China reacted on Thursday to the US imposing sanctions on four Chinese pharmaceutical firms that produce painkillers and one person for the alleged production of anabolic steroids and the sale of fentanyl ingredients.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a news conference that his government adopts a “zero-tolerance” approach on the issue of narcotics, with strict measures to regulate anesthetics, psychotropics, and precursor chemicals.

"China’s efforts and achievements are witnessed by the international community. China categorically opposes the erroneous acts of the US," he said. "We urge the US to respect facts and look for causes of the abuse of fentanyl from within. It should view China’s efforts in an objective and fair manner, instead of diverting attention by blaming others.” 

US President Joe Biden signed an executive order Wednesday imposing sanctions on the four pharma companies, and Chuen Fat Yip, who he described as "one of the largest, if not the largest, producer of anabolic steroids in the world.”/aa