China Keeps Export Permit Rules for Chemicals to Afghanistan, Expands List for North America

China has announced that its existing regulations requiring export permits for 41 chemical substances destined for Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Laos will remain in force. The country has also expanded its export control catalog for precursor chemicals to the United States, Canada, and Mexico, increasing the number of listed chemicals that require export permits from 13 to 16.

The Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of Emergency Management, General Administration of Customs, and National Medical Products Administration jointly announced the adjustment, which took effect upon issuance. This move, made in accordance with interim regulations on the export of precursor chemicals to specific countries and regions, aims to strengthen export controls and prevent these substances from being used in drug production.

Three substances have been added to the export control list for the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Under the updated rules, exporters must obtain permits when shipping any of the 16 listed chemicals, as well as their possible salts, to these three countries. Exports of the listed substances to other countries and regions do not require such permits, according to the statement.