Despite Colombian government efforts against cocaine over the past decade, data show that cocaine production continues to multiply. The UN reported that the country reached 253,000 hectares of coca leaf planted in its territory in 2023, five times more than in 2013. Its cocaine production potential, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), grew 53% between 2022 and 2023 alone. The situation is so critical that Colombia is on alert for the possible loss of its certification by the United States as an ally in the fight against drug trafficking. Exclusion would mean a reduction in economic and military aid and could affect U.S. investment.

In this context, mafias have found fertile ground to satisfy a growing demand: the UNODC noted in its most recent report that, despite the expansion of synthetic drugs, cocaine continues to boom in Europe and has gained presence in Asia, Oceania, and Africa. "As long as this demand persists, European networks will continue to seek alliances with Colombian groups," García added.

Drug trafficking
The Italian mafia’s tentacles in Colombia: Cheaper cocaine and ties with the Gulf Clan

https://english.elpais.com/internat...cocaine-and-ties-with-the-gulf-clan.html