US Revokes Visas of Indian Executives Over Fentanyl Precursor Trafficking

New Delhi, September 18 – The United States Embassy in New Delhi announced on Thursday that it has revoked and denied visas to a number of Indian business executives and corporate leaders alleged to be involved in trafficking fentanyl precursors.

The decision comes just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to countries accused of rampant drug trafficking and narcotics production. India was among 23 nations identified by Washington as being under close monitoring for their role in the global drug trade.

In a statement, the embassy said the action was part of a broader U.S. strategy to curb the flow of dangerous synthetic narcotics into the country.

“As a result of this decision, these individuals and close family members may be ineligible for travel to the United States,” the embassy said.

Executives from companies flagged for involvement in trafficking fentanyl precursors will also be scrutinized during future visa applications, it added.

Chargé d’affaires Jorgan Andrews underscored Washington’s position:

“Individuals and organizations involved in the illegal production and trafficking of drugs to the United States, along with their families, will face consequences that may include being denied access to the United States.”

The embassy also thanked the Indian government for its cooperation in tackling narcotics trafficking.

Background

Earlier this year, the U.S. identified China and India as primary sources of illicit fentanyl precursor chemicals and pill-pressing equipment. In March, three employees of an Indian chemical manufacturer were charged in a Washington, D.C. federal court for allegedly smuggling fentanyl precursor chemicals into the U.S.

The latest move follows Trump’s announcement naming 23 nations, including India, as “major drug transit or illicit drug-producing countries.” The list also includes Pakistan, China, Afghanistan, Mexico, Colombia, and several others across Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia.

“Countries where these drugs originate and transit must fulfil their obligations and shut off these supplies — or face serious consequences,” Trump warned.

The embassy’s announcement signals an escalation in Washington’s pressure campaign, highlighting how narcotics control has become a key point of contention in U.S. foreign relations.