As China Looks for Way Out of U.S. Trade Deadlock, Fentanyl Could Be Key

The trade war between China and the U.S. has reignited efforts to combat fentanyl production, as Beijing considers resuming trade-based measures against the drug amid ongoing tensions. In 2019, after President Trump accused China of inadequate collaboration on fentanyl control, Beijing banned all fentanyl variants in an effort to counter U.S. accusations and strengthen trade negotiations. The move led to praise for Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who was credited with a humanitarian gesture. Now, amid the current trade conflict, China is exploring whether to offer further assistance in fighting fentanyl as part of its strategy to maintain influence over U.S. affairs.