France Says Afghanistan Has Become New Hub For Methamphetamine Production

French officials warn of an increase in the smuggling of methamphetamine produced in Afghanistan and Turkiye.

The French International Security Cooperation Agency says that Afghanistan has become one of the centres for the production of methamphetamines, competing with the countries of Southeast Asia and Central Europe.

According to the French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche, although the consumption of methamphetamine in Europe is relatively low, this very potent synthetic drug is used as a stimulant, especially at parties where people under the influence of drugs indulge in illicit activities.

According to a document from France's International Security Cooperation Agency, which is linked to the country's Interior Ministry, officials have expressed concern about a new wave in Europe and France due to the increase in illegal production of the substance in Turkiye and Afghanistan.

According to the report, Turkish police were able to seize more than 25 tons of methamphetamine in 2024.

Turkiye, which is currently facing the deadly dangers of the drug, has reported that 46% of drug-related deaths are now linked to methamphetamine.

According to a report by France's International Security Cooperation, Afghanistan has also become a major centre for the production of methamphetamines, and the traditional pattern of drug production and distribution has changed.

To combat drug trafficking more effectively, French authorities have recommended that employees at ports and airports, and in particular at customs, receive more training to detect drugs.