China reinforces strict control over fentanyl-like drug exports

China's top drug regulator said on Wednesday that the nation has never exported fentanyl-like drugs to North America and has exercised the strictest control to root out illegal flows.

Last year, the nation produced 100 kilograms of fentanyl-related bulk drug substance, which were mainly used for domestic medical purposes and export.

Throughout 2024, China exported 12.3 kgs of fentanyl-related drugs, with the majority exported to countries such as South Korea, Vietnam and the Philippines, a spokesperson of the National Medical Products Administration said in a statement released on its official website.

The administration reiterated that as of now, China has never exported any fentanyl-like drugs to North America.

China has approved four types of fentanyl-like drugs for market use. Three drugmakers are now authorized to produce related active pharmaceutical ingredients, while five companies are approved to produce pharmaceutical formulations, said the administration.

It added that it has implemented rigorous control over the production, sale and export of fentanyl-like medicines.

The export of fentanyl-related medications is subject to permit regulation. The administration verifies and obtains confirmation of legality from authorities of the importing country for each shipment before an export permit is issued.

"So far, no illegal production or transaction of fentanyl-like drugs by (domestic) pharmaceutical companies has been found, nor has any evidence been discovered of fentanyl-like drugs flowing from (domestic) pharmaceutical companies into illegal channels," it said.

The administration added that it will continue to strengthen the supervision and management of fentanyl-like drug production and sales, strictly regulate export approvals and ensure medical demands are met while preventing illegal distribution and misuse.