Cocaine production in Colombia surged by 53% in 2023, reaching a record high of 2,600 tons, according to a report by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The area under coca cultivation also increased by 10%, reaching 253,000 hectares. This rapid escalation in production is most pronounced in regions with high coca yields, including Cauca, Nariño, Putumayo, and Norte de Santander.

Candice Welsch, UNODC’s regional director, highlighted that one hectare of coca now produces twice the amount of cocaine compared to two years ago. Colombian President Gustavo Petro acknowledged that the traditional war on drugs has been ineffective and proposed government purchases of coca harvests as part of a new approach to combating the issue. Petro stressed the need for innovative strategies to address the escalating crisis.