BGI Asks For New Patent Trial After $8 Million Loss to Illumina

BGI Genomics Co. Ltd. said it deserves a new trial in a patent infringement suit over gene-sequencing technology, while arguing Illumina Inc. inflamed jurors and repeatedly maligned BGI’s China ties.

BGI is seeking a new trial after a jury in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California decided it owed $8 million for infringing Illumina patents. The infringement was found to be willful, which could allow a judge to increase the award.

China-based BGI said Illumina insinuated it is “aligned with stereotypes of communism or Chinese companies and/or business practices.” It focused, in particular, on what BGI ...