China has taken a significant step in combating drug abuse by adding nitazenes and 12 other psychoactive substances to its list of controlled drugs. This move aims to address the emergence of new synthetic opioids that pose a serious threat to public health.
Nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids, have been linked to severe respiratory depression and hundreds of overdose deaths worldwide in recent years. By scheduling these substances, China’s authorities are intensifying efforts to prevent their spread and misuse.
At a press conference in Beijing, Wei Xiaojun, head of the Ministry of Public Security’s narcotics control bureau, stated that China’s drug situation is generally stable and controllable. However, he warned of the rapid evolution of new drugs and the increasing complexity of drug-related crimes, which present serious challenges for law enforcement.
Wei highlighted China’s active participation in international anti-drug cooperation. This includes the inauguration of the China-U.S. Counternarcotics Working Group in 2024, aimed at helping the United States address its fentanyl crisis.
Despite collaborative efforts, obstacles remain. The so-called “fentanyl tariffs” imposed by the previous U.S. administration have hindered joint mechanisms. Beijing has expressed firm opposition to linking trade issues with drug control cooperation.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry emphasized, “We have made it clear many times that the fentanyl issue is the United States’ problem, not China’s, and the responsibility lies with the U.S.”
In 2024, approximately 80,000 people in the United States died from drug overdoses, with over half related to fentanyl substances. China’s proactive measures, including the addition of fentanyl-related substances to its controlled list in 2019, demonstrate its commitment to international drug control.
Earlier this year, China released a white paper outlining its efforts to fulfill international obligations and collaborate with other countries in combating new drug challenges. The addition of nitazenes to the controlled list reinforces China’s dedication to safeguarding public health both domestically and globally.
As new synthetic drugs continue to emerge, China’s actions highlight the importance of international cooperation in addressing drug abuse and protecting communities worldwide.
