NCJ Number
203745
Date Published
November 2003
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This document discusses drug trafficking through Mexico.
Abstract
All major drugs of abuse in the United States are either produced in, or are transited through, Mexico. An estimated 70 percent of all cocaine originating from South America destined for the United States transits the Mexico-Central America corridor. Mexico is the number one foreign supplier of marijuana to the United States. It is a major supplier and producer of methamphetamine and heroin. Mexico is also a transit country for MDMA and there have been indications that MDMA production has been initiated in Mexico. Mexico faces an assortment of drug-related problems, ranging from production and transshipment of illicit drugs to corruption, violence, and increased internal drug abuse. Powerful and well-organized Mexican organizations control drug production and trafficking in and through Mexico, as well as the laundering of drug proceeds. These organizations have made an effort to corrupt and intimidate Mexican law enforcement and public officials. The geographic proximity of Mexico to the United States and the voluminous cross-border traffic between the countries provide many opportunities for drug smugglers to deliver their illicit products to United States markets. Mexico is the United States’ second largest trading partner. The Mexican Government has achieved tangible victories against drug trafficking organizations since Vicente Fox-Quesada assumed the presidency in December 2000. President Fox initiated a national assault against drug trafficking and organized crime, and developed the 2001-2006 National Drug Control Plan. Mexico considers the trafficking of drugs to be a national security issue. Mexican authorities have recently arrested key members of the major cartels. Information sharing between the United States and Mexican governments has dramatically increased since 2000, facilitating the apprehension of several drug trafficking figures. But the drug trafficking organizations that control the production and shipment of drugs, related money laundering, and criminal activities remain powerful. These groups have abundant financial resources and are adept at corrupting or intimidating public officials. These organizations also pose a serious threat to the United States because of their control of drug distribution networks throughout much of the United States.