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The Sinaloa Cartel has apparently banned the trafficking, sale or production of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that has become a lucrative business for the cartel. This ban was announced through “narco-messages” signed by the Chapitos cartel, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel led by the sons of Mexican drug kingpin Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has sanctioned members of the cartel and associated entities for their involvement in trafficking drugs, including fentanyl, into the United States. Experts believe that the ban on fentanyl is an attempt to alleviate pressure from U.S. law enforcement and reduce the accessibility of the drug, as well as an effort to improve the cartel’s public image. Additionally, they believe that competition from independent fentanyl manufacturers has driven prices down and affected the cartel’s profits, prompting the ban. However, some fear that this ban might lead to internal divisions within the cartel, potentially resulting in violence and further conflict. While some doubt the sincerity of the ban, the cartel commander claims that they have ceased fentanyl production, though cocaine production continues. The cartel appears to be weakened from a production standpoint, but it seems as though sales of crystal and fentanyl may continue. Despite the bans and sanctions, the overall extent of the cartel’s activities and the potential effects of the fentanyl ban remain uncertain.

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