Customs and Border Protection Agents (CBP) are using AI to track precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production in Mexico.

The use of AI is a response to the increasing number of Americans dying from synthetic opioid overdoses, as traditional methods of enforcement have been ineffective.

CBP is working with startup Altana, which operates a global supply chain platform, to map how fentanyl ingredients are assembled and shipped.

Altana's AI-powered knowledge graph provides insights into the complex relationships between entities involved in the fentanyl supply chain.

Since using the AI system, CBP has successfully seized large amounts of fentanyl precursor chemicals and made numerous arrests.

The Department of Homeland Security also employs AI-powered systems to combat illegal fentanyl trade.

AI has proven vital in this fight, enabling faster analysis and detection of changes in trade patterns and participating parties.

Traditional drug trafficking strategies have proven ineffective against fentanyl due to the organized nature of the trade and the legality of precursor chemicals, but AI is helping to overcome these challenges.