Synthetic Drugs and NPS Threat Highlighted at BRICS Anti‑Drug Meeting

The two‑day anti‑drug summit in Guwahati brought the evolving menace of synthetic drugs and new psycho‑active substances (NPS) to the forefront of the BRICS agenda. Officials from Brazil, China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia and the United Arab Emirates exchanged assessments of how traffickers are diversifying their product lines with laboratory‑produced opioids, stimulants and hallucinogens.

Members expressed alarm at the rapid diffusion of NPS through online marketplaces, often disguised as benign chemicals. The misuse of industrial precursors, combined with the anonymity offered by the dark web, is enabling criminal networks to manufacture potent substances at scale.

The Guwahati Declaration calls for enhanced cooperation in monitoring chemical imports, sharing forensic data, and deploying digital tracking tools to trace the flow of precursors. Participants urged the adoption of unified laboratory standards to expedite identification of novel compounds.

A special focus was placed on protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children and adolescents, from exposure to these high‑risk substances. Delegates advocated for community‑based education campaigns, evidence‑driven demand‑reduction programmes and robust rehabilitation services.

India’s NCB presented a three‑year strategic plan (2026‑2029) that incorporates advanced analytics, real‑time data sharing and a network‑centric approach to dismantle entire supply chains. The plan also outlines steps to strengthen border controls and enhance cooperation with customs and maritime agencies.

The summit concluded with an agreement to establish a BRICS virtual working group that will coordinate joint research, develop shared training modules, and ensure continuous dialogue on emerging drug trends.