Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

India Bans Opioid Exports Amid West Africa Crisis

2/25/2025

48 8

Summary

Story summary

India has taken a bold step by banning the manufacture and export of the addictive opioids tapentadol and carisoprodol, spurred by a BBC investigation uncovering their illegal trade in West Africa. The Mumbai-based Aveo Pharmaceuticals, implicated in this crisis, has had its stock seized, and legal action is underway to combat the growing public health threat in Nigeria and Ghana.

History

Historical Context

India's ban on tapentadol and carisoprodol follows a troubling trend in West Africa, where opioid abuse has surged. Similar to the 2014 West Africa Commission on Drugs' call for decriminalization and treatment over punishment, India's action aims to address public health crises linked to opioid trafficking. Past efforts to regulate opioids globally highlight the ongoing struggle to balance medical use and abuse prevention.

1 of 2

Story summary

India has taken a bold step by banning the manufacture and export of the addictive opioids tapentadol and carisoprodol, spurred by a BBC investigation uncovering their illegal trade in West Africa. The Mumbai-based Aveo Pharmaceuticals, implicated in this crisis, has had its stock seized, and legal action is underway to combat the growing public health threat in Nigeria and Ghana.

1 / 2