Illegal synthetic drugs, like fentanyl, have a devastating impact on public health and safety in Canada. Action is required to control new precursor chemicals under the CDSA to place strong controls on these chemicals.
That's why, today, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced permanent controls for five fentanyl precursor chemicals under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). These actions further strengthen Canada's robust controls of precursor chemicals and are part of Canada's efforts to detect and disrupt the illegal drug trade under Canada's Border Plan.
These amendments ensure that Canadian law enforcement and border officers have the tools to stop the illegal importation and distribution of five fentanyl precursors: phenethyl bromide, phenethyl chloride, phenethyl iodide, propionic anhydride, and benzyl chloride. They also ensure there is no break in the temporary controls for phenethyl bromide, propionic anhydride, and benzyl chloride that were put in place on February 27, 2025, under a Ministerial Order.
Anyone caught conducting unauthorized activities with these precursor chemicals, such as illegal importation or distribution, will be subject to criminal charges.
While these chemicals can be used in illegal fentanyl production, many precursor chemicals also have legitimate uses. Once these scheduling changes come into force on April 12, 2026, anyone wanting to legally conduct activities with these chemicals will need to apply to Health Canada for a licence or registration and will need to comply with regulatory requirements set out in the Precursor Control Regulations.
