The Rise of Captagon Production in Post-Assad Syria
Following the recent collapse of the Assad regime, Syria has emerged as a significant hub for the production and distribution of Captagon, a banned narcotic substance. Reports indicate that large quantities of Captagon pills have been discovered in various locations, including military bases and warehouses, highlighting Syria's role in the global drug trade. The drug, originally developed in Germany for medical purposes, has become a major source of revenue for the country, surpassing all legal exports combined.
Captagon's Impact on the Syrian Economy
The revenues generated from Captagon sales have reportedly supported the Assad government throughout the 13-year civil war, with estimates suggesting that the regime earned approximately $2.4 billion annually from this trade between 2020 and 2022. This income accounted for about a quarter of Syria's gross domestic product. The new authorities have vowed to dismantle the drug trade, yet the findings reveal a deeply entrenched network, with significant quantities of the drug found at key locations such as Mezzeh military airport and in factories linked to the regime's former leaders.
The Global Implications of Syria's Drug Trade
Experts warn that the proliferation of Captagon has contributed to a growing drug epidemic in the Gulf states, raising concerns about regional stability. The drug trade has also been used by the Assad regime as leverage against Arab governments, as they navigate the complexities of diplomatic relations in the aftermath of the regime's fall. As the new authorities take control, the future of Captagon production in Syria remains uncertain, but its impact on both the local and regional landscape is undeniable.
