Sevil Atasoy, president of the INCB, noted that thanks to the global accounting system implemented by the organization, the entry of legally produced substances into illegal channels has been minimized. For example, in 2025, an attempt to export 3 tons of fentanyl precursor, which could have been used to produce 3.3 tons of dangerous drugs, was prevented thanks to the PEN Online platform.
Modern data exchange methods help countries respond promptly to illegal activities and prevent fraud in the international trade of controlled substances. Cooperation with the private sector, including the chemical industry and logistics companies, is also of great importance, as indicated in the study.
The INCB report highlights the issue of access to pain relief medications. Despite sufficient supplies on the global market, low- and middle-income countries continue to face difficulties in obtaining morphine-containing medications. The organization strongly urges states to eliminate barriers preventing patients from receiving the necessary assistance.
The text also reflects important regional trends: an increase in drug consumption in Africa, a decrease in deaths from synthetic substances in North America, the expansion of the cocaine market in South America, record levels of methamphetamine in East Asia, and an increase in trafficking through Oceania.
According to the INCB, the volume of illegal cocaine trade in Western and Central Europe has significantly increased in recent years, as evidenced by both the availability of this drug and the increase in seizure volumes. The production of synthetic drugs in Europe continues to grow, and new psychoactive substances pose a serious threat.
Canada, Mexico, and the United States have intensified their efforts to combat drug-related crime. Although Canada has seen a reduction in overdose cases, the authors of the report believe it is too early to draw conclusions about the sustainability of this trend. The issue of non-medical opioid use continues to raise serious concerns among public health professionals.
