U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Chicago seized 71 shipments of counterfeit human growth hormones, steroids, and precursor chemicals during a targeted operation from March 16 to 22, 2025. The crackdown highlights rising precursor chemical smuggling via mail and air cargo, with fiscal 2025 seizures already surpassing the previous year's total. Overseas chemical exporters should note heightened enforcement at major U.S. ports of entry.
Operation scope and seizures
CBP officers at five ports of entry and two international airports—including Chicago, JFK, Los Angeles, Memphis, Louisville, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati—focused on mail, express consignment, and air cargo. They seized 67 shipments of human growth hormones and steroids, 3 shipments of precursor chemicals, and 1 shipment of 4-Butanediol. Most shipments originated from Hong Kong and were destined for various U.S. cities.
Smuggling method: master carton scheme
Many shipments used a master carton smuggling scheme, where a single large shipment contains multiple smaller, preaddressed parcels that are unmanifested or mis-manifested. These parcels are later distributed via domestic carriers. This method complicates detection and increases risks for legitimate chemical traders.
Rising precursor chemical seizures
CBP reported a sharp increase in precursor chemical seizures in fiscal 2025: 151 seizures from October to December 2024 alone, compared to 132 seizures in all of fiscal 2024 (October 2023–September 2024). This trend signals stricter enforcement and higher scrutiny for chemical imports, especially those with dual-use potential.
What buyers should watch
Importers of fine chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, and controlled precursors should review their supply chain documentation and ensure compliance with U.S. customs regulations. Shipments from high-risk origins like Hong Kong may face additional inspection. Using proper Harmonized Tariff Schedule codes and accurate manifests is critical to avoid delays or seizures.
Compliance and logistics signals
CBP Chicago Field Office Director LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke emphasized the agency's vigilance: "Bad shippers are persistent in their attempts to smuggle dangerous goods into the United States, however, through our hard work and vigilance we will continue to intercept these illicit substances." Chemical traders should expect continued enforcement at major air cargo hubs and mail facilities.
Source: Read the original report | Published: April 10, 2025