When Americans think about competition with China, they usually think about artificial intelligence, semiconductors, or advanced manufacturing. Yet another strategic race is quietly underway — one that could prove just as consequential to America’s economy, healthcare system, and national security: regenerative medicine.For decades, the United States has been the world’s unquestioned leader in biomedical research. American universities, biotechnology companies, physicians, and entrepreneurs have produced many of the medical breakthroughs that transformed modern healthcare. But leadership is never guaranteed. It must be continually earned.Today, China is investing aggressively in biotechnology, including regenerative medicine and advanced botanical research. Beijing has directed hundreds of billions of dollars toward strategic technologies, including biotechnology, as part of its long-term industrial policy to strengthen China’s global competitiveness. Regenerative medicine is a central component of that strategy. America should not seek to replicate another country’s regulatory system, but we should recognize the urgency with which our competitors are investing in the future of healthcare.