Focus - Pakistan becomes major drug hub as Afghanistan exports crisis
France 24
by Shahzaib WAHLAHFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Pakistan has emerged as a significant hub for drug production and consumption, marking a shift from its previous role as merely a transit route. This transformation began after the Taliban retook power in Afghanistan in 2021, leading to a ban on poppy cultivation there. As a result, illegal farming of opium precursor plants shifted across the border into Pakistan's Balochistan province, which has since become a major center for drug production. Simultaneously, Afghan trafficking networks have shifted focus toward synthetic drugs like methamphetamine, which are now being heavily trafficked into Pakistan.
The situation in Pakistan is exacerbated by the fact that its drug economy is growing rapidly, with synthetic drugs like methamphetamine flooding the market. This has had devastating consequences for Pakistani society, as millions of people now struggle with addiction. The health and social impacts of this crisis are severe, with increasing rates of overdose deaths and a strain on healthcare systems.
The shift in Afghanistan's drug trade dynamics has also reshaped Pakistan's role in the region. While the country was once primarily seen as a transit point for drugs en route to other markets, it is now a major producer and consumer. This change reflects broader geopolitical shifts in the region and highlights how instability in Afghanistan has had far-reaching consequences for neighboring countries.
The growing drug crisis in Pakistan underscores the interconnectedness of global drug markets and the challenges faced by governments in addressing such issues. It also raises concerns about regional security, as drug trafficking networks often overlap with organized crime and terrorism. For readers interested in global affairs and public health, this development highlights the importance of understanding how political instability can reshape transnational criminal activities.
The situation in Pakistan serves as a reminder of the complex and evolving nature of the global drug trade. As Afghanistan's role has shifted, neighboring countries like Pakistan are increasingly becoming key players in both production and consumption. This not only poses significant challenges for local governments but also has implications for international efforts to combat drug trafficking and addiction worldwide.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/19/2026