The U.S. intelligence community has identified India and China as state actors in the supply of precursor chemicals for illicit fentanyl production. The Annual Threat Assessment reveals that fentanyl has caused over 52,000 deaths in a year. This declaration coincides with intensified tariff policies by President Trump aimed at combating opioid trafficking.
The United States has classified India, alongside China, as a ‘state actor’ involved in facilitating the supply of precursor chemicals essential for illicit fentanyl production by organized crime groups. According to the Annual Threat Assessment (ATA) released by the U.S. intelligence community, fentanyl, a highly dangerous synthetic opioid, has resulted in over 52,000 American fatalities in the twelve months ending October 2024.
The report notes, “These groups [transnational criminal organisations or TCOs] are often enabled, both directly and indirectly, by state actors, such as China and India, as sources of precursors and equipment for drug traffickers,” according to the U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. Furthermore, while China remains the leading source of illicit fentanyl precursors and related equipment, India is noted as a significant contributor.
This report marks a significant shift as India is positioned equally with China regarding its role in supplying chemicals utilized by drug cartels for opioid production. The previous year’s assessment merely categorized India as one among several nations from which Mexican drug organizations procured chemicals, naming China as the predominant supplier.
This development coincides with President Donald Trump’s intensified focus on combating the opioid crisis, including prioritizing it within U.S. foreign policy. Trump reiterated his commitment to eradicating the fentanyl epidemic in America, stating, “we have ended the fentanyl epidemic in America once and for all.” Earlier this month, he enacted a 10% tariff on China due to inadequate measures against fentanyl trafficking, along with 25% duties on Canada and Mexico.
In addition to these tariffs, President Trump has suggested imposing reciprocal duties on various nations as part of his impending “Liberation Day” tariffs, scheduled to take effect on April 2. Concurrently, India is engaged in negotiations with the United States to expedite a free trade agreement that may mitigate some of these tariffs.
The U.S. has identified India and China as pivotal in supplying chemicals for illicit fentanyl production, marking a significant policy shift in recognizing India’s involvement. As President Trump prioritizes combating this epidemic, the imposition of tariffs on countries failing to address trafficking issues underscores the urgency of the matter. India, seeking to establish a free trade deal, stands at a crossroads of trade negotiations amidst heightened scrutiny.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
