Why is China dismissing US fentanyl precursor accusations as fake news?

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China Dismisses US Accusations Regarding Fentanyl Precursors as "Fake News"

China has vehemently rejected accusations that it is failing to curb the production and export of fentanyl precursors, labelling such claims as "purely fake news." This response comes in the wake of statements from the US ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, who indicated a lack of progress in Beijing's efforts to shut down black market firms involved in selling the substance. Despite China's 2019 ban on fentanyl exports to the US, experts suggest that the country remains a significant source of precursor chemicals that are subsequently trafficked to Mexico and Central America.
US Ambassador Notes Lack of Progress in Shutting Down Illicit Firms

US Ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, stated that Washington has been "pushing very hard that the government of China use its considerable power to shut down the ability of these black market Chinese firms to sell the fentanyl." However, Burns candidly admitted, "Frankly, we have not seen progress on this issue," highlighting a perceived stagnation in Chinese actions against these illicit operations. This sentiment underscores the US perspective that while formal bans may exist, the underlying black market activities persist.
China Argues Accusations are "Purely Fake News"

Responding directly to the US assertions, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin asserted that the notion of Chinese fentanyl precursors being smuggled to the United States via Mexico is "purely fake news." He further suggested that the US should instead focus its attention inward. Wang recommended that the United States should strengthen its domestic control over prescription drugs, enhance public awareness campaigns about the dangers of drug use, and work on reducing domestic drug demand, rather than engaging in what he described as "smearing other countries and shifting the blame on others."
China Points to Domestic Issues and Past Denials

This is not the first time China has deflected responsibility for the US fentanyl crisis. In the past, Beijing has argued that the United States should examine its own societal problems and the role played by its pharmaceutical companies in the ongoing issue. China maintains that its government has consistently enforced strict measures against drug-related crimes. Beijing has also accused Washington of actively undermining bilateral cooperation on drug control efforts, suggesting a breakdown in collaborative approaches to the problem.

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Why is China dismissing US fentanyl precursor accusations as fake news?

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