Fentanyl: a growing threat in the hands of Mexican cartels
Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, has become a gold mine for Mexican drug cartels. Fifty times more powerful than heroin, it is exported en masse to the United States, causing an unprecedented addiction crisis. Unlike opium, fentanyl allows cartels to avoid growing plantations and relying on rural communities for their production. Lightweight, discreet and easily transportable, it often comes in the form of pills that can be easily camouflaged, thus increasing the number of overdose deaths. This destructive substance is spreading rapidly across the American continent, causing havoc in its path.
Mexican drug trafficking in full change
The report by Laurence Cuvillier and Matthieu Comin takes us to the heart of this new reality of constantly evolving Mexican drug trafficking. Cartels see fentanyl as an unparalleled opportunity to generate astronomical profits. Indeed, its production is less expensive and less risky than that of opium, which requires a complex cultivation process and heavier logistics. Additionally, fentanyl is extremely lucrative on the American black market, where its demand continues to grow.
A threat to public health
But this new situation is also a major threat to public health. Fentanyl is so powerful that even a small dose can lead to a fatal overdose. The alarming figures for fentanyl-related overdose deaths in the United States demonstrate the seriousness of the situation. American authorities are trying to combat this scourge by strengthening border controls and prosecuting traffickers, but Mexican cartels are always one step ahead, finding new strategies to escape radar.
A crisis that requires an international response
Faced with this growing crisis, it is essential that the international community mobilizes to find effective solutions. The fight against fentanyl trafficking must be a top priority, because not only are lives at stake, but also the social and economic fabric of the affected regions. Close cooperation between the United States, Mexico and other relevant countries is essential to dismantle trafficking networks and end this threat.
In conclusion, fentanyl has become the new El Dorado of the Mexican cartels, fueling a devastating addiction crisis in the United States. This synthetic drug, easy to produce and transport, has allowed traffickers to change their business model and generate colossal profits. However, this financial prosperity is accompanied by a serious public health crisis. A coordinated international response is needed to combat this scourge and protect the lives at stake.