Investigations led by Nikkei Asia have uncovered a sophisticated fentanyl trafficking operation rooted in China, which exploited key shipping routes passing through Japan. The network reportedly leveraged Japan’s bustling ports as a covert transit hub to transport fentanyl chemicals undetected to various international destinations. Authorities believe this method was employed to bypass stricter customs scrutiny and capitalize on Japan’s strategic logistic infrastructure. The probe revealed that shipments labeled as benign chemical products were systematically rerouted through these channels, enabling the illicit flow of precursor substances essential for fentanyl production.

Key findings from the investigation include:

  • Use of falsified…