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EU Warns That Drug Market Is Becoming More Dangerous
The European Union Drug Agency stated in its annual report that drug markets have become more complex, unpredictable, and dangerous. The report highlighted new synthetic opioids, rising overdose deaths, and the proliferation of new psychoactive substances in the market.
The European Union Drug Agency issued a warning in its annual report that drug markets are becoming increasingly complex, unpredictable, and dangerous. The agency emphasized that especially new synthetic opioids and the growing variety of drug types pose serious health risks.
The agency's assessment is based on data from the EU's 27 member states as well as Turkey and Norway. The report noted that the drug market is not only expanding but also becoming more fragmented and harder to monitor.
Rising Death Risk from Synthetic Opioids
EUDA Executive Director Lorraine Nolan stated that new synthetic opioids are extremely potent. Nolan explained that even very small amounts of these substances can correspond to thousands of lethal doses.
She noted that the margin between use and overdose has therefore narrowed significantly, and some substances can enter the market without users noticing. She warned that this situation could lead to serious consequences, especially in high-risk consumption cases.
According to the agency's estimates, more than 7,600 people in the EU died from overdoses in 2024. The report also noted that opioids remain the leading cause of drug-related deaths, especially when used in combination with other substances.
Rapid Increase in New Substances
The report drew attention to the more frequent appearance of new psychoactive substances. It was reported that 50 new substances were reported for the first time in Europe in 2025, with the agency monitoring approximately 1,050 substances in total.
This situation shows that the substances entering the market are rapidly diversifying, making it difficult for authorities to track new components. The agency pointed out that synthetic products, in particular, increase health risks.
Cannabis Remains the Most Common Illegal Drug
According to the report, cannabis continues to be the most widely used illegal drug in Europe. It was reported that 24.9 million adults used cannabis in the past year.
The agency stated that although the market has been established for a long time, it continues to evolve, with an increase in high-potency products and imports from North America. New products infiltrating the illegal market can have stronger effects.
Nolan said that THC levels in some resin types can reach up to 33%. She explained that as THC levels rise, the risk of psychosis with long-term use may also increase.
The growing prevalence of high-potency products, extracts, and edibles also increases health risks. The agency highlighted that some cases are linked to emergency room visits and issued warnings about cannabis adulterated with synthetic cannabinoids.
Cocaine Seizures Decline, Risk Remains
The European agency also reported a decline in cocaine seizures. In 2024, 330 tons of cocaine were seized, which was below the 419 tons recorded the previous year.
However, the increase in the number of seizures raised the possibility that traffickers may be shifting to smaller, more fragmented shipments to avoid detection. Therefore, the decrease in seizures does not indicate a weakening market.
The report stated that cocaine continues to account for about one-third of people seeking drug treatment in Europe. The substance is also taking an increasingly large share of the negative health impacts.
Agency Calls on Countries to Enhance Preparedness and Monitoring
EUDA called on member states to invest in monitoring and preparedness systems in response to rising health and safety risks. The agency advocated for a balanced approach based on public health and human rights that targets not only supply but also demand.
The overall message of the report was that the drug market in Europe is no longer dominated by a single substance; due to synthetic contents, stronger products, and rapidly changing distribution networks, it has entered a more dangerous phase.
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