New data from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has revealed troubling trends in the growing illicit marijuana market. During fiscal year 2024, CBP seized 174,991 pounds of marijuana, a sharp increase compared to 149,582 pounds in FY 2023 and 154,797 pounds in FY 2022. Notably, the number of seizure events also surged, with 24,072 incidents recorded in FY 2024, up from 18,595 in FY 2023 and 15,020 in FY 2022, underscoring a consistent rise in trafficking activity.

These figures are raising red flags as increased seizures are often considered an indicator of a growing underground market. This trend raises serious questions about the effectiveness of marijuana legalisation in reducing black market operations, contrary to repeated claims by its advocates.

Interestingly, while marijuana seizures have surged, the data show a decline in the amount of cocaine and fentanyl seized during the same period, highlighting a unique escalation in marijuana trafficking.

The findings suggest a misalignment between the promises made by proponents of legalisation and the reality outlined in federal seizure statistics. Such trends point to the broader societal impact of leniency towards substances, urging communities to reflect on the long-term consequences of normalised drug use.

Source: Mailchi