiary of BGI, MGI offers competitive sequencing instruments and reagents, challenging Western market dominance with scalable and cost-effective solutions.
- Novogene: Specializing in high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics, Novogene serves research institutions and pharma companies both in China and globally.
These companies are supported by local supply chains for reagents, software, data storage, and analysis tools, creating a thriving genomics ecosystem.
