Trump and Petro debate strategies for eliminating Colombia’s cocaine crops

All about the numbers

The Petro administration has intensified efforts against cocaine trafficking, achieving significant drug busts, including nearly 14 tonnes seized in November, while Gloria Miranda leads the Directorate for the Substitution of Illicit Crops. Critics argue that despite these efforts, coca cultivation increased by 10% in 2023, and cocaine production rose by 53%, reaching about 2,600 tonnes. Petro has challenged UN figures, citing methodological concerns, although analysts highlight persistent high demand for cocaine globally. As coca cultivation trends upward, Colombia is likely to remain a leading producer due to geographical limitations on coca growth.