China has announced stricter regulations on two chemicals essential for the production of fentanyl, a potent opioid linked to a deadly overdose crisis in the United States. The measures aim to curb the illicit manufacture and distribution of the drug, which has contributed to a surge in opioid-related deaths. However, an official from the Trump administration has criticized China for not doing enough to keep the drug out of the United States, stating that it is ‘the United States’ responsibility to solve the issue.’
The Trump administration has repeatedly raised concerns about China’s role in the opioid epidemic, accusing the country of not adequately restricting the export of fentanyl precursors. While China has taken steps to strengthen its regulatory framework, officials argue that these efforts fall short of what is necessary to combat the growing crisis. The issue highlights the complex interplay between international drug control efforts and domestic policy challenges, as both countries grapple with the consequences of the opioid epidemic.