According to observers, the fact that the availability of drugs remains high despite police operations, seizures, and dismantling of organized networks is a clear indicator of the resilience of the drug market. A detailed report from the Ministry of Interior on the resale prices of narcotics in 2023 demonstrates this, showing that retail prices have not increased as expected, given the significant seizures made in 2022. Prices for cannabis resin, herbal cannabis, and cocaine have remained stable, with only a slight increase seen in the price of cocaine.
The resale prices for drugs such as cannabis and cocaine have remained unchanged between 2022 and 2023, with a gram of resin priced at 8 euros and a gram of herbal cannabis at 10 euros, both stable for the past five years. The price of cocaine has seen a minimal increase, from 65 to 66 euros per gram. Interestingly, the wholesale price of cocaine has actually been on a downward trend since 2014, with some regions like Guadeloupe offering prices as low as 19 euros per gram, due to its proximity to cocaine-producing countries. Additionally, the price of heroin has slightly decreased, despite a significant drop in production from the world’s leading producer, Afghanistan.
The document also sheds light on the significant profits generated by drug trafficking. For example, cannabis resin purchased in Morocco for 645 euros per kilo is sold for nearly five times the price wholesale once it reaches France, with a retail price of 8 euros per gram, resulting in a final markup of 12.2. The situation is even more pronounced for cocaine, with low production costs in Latin America leading to a purchase price of around 1,000 euros per kilo. This is due to increased cultivation in countries such as Venezuela, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, along with modernized production and processing techniques.
Despite efforts to combat drug trafficking and reduce supply, the availability of drugs remains high and prices have not significantly increased. The report highlights the adaptability of drug markets to disruptions in supply chains, as evidenced by the quick transition in production from Afghanistan to Myanmar following the collapse of opium production in Afghanistan. This ability to quickly adapt and continue operations ensures that drug traffickers can maintain profits and supply in the face of various challenges.
In conclusion, the report provides a concerning insight into the state of the drug market, showing that despite law enforcement efforts, drug availability remains high and prices have not risen as expected. The profitability of drug trafficking is illustrated through the significant markups on wholesale prices, indicating the lucrative nature of the trade. The resilience of drug markets and the ability of traffickers to adapt to changes in supply demonstrate the challenges faced in combating the illicit drug trade. Policymakers and law enforcement agencies must continue to address these issues through a comprehensive approach that addresses both supply and demand factors.
