China Cracks Down on Fentanyl Precursor Traffickers

China has launched a significant operation aimed at halting the trafficking of fentanyl precursor chemicals, leading to the arrest of seven people and the imposition of criminal measures on 12 others, according to state media reports on Thursday.

The crackdown, taking place in the central province of Hubei, has led to the investigation of 22 criminal cases. It involves the entire supply chain, from chemical production to storage and export, and follows a directive from China's public security ministry.

This move comes as the U.S., under President Trump, had applied pressure on China to act more vigorously against the trade. The recent arrests were a topic during recent trade discussions with the U.S., aimed at improving cooperation ahead of a postponed summit in Beijing due to geopolitical tensions elsewhere.