Key facts
- Hong Kong customs seized 49% more drugs in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year.
- The total value of seized drugs increased by 55% to HK$1.1 billion (US$141 million) in the first half of 2024.
Hong Kong customs reported a nearly 50% increase in drug seizures during the first half of the year compared to the same period in 2023. The value of seized drugs also saw a significant rise, indicating a growing trend in illicit trafficking.

The rise in drug seizures in Hong Kong suggests an increase in illicit trafficking activities, potentially impacting regional stability and posing risks to financial systems if linked to money laundering or other criminal enterprises.
Hong Kong customs reported a significant increase in drug seizures during the first half of 2024, with a 49% rise in the quantity of drugs confiscated compared to the same period in 2023. The total value of these seizures also saw a substantial jump of 55%, reaching HK$1.1 billion (US$141 million). The number of drug trafficking cases also increased by 10% to 1,095.
Authorities noted specific surges in the seizure of certain illicit substances. Ketamine seizures increased by 1.5 times, while cocaine seizures rose by 3.4 times. Methamphetamine seizures were up by 1.2 times, and cannabis seizures increased by 1.3 times.
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