UNODC report highlights distinct synthetic drug markets in South Asia
Summary
A new UNODC report says synthetic drug markets in South Asia are evolving in different ways, with Nepal facing growing concerns over the diversion and illicit distribution of controlled pharmaceuticals. The report also highlights shared regional challenges, including trafficking routes, precursor monitoring gaps and the need for stronger cooperation.
Key Points
- UNODC’s new report maps synthetic drug trends in Bangladesh, the Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka, showing distinct market patterns across the region.
- In Nepal, controlled pharmaceuticals such as tramadol, tapentadol, benzodiazepines and codeine are being diverted and moved through land, postal, courier and passenger channels.
- Authorities in Kathmandu recovered 564,100 tramadol tablets in an operation in February 2025.
- UNODC launched three practical tools in Kathmandu to help national authorities and law-enforcement agencies improve investigations, forensic detection and asset recovery.
