The global illicit drug market is becoming increasingly complex, adaptable and innovative. The process of globalisation, whereby entities become interconnected through communication, trade and transport, is also reflected in globally interconnected drug production and trafficking networks. Innovations across the criminal supply chain also continue to present transformational opportunities for criminal networks in key areas such as criminal logistics and cooperation. These include innovations in the production of synthetic, semi-synthetic and plant-based drugs, and the use of novel precursors and chemicals to produce and chemically mask illicit substances. In addition, innovations in the use of technology, such as communication and information technologies and end-to-end encryption, provide further opportunities for criminal networks while posing a complex challenge for law enforcement. The use of key tools, such as firearms, encrypted communication solutions and fraudulent documents, is also a major enabler of criminal activities contributing to the increasing threat to society. Taken together, developments across these areas have created an environment in which criminal networks are highly resilient. As seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, criminal networks are capable of rapidly adapting and taking advantage of different circumstances.

See also webpage, EU Drug Market: Drivers and facilitators — Technology and innovation