FT News Briefing US-China Tech Race: Spies and Lies (Part Two)
Apr 10, 2022
Nick Shenkin, an FBI special agent and head of the Strategic Technology Task Force in San Francisco, shares insights into the critical issue of Chinese intellectual property theft. He discusses how this espionage fuels China's rise as a tech superpower, examining tactics like insider threats and talent acquisition programs. The conversation highlights the growing distrust affecting US-China scientific collaboration and the implications for both national security and innovation. Shenkin's expertise sheds light on the complex dynamics of this high-stakes tech rivalry.
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Stolen Corn Seeds
- In 2011, a Monsanto field manager in Iowa discovered two Asian men digging up genetically modified corn seeds.
- They claimed to be with the University of Iowa but fled when the manager got distracted.
China's Tech Gains
- Michael Orlando notes the difficulty in understanding China's motives, citing the seemingly insignificant theft of corn seeds.
- However, he emphasizes that such thefts, combined with acquisitions and joint ventures, contribute to China's rapid technological advancement.
Apple's IP Theft
- Two Apple engineers were accused of stealing trade secrets related to Apple's self-driving car project.
- One engineer had over 100 photos of Apple facilities and proprietary material on his hard drive.