Fight Against Fentanyl, Methamphetamine Intensifies Via Reforms

López Obrador's new initiative to curb the production and consumption of synthetic drugs such as fentanyl and methamphetamine was approved by the Chamber of Deputies. Now, the reform will pass to the Senate for the final discussion and vote.

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Today, with 296 votes in favor and 139 against, the Chamber of Deputies approved the first reform to prevent, detect and sanction the spread or use of chemical precursors, chemical products and machines to produce synthetic drugs. It also allows Mexico’s Navy to enforce the law, while the Ministries of National Defense, Security and Citizen Protection, Environment and Natural Resources and the National Guard may support to prevent, detect and avoid the illicit production of synthetic drugs.

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Deputy Health Minister Hugo López-Gatell celebrated the approval of the reforms and said they will help the government better address the drug crisis. "There are several changes that will facilitate drug control. For that reason, we thank the deputies who voted in favor. This reform will allow us to have, among other things, a wider watchlist of chemical precursors.”

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The opposition parties PAN, Citizen’s Movement and PRD criticized that the reform was approved hurriedly, arguing it was voted through without broad knowledge or a comprehensive strategy. In addition, the opposition argued the reform grants powers that exceed the Navy’s grasp.

What Is Happening With Synthetic Drugs in Mexico?

Fentanyl has rapidly become one of the most critical healthcare issues for Mexico and the US and has been a key discussion topic for both countries. According to the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), fentanyl is a synthetic opioid considered 30 to 50 times stronger than heroin and 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. In 2021, there were approximately 70,000 deaths in the US related to fentanyl. In 2022, fentanyl deaths accounted for 66 percent of drug-related deaths in the US. As the price of fentanyl is at its lowest point, its consumption is increasing in Mexico and the US, according to authorities.

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Recently, Deputy Minister of Health Hugo López-Gatell said that methamphetamine addiction is a major public health issue in Mexico. Methamphetamines are highly addictive synthetic stimulants that affect the brain and other parts of the body. They are like amphetamines, which are used to treat hyperactivity and sleep disorders. Methamphetamines have been Mexico’s top high-impact drug since 2018, surpassing alcohol.

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Behind the issue of addiction lies a social problem of exclusion and marginalization among youth, according to López-Gatell. This problem has created an environment that can easily affect young people and drive them to abuse substances.