Summary
Opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan rose by 19% in 2024, according to a UN report, despite the Taliban’s 2022 ban on narcotics production.
The increase follows last year’s sharp 95% drop, although production remains below pre-ban levels. High opium prices—currently around $730 per kilogram—are likely motivating farmers to defy the ban.
The Taliban has sought international aid to help Afghan farmers transition to sustainable, non-illicit livelihoods amid severe economic hardship.
FTFY
Imagine being the UN and still not understanding what happens when you do a prohibition.
Production is still way way down compared to pre prohibition levels.