China tightens control over precursor chemical exports

VTV.vn - China has just tightened control over the export of precursor chemicals - compounds that can be used to produce drugs.

Cargo port in Shandong, China. (Photo: THX/TTXVN)

Accordingly, from November 10, the US, Canada and Mexico were added to the list of countries that must apply for special licenses when importing 13 specific chemicals from China.

The new regulation, jointly issued by the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Public Security and the General Administration of Customs of China, requires exporting enterprises to submit documents proving the legal purpose of using these chemicals.

Precursor chemicals are compounds needed in many areas of the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, but are often used illegally to produce controlled substances such as narcotics.

Chinese officials said the move was aimed at preventing cross-border drug production and trafficking, and affirmed that they would continue to strengthen international cooperation, including with the US, in drug prevention work.

According to China's regulatory regulations, when exporting precursor chemicals to specific countries, exporters are required to provide original documents from the competent authorities of the importing country certifying the legal use of these chemicals, or guarantee documents from the importer confirming the legal use. These documents must be reviewed by the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Commerce of China.

In April last year, Chinese authorities added 24 substances to the list of precursor chemicals for export to specific countries. The adjustment took effect on May 1 of the same year. The previous list of countries requiring special licenses to import precursor chemicals included Myanmar, Laos and Afghanistan.

On November 10, the Office of the National Narcotics Control Commission of China also issued a notice reminding exporters to closely monitor international conventions and the laws of importing countries, especially high-risk destinations such as the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Exporters are encouraged to ensure that foreign customers complete import procedures, in accordance with local regulations, to avoid legal risks associated with unlisted precursor chemicals and equipment, which are legally used and capable of producing controlled substances.

Source: https://vtv.vn/trung-quoc-that-chat-kiem-soat-xuat-khau-hoa-chat-tien-chat-10025111119261068.htm