The new annual report released by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) shows that the global cocaine market continues to break records, becoming the fastest growing illegal drug market in the world. This situation is driven by increased output in Colombia and strong consumption demand in Europe, North America and South America.
According to UNODC, 2023 is the year that marks a new high in the production, confiscation and use of cocaine. Global illegal cocaine output this year is estimated to have increased by about 1/3, reaching more than 3,708 tons. The main reason is the increase in the area of cocaine cultivation - the main raw material for making cocaine - in Colombia, along with updated data showing that the harvest yield in this country is about 50% higher than in 2022.
The number of cocaine users globally continues to increase, reaching 25 million in 2023, compared to 17 million a decade ago. The regions with the highest rates of cocaine use are still North America, Western and Central Europe, along with South America. The UNODC said the conclusion was based on drug use data from the past year and wastewater analysis in the areas.
Not only cocaine, the synthetic drug market is also on the rise. Synthetic drugs are increasingly popular due to low production costs and lower detection. The leading ingredients in this group are amphetamine stimulants such as methamphetamine and amphetamine.
The amount of synthetic drugs seized in 2023 also reached a record high, accounting for nearly half of the total amount of synthetic drugs seized globally. This is followed by synthetic opioids, including fentanyl - an extremely addictive drug.
This alarming situation shows that there is a big challenge in controlling and preventing the spread of illegal drugs globally. UNODC warns of the need for comprehensive and coordinated measures between countries to minimize the negative impacts of addictive substances on public health and social security.
