Illicit fentanyl is mainly produced, trafficked, and smuggled into the United States by Mexican cartels. Two major players—the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel—dominate the fentanyl supply chain from Mexico. These groups are designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, Specially Designated Global Terrorists, and Drug Trafficking Organizations. They operate clandestine labs in Mexico, where they synthesize fentanyl using precursor chemicals and manufacturing equipment that are primarily sourced from the People’s Republic of China (PRC)

Let’s interdict the Fentanyl that is killing approximately 200 Americans a day!

• International Cooperation – A lot of precursor chemicals for fentanyl come from overseas, particularly from China and India. Strengthening diplomatic pressure and cooperation to track and regulate these supplies is crucial.
• Border Security & Technology – Most fentanyl comes through legal ports of entry hidden in vehicles and cargo. Advanced scanning tech, K-9 units, and better training for border agents can help catch more of it.
• Postal and Shipping Controls – Since fentanyl can be shipped in small packages, stronger inspection protocols for international mail and courier services are key.
• Financial Tracking – Following the money trails of cartels and traffickers can help dismantle networks.
• Demand Reduction – Prevention, education, and treatment programs are essential to reduce the demand for opioids.
• Public Health Response – Access to naloxone, addiction treatment programs, and harm reduction strategies can save lives immediately while interdiction efforts continue.