"During her questioning, it was revealed that she planned to use her visit as a research scholar to probe US companies for data regarding sensitive technologies. The traveler then admitted that she planned to take the data back to China to implement those proprietary processes there", the release said.
Upon discovering that her stated intent went far beyond the scope of activities allowed by her visa classification, CBP Officers allowed her to withdraw her application for admission and she was returned to China.
CBP Acting Port Director Robert Larkin in the release said preventing intellectual property theft is a major trade priority for the United States.
The US and China are expected to sign a "Phase One" trade agreement later this year which is to cover key trade issues, including intellectual property.