China’s narcotics control agency issues a cautionary statement against the manufacturing and sale of substances used in the production of illegal drugs. President Xi Jinping had previously declared China’s commitment to curbing the export of items associated with the opioid fentanyl.
The circular, released by the China National Narcotics Control Commission not only advises against engaging in activities linked to illegal drug production but also highlights the potential risk of falling under the “long-arm jurisdiction” of foreign law enforcement agencies.
During the summit in San Francisco, President Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden agreed on China taking measures to restrict the export of items connected to fentanyl production. As part of the agreement, China will target specific chemical companies producing fentanyl precursors. The narcotics agency’s circular underscores the potential legal consequences for individuals or companies involved in the sale, transport, or export of illegal drugs or precursor chemicals, including postal and logistics firms.
U.S. officials have long sought China’s cooperation to halt the flow of precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production, often linked to small chemical businesses in China. While China contends that addiction and demand for the drug are domestic issues in the U.S., the recent agreement reflects a step toward addressing the global impact of the illicit fentanyl trade.
