Introduction
This EUDA Precursor Assessment Report examines the evidence on 4’-chloropropiophenone, evaluating its licit use in the EU and the extent of its use in illicit production.
4’-Chloropropiophenone is a chemical precursor used for the production of 4-CMC (Clephedrone or 4-chloromethcathinone) - a synthetic cathinone stimulant drug that has been present in the drug market in the European Union (EU) since at least 2014. 4-CMC has been under international control since 2020. In the period 2014-2023 seizures of 4-CMC in the EU have been close to an average of 300 kilograms per year.
This document was prepared at the request of the European Commission, pursuant to the Regulation (EU) 2023/1322 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2023 on the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA) and repealing Regulation (EC) No 1920/2006(1), particularly the Article 14 (2).
The document available here is a redacted version of the original precursor assessment report. Sections that contain detailed methodology or technical information that could be misused to enable illicit synthesis have been withheld in the interest of public safety.