The study is a report conducted in the framework of the Central Asian Drug Action Programme (CADAP). The study analyses the trafficking and consumption of methamphetamine in Central Asia. Traditionally situated on the Northern route of opioid trafficking from neighbouring Afghanistan to Russia and Europe, Central Asia has witnessed an increase in the spread of synthetic drugs in recent years, including methamphetamine, which are new to the region.
The study examines changes in the production, trade, local distribution, and consumption of methamphetamine in Central Asia. Conducted between March and July 2025, the study is based on official statistics, media reports, and qualitative interviews with three groups of respondents: public health experts, law enforcement experts, and drug users with experience in the use of methamphetamine or other stimulants. A total of 53 interviews were conducted in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan and analyzed using thematic analysis.
The spread of methamphetamine has increased in Central Asia but remains below the level of other stimulants such as mephedrone and alpha-PVP. Distribution takes place through trafficking from Afghanistan, Russia, and China as well as production in illegal laboratories in Central Asia, with regional differences and local hotspots. Methamphetamine is produced both synthetically and from the endemic ephedra plant. Local distribution is organized through online messaging services, without contact between supplier and customer. Drug users report polydrug use and difficulty distinguishing between different substances.
Drug use patterns in Central Asia have shifted from opioids to synthetic drugs. Methamphetamine use is linked to other substances, specifically synthetic cathinones (mephedrone, alpha-PVP). Despite changing drug use patterns, the region lacks treatment and harm reduction programs designed for methamphetamine and other synthetic drug users.
