US, China reach deal to curb exports of fentanyl chemicals
What's the story
The US and China have reached a major agreement to restrict the export of chemical precursors used in the production of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that has been responsible for tens of thousands of American deaths. The deal was announced by FBI Director Kash Patel during a White House briefing on Wednesday. He said China has agreed to control seven chemical subsidiaries used in fentanyl production, following its own decision to impose export controls on over a dozen such precursors.
Supply disruption
Agreement aimed at disrupting fentanyl supply chain
Patel emphasized that the agreement is aimed at disrupting the supply chain of fentanyl, which has caused a public health crisis in the US. He said, "These substances are now banned, and they will no longer be utilized by Mexican drug trafficking organizations or any other [drug trafficking organizations] around the world to make this drug." The FBI director also stressed that President Donald Trump has effectively shut off the pipeline that produces fentanyl responsible for thousands of American deaths.
Trip details
FBI director reveals details of Asia trip
Patel also revealed that his team's recent trip through Asia was largely focused on the fentanyl crisis. He said, "This was the first time in a decade that an FBI Director has received an audience with his counterpart to discuss the fentanyl crisis directly." The FBI chief added that cutting off precursors is key to crushing the drug trafficking industry and starving deadly drug pipelines fueled by Mexican cartels.
Leadership impact
Patel credits Trump for successful agreement
Patel credited President Trump's leadership and direct engagement with Chinese President Xi Jinping for the successful agreement. He said, "Thanks to President Trump's leadership and direct engagement with President Xi, we reached an agreement to have all 13 listed, as well as seven chemicals restricted." Patel called it a historic success that would greatly benefit the FBI and its partners in combating the fentanyl crisis.