In recent years, cases of fentanyl being smuggled into the U.S. through international packages from China have been continuously detected. This situation is exacerbating the drug abuse problem in the U.S. and has emerged as a major issue in U.S.-China diplomatic and trade conflicts.

Cases of Fentanyl Smuggling via International Packages from China

According to reports from U.S. federal investigative agencies, over 80% of the precursor chemicals for fentanyl seized at the U.S. border have been found to originate from China. In particular, in the industrial complex in Wuhan, China, a chemical called '1-boc-4-piperidone' used as a fentanyl raw material is being produced and traded through encrypted Telegram channels.

These precursor chemicals are often disguised as 'industrial solvents' or 'research compounds' and are shipped as international packages, sent to laboratories operated by drug cartels in Mexico for processing into fentanyl. This process can generate millions of dollars in value from a single order and shipment, making it a highly profitable business for drug traffickers.

U.S. Response Measures

In response to this situation, the U.S. government is significantly increasing tariffs on small packages from China. As of May 2, 2025, the tariff rate on small packages valued under $800 coming from mainland China and Hong Kong has been raised to 120%, eliminating previous tax exemptions and aiming to block illegal drug distribution routes.

Additionally, the U.S. is strengthening legal actions against Chinese companies and individuals selling fentanyl raw materials. The U.S. Department of Justice has indicted four Chinese companies and eight individuals for producing and selling fentanyl precursors, as part of a strong response to the serious issue of fentanyl abuse in the U.S.

Fentanyl smuggling through international packages from China is worsening the drug abuse problem in the U.S., and the U.S. government's response is becoming increasingly robust. However, to fundamentally resolve this issue, international cooperation and more thorough monitoring and enforcement against drug smuggling are necessary.