For decades, the STA fostered scientific collaboration by providing a legal and political framework for American and Chinese researchers to secure funding and pursue joint projects.
But in recent years, the US has increasingly raised concern over research and personnel security, while calling for greater data reciprocity and a narrowing of permissible research areas.
Beijing, meanwhile, has also conveyed concerns about the safe and equal treatment of Chinese scientists in the US.
The agreement’s supporters say the deal shields American researchers working in China and fosters research in the US by granting access to crucial Chinese databases, especially in areas like health.