Saturday, March 29, 2025
New Delhi, September 18, 2025 – In a move that could further strain bilateral relations, the United States has cancelled the visas of several Indian business executives and corporate leaders, citing their alleged involvement in trafficking fentanyl precursors, a banned synthetic drug, into the American market.
The announcement was made by the US Embassy in New Delhi on Thursday evening, just hours after President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to countries accused of enabling large-scale drug production and trafficking. India was among the 23 nations flagged for close monitoring.
According to the embassy, the decision is part of Washington’s broader strategy to protect Americans from the growing threat of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, which has been linked to a surge in overdose deaths across the US. “As a result of this action, these individuals and their immediate family members may no longer be eligible to travel to the United States,” the embassy said in an official release.
Executives associated with companies known to be involved in trafficking fentanyl precursors will also be flagged in future visa applications, embassy officials confirmed. While announcing the cancellations, the mission thanked the Government of India for cooperating in efforts to curb the illegal drug trade, even as it stressed that individuals and organizations engaged in such activities would face consequences, including denial of entry into the US.
Chargé d’Affaires Jorgan Andrews emphasized, “Those involved in the illicit production and trafficking of narcotics, including their families, will face consequences, which may include denial of entry into the United States.”
Earlier this year, Washington identified both China and India as primary sources of illicit fentanyl precursor chemicals and pill-making equipment. In March, three employees of an India-based chemical manufacturing company were indicted by a federal court in Washington, D.C., on charges of illegally importing precursor substances used in fentanyl production.
The move comes at a sensitive time, as India and the US remain locked in tense negotiations over tariffs and Russian oil imports. Analysts suggest the visa cancellations could escalate diplomatic friction, adding another layer of complexity to an already strained partnership.
