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Myanmar's Opium Production Soars Amid Ongoing Conflict

12/3/2025

29 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Myanmar has become the leading illicit opium source, with cultivation at 53,100 hectares, up 17% from 2024.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime attributes the surge to ongoing conflict and hardship.
Poppy cultivation expanded in Eastern Shan state by 32% and Chin state by 26%, with Sagaing Region reporting the first time.
UNODC warns the trend could affect neighboring countries amid Myanmar's political turmoil and civil war.

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Story summary

Myanmar has become the leading illicit opium source, with cultivation at 53,100 hectares, up 17% from 2024.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime attributes the surge to ongoing conflict and hardship.
Poppy cultivation expanded in Eastern Shan state by 32% and Chin state by 26%, with Sagaing Region reporting the first time.
UNODC warns the trend could affect neighboring countries amid Myanmar's political turmoil and civil war.