Germany suspends Cispa cybersecurity director over China technology transfer concerns | The latest National and International News - upday NewsHandelsblatt. | The latest National and International News - upday News">Handelsblatt. | The latest National and International News - upday News">Handelsblatt. | The latest National and International News - upday News">

Germany suspends Cispa cybersecurity director over China technology transfer concerns

30 June 2026 · 19:40

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Germany's domestic intelligence agency has warned that China is pursuing global technological supremacy through extensive efforts to acquire technology and know-how from German research institutions. The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution identified China, alongside Russia and Iran, as one of the top three countries conducting intelligence operations against Germany, according to a report cited by Handelsblatt.

Beijing's long-term goal is to achieve global technological supremacy by 2049, the centenary of the People's Republic of China. To this end, China has been developing a comprehensive system for technology and know-how transfer for years, the BfV's counterintelligence division stated.

The activities include acquiring companies, establishing joint ventures, implementing talent acquisition programs, and engaging in scientific cooperation. German research institutions play a significant role and are not always aware of the extent of the threat, according to intelligence services.

Exploiting Academic Freedom

China is exploiting the principles of academic freedom and a lack of risk awareness in Germany for scientific collaboration, the report states. Chinese scientists in Germany may be enticed by financial incentives, career prospects, or obligations from state scholarship programs like the China Scholarship Council. Political and intelligence pressure is also a possibility.

The BfV report reminds that China's intelligence services law, in effect since 2017, obliges Chinese citizens to cooperate with intelligence agencies when necessary. German and foreign scientists are also targets, potentially being encouraged to share knowledge and technology.

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The focus areas include quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, hypersonic technology, and surveillance technologies.

Cispa Case Triggers Investigation

The concerns have materialized in the case of the Helmholtz Institute Cispa in Saarbrücken, which reportedly collaborated with Chinese scientists linked to the military and universities on US sanction lists. The Federal Republic of Germany, as a shareholder, appointed KPMG as special auditor to independently review these allegations.

The situation led to the suspension of the institute's scientific director and the halting of all research projects with Chinese partners. Questions have been raised about why certain issues at Cispa were not noticed earlier, especially given the institute's focus on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and satellite attacks.

Balancing Freedom and Security

Martin Keller, President of the Helmholtz Association, supported the inspections. He stated that academic freedom ends at the latest where the use of research by other states could endanger us. Keller noted...