Photo: Screenshot of the website of China's Ministry of Commerce

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) announced on Monday that it will further tighten export controls on precursor chemicals by adding the US, Mexico, and Canada to the list of specific countries and regions requiring special export licenses for specific precursor chemicals. Thirteen precursor chemicals will now be subject to export restrictions specifically targeting these three countries. 

The new rule, jointly released by the MOFCOM, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Emergency Management, the General Administration of Customs and the National Medical Products Administration, aims to further improve the management of the export of precursor chemicals. It has taken effect on Monday.

The adjustment involves revising the management catalog of precursor chemicals for export to specific countries or regions, as well as the catalog of specific countries or regions -- officially adding the US, Mexico and Canada to the latter.

Furthermore, 13 specific types of precursor chemicals were included in the management catalog, with the new controls explicitly targeting exports to these three North American countries.

According to the announcement, exporters who ship the listed chemicals to the US, Mexico or Canada must apply for and obtain the required export permits under the interim provisions. Exports of those chemicals to other countries and regions are not subject to the permit requirement under this amended regime.

The Office of China National Narcotics Control Commission also on Monday issued a 13-point notice reminding relevant enterprises and individuals to prevent the diversion of drug-making materials, non-listed precursor chemicals, and related equipment.

The notice includes requirements for postal, courier, logistics, international freight forwarding enterprises, and other entities and individuals to prevent illegal activities related to drug-making materials, among others.