U.S. tariff threats targeting Chinese goods risk jeopardizing crucial anti-drug collaboration between the two nations, experts warn. 🇨🇳🇺🇸 The recent accusations by U.S. leaders about China’s role in the fentanyl crisis have sparked heated debate—let’s break it down.
What’s the story? This week, former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed a 10% tariff hike on Chinese imports, claiming China hasn’t done enough to curb fentanyl exports. But critics argue this narrative overlooks China’s concrete actions. 🛑
China’s anti-fentanyl playbook: Since 2019, China became the first country to classify all fentanyl-related substances as controlled drugs. Translation: Illegal production or trafficking = harsh penalties. 💥 New laws in 2024 further tightened oversight of key chemical precursors used to make the drug.
\"China has zero tolerance for illicit fentanyl activities,\" state media emphasized, noting domestic abuse rates remain low due to strict controls. The country also shares intelligence globally to tackle the crisis. 🌍
Why tariffs backfire: Slapping tariffs as a \"punishment\" could strain diplomatic channels needed for cross-border law enforcement. Analysts stress cooperation, not threats, is key to curbing drug flows. 🤝
Stay tuned as trade tensions and counternarcotics efforts collide—this story’s far from over.
