China’s full-category control of fentanyl-related substances marks a major step in global drug regulation. Wu Tingfang, head of the Precursor and New Psychoactive Substance Control Division at the Ministry of Public Security, shared the update ahead of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Since China implemented whole-category control over fentanyl-related substances, no other country has reported seizures of these drugs originating from China. This reflects China’s effective regulation and enforcement efforts.
Recently, China also added all nitazenes—a class of synthetic opioids—to its controlled drug list. Alongside them, 12 other new psychoactive substances were included. This regulation will soon take effect and further tighten control over dangerous drugs.
China began regulating all fentanyl-related substances in 2019. Although there was no large-scale domestic abuse, the country acted preemptively. In 2021, China expanded its policy to cover the entire category of synthetic cannabis.
These actions made China the first country in the world to enforce full-category control over fentanyl, synthetic cannabis, and nitazenes. Wu stated that adding nitazenes will yield strong results, similar to earlier regulations on fentanyl and synthetic cannabinoids.
The country has also cracked down on the illegal processing and trafficking of synthetic cannabis. As a result, there has been a significant drop in abuse, arrests, seizures, and the number of users.
Statistics show a consistent decline in drug users. By the end of 2024, the number fell by 16.7 percent from the previous year. Drug users now make up only 0.054 percent of China’s population, according to the Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission.
China’s drug abuse patterns have also shifted. Use of traditional drugs like opioids and methamphetamine has decreased. Meanwhile, abuse of unregulated substances and new psychoactive drugs has increased.
As a signatory of the United Nations’ drug control conventions, China strictly upholds its international responsibilities. Wu noted that drug issues have worsened globally. Many countries now face widespread abuse of new psychoactive substances, which has led to deaths and social problems.
In this context, China’s full-category control of fentanyl, synthetic cannabis, and nitazenes is vital. It helps reduce harm and safeguard public health. Wu emphasized that this also reflects China’s commitment to global drug governance and international stability.
This year, China’s immigration authorities cracked 205 drug-related cases at entry points. They arrested 262 suspects and seized 2.42 metric tons of drugs. The government plans to keep targeting drug crimes while closely studying trafficking methods.
Under the full control policy, no person or group may produce, sell, transport, or use fentanyl-related substances, synthetic cannabis, or nitazenes unless legally approved. Wu explained that the government balanced strict control with efforts to protect lawful use in medicine, research, and industry.
The Ministry of Public Security works closely with the National Health Commission and Medical Products Administration. Together, they manage exceptions and regularly review controlled substances for potential removal when justified.
