Cocaine Production Hits Record Highs in 2023
Cocaine production, seizures, and use reached unprecedented levels in 2023, as detailed in a recent global drug report released by the UNODC. The findings, published on Thursday, indicate that the cocaine market is rapidly growing worldwide.
The UNODC highlighted that cocaine is the fastest-expanding illegal drug market, with production soaring to 3,708 tonnes this year—a staggering 340% increase from 2022. Once mainly confined to Latin America, the drug’s influence has begun to extend into Western Europe, particularly as criminal organizations in the Western Balkans step up their activities.
This significant growth can largely be traced back to an expansion of coca bush cultivation in Colombia, the leading cocaine producer globally. According to updated data, the size of coca farming areas in Colombia increased by 50% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Coca leaves, which are essential for cocaine production, have seen a rise in high-yield regions.
The report stated, “The concentrations of coca leaf production have surged in Colombia’s most productive areas.” In contrast, Bolivia experienced a slight decrease in coca leaf cultivation, while Peru showed minimal changes.
Notably, global cocaine seizures also hit record levels in 2023, increasing across all regions. Between 2019 and 2023, there was a 68% uptick in cocaine confiscated worldwide.
Furthermore, the UNODC estimates that the number of global cocaine users has grown from 17 million in 2013 to 25 million this year, particularly among individuals aged 15 to 64.
Ghada Waly, the executive director of UNODC, remarked that organized drug trafficking groups are adapting effectively, capitalizing on global crises to target vulnerable populations. She emphasized the need for preventive measures to tackle the root causes of drug trafficking at every stage of the supply chain.
Waly continued, stressing the importance of utilizing technology, enhancing cross-border collaboration, offering alternative livelihoods, and implementing legal actions against key players in these networks. A combined and strategic approach could potentially dismantle criminal organizations, boost global security, and protect communities.
Beyond cocaine, the synthetic drug market is also thriving, with amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), including methamphetamines and fentanyl, experiencing significant growth. ATS-related seizures reached new heights in 2023, making up nearly half of all global synthetic drug seizures, followed closely by fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.
The UNODC reported that the fall of the Syrian regime has brought uncertainty to the Captagon trade, revealing major production sites in the country. The discovery could affect the supply of vital medicines; however, recent seizure data shows that the trade continues primarily toward nations in the Arabian Peninsula.
In Colombia, authorities have long fought to eliminate cocaine production dominated by groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the National Liberation Army (ELN). Under President Gustavo Petro, a left-leaning figure, cocaine production has surged dramatically as part of his “Total Peace” initiative.
Petro has controversially argued for the legalization of cocaine, suggesting it could be treated similarly to alcohol. However, he is currently facing scrutiny, as allegations of his own drug use have emerged, triggering investigations from congressional committees.
Former Foreign Minister Alvaro Leyva accused Petro of substance abuse, citing incidents that he claims show the president is struggling with addiction. Leyva’s public letters noted particularly concerning behavior during official trips, but Petro has denied these allegations, suggesting a conspiracy against him.
Adding to the controversy, a report indicated that Petro’s policies may have contributed to the increased cocaine production, with excess coca paste going unsold in the country.
In March, the Colombian government even called for the UN to remove coca leaves from the list of harmful substances, arguing their potential for industrial uses.
