WIREDGOV

On 30 September 2026, MI5 issued a Security Service Espionage Alert stating that the primary purpose of the China General Technology Research Institute (CGTRI)  中国通用技术研究院 is to fund research that directly improves Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) technical capability for espionage. CGTRI funds academic research in China on topics including AI and cybersecurity.  More than 100 UK-linked academics have contributed to research projects funded by MSS via CGTRI.  In some cases, academics may not be aware that CGTRI is funding the Chinese research project they are contributing to.

The alert advises UK academic institutions to immediately review any ongoing or planned collaboration with CGTRI and advises academics to establish the ultimate funding source when conducting any research collaboration with Chinese institutions to ensure CGTRI are not involved.

It puts the fact that CGTRI has very strong ties to MSS in the public domain and states that academic institutions, staff and researchers should ensure they are aware of the National Security Act 2023.  Any institution or individual continuing to conduct research ultimately funded by CGTRI should take their own independent legal advice. 

To access the full alert please click here to download.

Click here for Trusted Research guidance produced by the National Protective Security Authority.