The United States is increasing tariffs on Chinese goods, with US Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent using the fentanyl issue to pressure China. Chinese observers view this as a tactic to deflect blame for the US's own drug control failures. In an interview, Bessent predicted China would be the primary loser in the trade war and urged China to take action to stop the flow of fentanyl into the US.
Chinese officials and academics have responded, criticizing the US approach. Li Haidong, a professor at China Foreign Affairs University, stated that the US is unfairly shifting responsibility for its domestic drug problems onto China. China has implemented strict measures to control fentanyl-related substances, including rigorous supervision, prevention of abuse, and crackdowns on smuggling and trafficking.
China has taken significant steps to address the issue, including fully controlling fentanyl-related substances since 2019, making it a global leader in this area. China has also cooperated with other countries, including the US, to address problems related to fentanyl and its precursors. The US Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) recently released a report on fentanyl, which China views as an attempt to blame China and Mexico for the American domestic crisis.
The Chinese Embassy to the US has previously clarified that the responsibility for ensuring imported goods are not used for illegal purposes lies with the importing company and country, not the exporter. Li Haidong believes the US is attempting to undermine China's efforts and achievements in this area and justify its negative portrayal of China.
A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson has stated that the US is spreading false information and scapegoating China, using the fentanyl issue as a pretext for raising tariffs. China opposes the US's pressure tactics and is ready for practical cooperation based on equality and mutual respect. However, China urges the US to respect facts and make the right choices.
8 Comments
roneyepsl
Tariffs are never the answer. This is just a political move, completely disregarding China's efforts.
KittyKat
They're using the fentanyl issue as a pretext to justify their trade war. Disgusting.
Loubianka
Seriously, the US trying to blame China for its own fentanyl crisis? Talk about deflection!
Katchuka
The US is grasping at straws. China has been proactively tackling fentanyl. Where's their proof?
Leonardo
The US should fix its own border security and addiction problems which has been failing in a long time.
Cerebro
Even though China says they've handled it, this will make sure China doesn't continue the problem!
Donatello
China is controlling their use of substances. The US is just looking for something to pin on them. Disgusting!
Noir Black
Tariffs are a necessary tool to pressure China to stop the flow of these deadly substances.