The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reports a 20% decrease in opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan in 2025, falling to 10,200 hectares from 12,800 hectares in 2024. Production declined even more sharply by 32%, reaching 296 tons.
Income from opium sales plunged 48%, from $260 million to $134 million. Many farmers turned to cereal crops, but severe drought left over 40% of farmland unused, intensifying economic pressures.
Population Returns and Resource Competition
The return of around four million Afghans from abroad increased competition for limited jobs and resources, potentially making opium cultivation more tempting despite risks.
Despite the price of dry opium dropping 27% to $570 per kilogram, it remains high compared to pre-ban levels. The decreased cultivation and lower prices suggest shifting trafficking and production patterns.
Rise of Synthetic Drugs
Synthetic drug production, especially methamphetamine, increased significantly with seizures rising about 50% by late 2024. Synthetic drugs are favored by criminal groups for easier production and resilience to climate impacts.
Need for Coordinated International Efforts
Experts stress long-term investments, international cooperation, farmer support for alternative livelihoods, eradication efforts, and demand reduction to effectively address evolving drug markets in Afghanistan and beyond.
