Should Canada Tighten Controls on Fentanyl Precursor Chemicals and Pill Presses?
Official title: Consultation: Proposed Regulatory Amendments for Precursor Chemicals and Designated Devices
Why This Matters
The opioid crisis has touched communities across Canada. Fentanyl and other synthetic drugs are often made using legally available chemicals and equipment. Tighter controls could make it harder for illegal drug makers to operate—potentially saving lives.
What Could Change
New chemicals could be added to the controlled precursor list, making them harder to buy without a license. Pill presses and encapsulators may face stricter registration requirements. Border agents and police would get new tools to seize suspicious equipment and chemicals.
Key Issues
- Which additional chemicals should be controlled as precursors?
- What new controls are needed for pill presses and encapsulators?
- How can regulations better support law enforcement efforts?
How to Participate
- Review the Notice of Intent published in the Canada Gazette for background on the proposed changes.
- Comments could be submitted by email to csd.regulatory.policy-politique.reglementaire.dsc@hc-sc.gc.ca during the consultation period.
What Happened
The consultation ran from June 28 to August 12, 2025. Health Canada engaged with licensed and registered dealers of precursors, law enforcement, pharmacy regulatory authorities and associations, and interested members of the public. No outcome report has been published yet.