U.S. sanctions Chinese firm for alleged opioid shipments

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Antony J. Blinken | Official Website

U.S. sanctions Chinese firm for alleged opioid shipments

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The United States has imposed sanctions on Guangzhou Tengyue Chemical Co., Ltd., a chemical company based in China, and two of its representatives, Huang Xiaojun and Huang Zhanpeng. The action targets the company's involvement in manufacturing and coordinating shipments of illicit opioids and chemical agents to the United States.

According to U.S. officials, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl have become the leading cause of death among Americans aged 18 to 45. Authorities state that China plays a significant role in this crisis by not only failing to prevent the export of these substances but also by supporting the continued business operations that result in harm to U.S. citizens.

“Overdoses from synthetic opioids like fentanyl is the leading killer of young Americans from 18-45. China plays a central role in this crisis, not merely by failing to stem the ultimate source of many illicit drugs distributed in the United States, but by actively sustaining and expanding the business of poisoning our citizens.”

Officials described today's measure as part of broader efforts by the Trump Administration to address synthetic narcotics through law enforcement and diplomatic channels.

“Today’s action by the Department of Treasury reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to make America safe again by deploying the law enforcement and diplomatic tools necessary to end the deadly scourge of synthetic narcotics and ensure companies like Guangzhou Tengyue and their representatives are held accountable.”

Additional details about these designations can be found in a press release issued by the Department of Treasury.

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