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Fentanyl Seizures at US-Mexico Border Plummet by Over Half

The Trump administration credits its tightened border policies with a 54% annual drop in fentanyl seizures

Overview

  • Seizures at ports of entry fell 30% year-over-year and declined 54% in March 2025 compared to March 2024
  • Monthly fentanyl confiscations averaged 1,700 pounds in 2024 but dropped to 746 pounds so far in 2025
  • Reporting outlets describe the decline as puzzling and note it began before the newest border measures took effect
  • The DEA and analysts point to Sinaloa cartel infighting and shortages of precursor chemicals as additional causes
  • Border apprehensions also fell 95% from April 2024 to April 2025, raising questions about shifts in trafficking tactics