US authorities have escalated their crackdown on fentanyl supply chains, with charges against two China-based firms, Shandong Believe Chemical Company and Shandandong Ranhang Biotechnology, along with six Chinese nationals. The companies allegedly supplied precursor chemicals and mixing agents intended for fentanyl production destined for the US. The terrorism-related charges extend liability beyond cartel members to upstream suppliers in the global supply chain. The indictment also details how payments for these materials moved through digital financial channels, which can make it difficult for authorities to trace flows in real time. The charges come amid increasing tensions between Washington and Beijing over the fentanyl supply chain, which has led to tariffs and diplomatic tensions.