Cocaine Trafficking on the Rise: Hot Spots and Preventive Measures
Rising cocaine production and shifting trafficking routes pose increasing risks for commercial vessels, emphasizing the need for vigilance, preventive actions, and fair treatment of crews.
Global Cocaine Market Trends in 2023
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports that 2023 could be a record-breaking year for cocaine. Production reached an estimated 3,708 tons, about a third higher than in 2022.
This growth mainly reflects an expansion in illicit coca bush cultivation in Colombia. In contrast, cultivation areas in Bolivia stabilized, while Peru saw a slight decline.
Major Trafficking Flows
- The main cocaine trafficking routes are from Andean countries to North America and Europe.
- Europe receives cocaine directly or via West and Central Africa.
- Seizures and wastewater data reveal that cocaine flows to Europe have surged dramatically compared to North America.
- There is also recent evidence of expanding cocaine trafficking to Asia.
Other Drug Production Trends
Unlike cocaine, Afghan opium and heroin production and trafficking remain at their lowest levels since 2001.
"Most indicators – those for production, seizures and use – point to 2023 being a record-breaking year for the global cocaine market." – UNODC
Summary: Cocaine production and trafficking are sharply increasing worldwide, creating new risks for global shipping and highlighting the need for robust prevention and crew protection measures.
More News
- Warriors 99-94 Cavaliers (Dec 6, 2025) Game Recap
- Nobel Prize banquet chefs and pastry chef 2025
- Spillcontrol – Spill Control
- CHEFS (@chefs_podcast) - Instagram photos and videos
- Golden State Warriors vs Cleveland Cavaliers regular season game: Full injury report, who's out, and more
- Where the Chefs Eat: Skye McAlpine’s Venice
- Spill and pollution response
- Over 4,000 gallons of oil and toxic wastewater spill in San Ardo
- The first week of testimony in Brian Walshe’s murder trial is over. Here are takeaways from Day 5
- Restaurants, hôtels, bars, caves et commerces de … - Paris