U.S. Sanctions Chinese Chemical Firm Over Fentanyl Shipments

NEW YORK - The United States on Tuesday announced sanctions against Chinese chemical manufacturer Guangzhou Tengyue Chemical Co., Ltd. and two of its representatives, Huang Xiaojun and Huang Zhanpeng, for allegedly producing and coordinating shipments of illicit opioids and chemical agents to the United States.

Officials said the move is part of Washington’s broader effort to combat the deadly fentanyl crisis, which remains the leading cause of death for Americans between the ages of 18 and 45.

“Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are killing more young Americans than any other cause,” the Treasury Department said in a statement. “China plays a central role in this crisis, not only by failing to stem the flow of precursor chemicals, but by allowing companies to expand the business of poisoning our citizens.”

The Treasury said the action reflects the Trump administration’s commitment to strengthen law enforcement and diplomatic measures against synthetic narcotics and to ensure companies and individuals responsible face accountability.