China has expanded its export control catalogue for precursor chemicals to the United States, Canada, and Mexico, raising the number of listed chemicals requiring export permits from 13 to 16, authorities said.

The Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Emergency Management, the General Administration of Customs, and the National Medical Products Administration jointly announced the adjustment, which took effect on the date of release.

The move, made in accordance with interim regulations on the export of precursor chemicals to specific countries and regions, is intended to strengthen export management and prevent such substances from being used in drug production.

Three substances have been added to the export control catalogue for the US, Canada, and Mexico. Under the updated rules, exporters must apply for permits when exporting any of the 16 listed chemicals — as well as their possible salts — to the three countries.

The announcement also maintains permit requirements for exports of 41 listed chemicals to Myanmar, Laos, and Afghanistan. Exports of the listed substances to other countries and regions do not require such permits, according to the announcement.