Background on Key Figures and Context
The Chinese government has announced stricter controls on two chemicals, 1-Boc-4-AP and piperidón-4, which are precursors to the production of fentanyl. This move appears to be a gesture of goodwill directed towards the United States, which has accused China of being involved in the trade of these chemicals.
Wang Xiaohong, China’s Minister of Public Security, met with U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue last week to discuss collaboration in the fight against drugs. Perdue emphasized that the meeting aimed to convey President Donald Trump’s priorities for security cooperation between the U.S. and China, as well as collaboration to combat the fentanyl crisis.
New Regulations and Their Impact
According to a document published by six government agencies and reported by Bloomberg, 1-Boc-4-AP and piperidón-4 will be classified as hazardous substances under surveillance starting July 20th. The U.S. already regulates piperidón-4 as a fentanyl precursor, while 1-Boc-4-AP can be used to manufacture a fentanyl precursor.
This new initiative by the Chinese government reflects its active participation in global drug management and its commitment as a responsible major power.
Trade Negotiations and Existing Tariffs
While negotiations continue to avoid a 145% tariff on Chinese imports announced and then suspended by Trump, a 20% tariff linked to fentanyl remains in effect. The Trump administration argues that these tariffs will hold China accountable for not restricting the flow of drugs fueling the U.S. opioid crisis.
China, however, maintains that cooperation on fentanyl has been positive and that the U.S. owes China “enormous thanks” for curbing fentanyl-related contraband.
Key Questions and Answers
- What chemicals are being regulated? 1-Boc-4-AP and piperidón-4, which are precursors to fentanyl production.
- When will these new regulations take effect? The regulations will classify these chemicals as hazardous substances under surveillance starting July 20th.
- Why are China and the U.S. negotiating tariffs? To avoid a 145% tariff on Chinese imports and to address the U.S. opioid crisis fueled by fentanyl.
- What is China’s stance on the fentanyl crisis? China asserts that its cooperation in curbing fentanyl-related contraband has been positive and that it should be acknowledged by the U.S.
