Methamphetamine trafficking surges from ‘Golden Triangle’ region:
UN Office on Drugs and Crime says ‘explosive growth’ in synthetic drug trade led to record ...
aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/29/methamphetamine-trafficking-surges-from-golden-triangle-region
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Methamphetamine Surge in Asia’s Golden Triangle RegionA record 236 tons of methamphetamine were seized in East and Southeast Asia in 2024, a 24% rise from 2023.
Key FactsMay 29, 2025 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: aljazeera.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: aljazeera.com
- The Golden Triangle region spanning Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand is experiencing rapid growth in methamphetamine production and trafficking.
- Thailand intercepted 130 tons last year, the highest ever, while trafficking from Myanmar's Shan State is expanding into Laos and Cambodia.
- Myanmar's ongoing civil war since 2021 has facilitated drug flows extending into South Asia, particularly Northeast India.
- Older drug users are increasing in some countries, whereas prevention efforts may be reducing methamphetamine use among younger populations.
The 236 tons represent only the amount seized; much more methamphetamine is actually reaching the market.— Benedikt Hofmann, the acting regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific at UNODC, said in a statement.
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Key FactsMyanmar Conflict Fuels Southeast Asia’s Meth Crisis
Jul 18, 2025 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: channelnewsasia.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: channelnewsasia.com
- The armed conflict in Myanmar has driven exponential growth in methamphetamine production in Shan State.
- Located in the Golden Triangle, Shan State is the world's most geographically concentrated meth manufacturing area.
- Criminal groups employ advanced technology and encrypted communication to traffic meth via land and maritime routes.
- ASEAN and neighboring countries are increasing cooperation, but lasting resolution depends on peace among Myanmar’s factions.
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Jun 26, 2025 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: channelnewsasia.com
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: channelnewsasia.com
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