On February 24, 2025, the Ministry of Economic Affairs in Taiwan, China announced proposed amendments to the Categories and Regulations Governing Inspection and Declaration of Industrial Precursor Chemicals, removing 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-propanone from the Class A controlled items.
The revision, based on provisions of the Controlled Drugs Hazard Prevention Act, aims to strengthen management of industrial precursor chemicals and prevent their misuse in drug manufacturing. The ministry explained that 1-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-propanone is chemically identical to 3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl-2-propanone (MDP2P). MDP2P was listed as a Category 4 precursor material for narcotics on July 16, 2024, and further designated as a Category 4 controlled pharmaceutical ingredient on August 2, 2024. These classifications have already subjected the substance to stricter controls to effectively monitor its use and prevent drug proliferation, thereby eliminating the need for continued regulation under industrial precursor chemical controls.
The Categories and Regulations Governing Inspection and Declaration of Industrial Precursor Chemicals has undergone six revisions since its initial release on December 23, 1998, with the latest amendment issued on June 5, 2017.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs stated that public comments or suggestions on the draft amendment may be submitted to the Ministry by April 25, 2025. The revision is expected to enhance chemical management, ensure lawful use, and prevent drug manufacturing and abuse.
