US Blacklists Dozen Chinese and Mexican Companies for Selling Counterfeit Pills Equipment to Fuel Opioid Epidemic - News

Share ☞ Copy Link: πŸ”— https://newsblist.blogspot.com/2023/05/us-blacklists-dozen-chinese-and-mexican.html
Published (Updated) on Wednesday, May 31, 2023

UNITED STATES — The US has imposed sanctions on more than a dozen Chinese and Mexican companies that are responsible for shipping or selling equipment that manufactures counterfeit pills, in order to combat the import of illegal fentanyl that contributes to America's deadly opioid epidemic. CNN reports.

The US Treasury Department said that seven entities and six people from China, as well as one entity and three people from Mexico, were involved in the sale of pill press machines and other equipment used to produce counterfeit trade markings on illicitly produced pills, which were frequently laced with fentanyl and often destined for the US market.

The sanctioned entities will have their assets blocked, and American nationals are prohibited from trading with them. The move comes as part of the US’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal drugs, and fentanyl in particular, which reportedly contributed to nearly 70,000 overdoses and fatalities in 2021 alone.

The Chinese Embassy in the US has reacted, arguing that the US was the real cause of its drug issues. "The US sanctions against Chinese companies and citizens will add more obstacles to China-US counter-narcotics co-operation," it said, underscoring the countries' ties.

Illegal drugs and opioid use have been a major problem in the United States for several decades. Many individuals turn to illicit drugs and banned substances to escape from their daily lives or cope with emotional issues.

In recent years, the opioid epidemic has become a growing concern as many individuals have become addicted to prescription pain pills and the likes, leading to a rise in overdose deaths. Opioids are highly addictive because they activate the brain's reward system and can create a feeling of euphoria, making it difficult for users to quit.

Illicit drugs and opioids have caused a significant societal impact, leading to increased drug-related crimes, rising healthcare costs, and countless lives lost.

The U.S. government and healthcare professionals have implemented various measures, such as public education campaigns, drug rehab programs, and stricter prescription guidelines, to combat the epidemic. However, it remains a challenging issue that requires continued attention and support.

News ▶ Agencies and Media

Share Your Thoughts