The European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) and Europol have released a comprehensive report titled “EU Drug Market: New psychoactive substances,” which sheds light on the highly dynamic and resilient market for new psychoactive substances (NPS) in Europe. This market is characterised by the rapid turnover of potent, cheap, and widely available substances. Despite a decline in the overall number of NPS appearing for the first time in recent years, the market remains highly active, with hundreds of substances monitored annually.
Key Findings and Statistics
Between 1997 and 2023, EU Member States reported the emergence of over 960 NPS to the EU Early Warning System. By the end of 2023, approximately 1,200 NPS had been identified on global drug markets over the last decade, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The continued emergence of highly potent substances and new threats is highlighted in the report, along with record seizures. In 2022 alone, more than 30.7 tonnes of NPS were seized in Europe. Notably, large seizures of cathinone stimulants and ketamine accounted for most of the quantity confiscated.
Production, Trafficking, and Distribution
The analysis provides an in-depth look at the European market for NPS, covering synthetic cathinones, cannabinoids, opioids, and benzodiazepines. It details the processes, materials, and criminal actors involved in the production, trafficking, distribution, and use of these substances. Digitalisation has significantly facilitated the sale and distribution of NPS, posing substantial regulatory challenges. Online availability necessitates effective measures to monitor and control digital sales channels.
International Supply Chain
New psychoactive substances are predominantly shipped to the EU from outside Europe. While China remains a significant supplier, generic control measures on certain substance groups, such as synthetic cannabinoids and opioids, have led to a shift in NPS production to India, which has emerged as a major source. In Europe, synthetic cathinone production is also noted, particularly bulk quantities of 3-CMC and 4-CMC. The potential production of other substances remains a threat, especially since few precursors of NPS are currently controlled.
Data Sources and Threat Assessment
The findings of the report draw on data from the EMCDDA’s EU Early Warning System, drug monitoring systems, and Europol’s operational information on serious and organised crime. Taking a threat assessment approach, the agencies identify key areas for action at both EU and Member State levels to respond to developments in the NPS market. These actions include strengthening the capacity of national and EU early warning systems, sharing intelligence, boosting international cooperation, investing in capacity-building, monitoring and disrupting online marketplaces, and supporting research into the pharmacology and toxicology of NPS.
Source: EUDA
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