Why it matters: The article highlights the ongoing issue of cocaine trafficking and the increase in production of cocaine worldwide. It also showcases the efforts of law enforcement agencies in different countries to combat this problem.
What they are saying: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) report states that cocaine production has reached record levels, with almost 2,000 tons produced in 2020. The increase in production can be attributed to an expansion in coca bush cultivation and improvements in the process of converting coca bush to cocaine hydrochloride. The report also mentions a rising prevalence of cocaine use globally, with a growth in demand and an increase in the number of users.
The big picture: The surge in cocaine production and consumption has led to an increase in drug trafficking and major busts. The fragmentation of the cocaine trade in Colombia has allowed for the involvement of various criminal groups, including foreign actors from Mexico and the Balkans. The presence of these groups has incentivized coca bush cultivation and facilitated the financing of the entire supply chain.
What to watch: It will be important to monitor the efforts of law enforcement agencies in different countries to combat cocaine trafficking. Additionally, addressing the underlying issues such as demand and cultivation of coca bushes will be crucial in tackling the cocaine problem on a global scale.
My take: The rise in cocaine production and trafficking is a concerning issue that requires international cooperation and comprehensive strategies to address. Efforts should focus not only on interdiction and busts but also on reducing demand and disrupting the supply chain. The involvement of foreign criminal groups in Colombia further complicates the situation and underscores the need for a coordinated approach.
