Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 3, 2025 Peace and security
Opium poppy cultivation in Myanmar has reached its highest level in a decade, according to a new report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The study comes at a critical time for the country, which is experiencing protracted conflict and socioeconomic instability.
According to the report, the area under poppy cultivation in Myanmar has increased by 17 percent compared to last year, from 45,200 to 53,100 hectares. Economic factors play a key role. Since 2019, the price of opium at farmers' markets has more than doubled, from $160 to $365 per kilogram. According to the UNODC, rising prices and reduced heroin supplies from Afghanistan are creating incentives for further expansion of production in Myanmar.
Despite the increase in cultivated area, per-hectare yields have declined. This is due to armed clashes and general instability, which hinder farmers from tending their fields and obtaining necessary inputs. Nevertheless, overall opium production remains historically high.
The report also documents the first signs that heroin from Myanmar is beginning to reach markets previously supplied with Afghan opium. Over the past year, there have been multiple cases of heroin seizures from passengers traveling from Southeast Asia to Europe. While these are isolated incidents so far, the changing situation on the black market could spur further expansion of production.
"Myanmar is at a turning point: the increase in cultivation reflects the recovery of the opium economy and points to possible further expansion," said Delphine Shantz, UNOPS representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
She emphasized that unless viable alternatives are created for farmers, the cycle of poverty and dependence on illicit cultivation will only intensify. According to her, what is happening now in Myanmar will impact drug markets not only in the region but far beyond, and requires urgent action.
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