explosion of cocaine consumption in France

For years, cocaine was mostly consumed by partygoers in showbiz and privileged circles. Today, it is the most widely used drug in France after cannabis. The market is exploding and exports from Latin America are flooding the ports, such as in Lorient (Morbihan) where 180 kilos were seized on February 15. In 2021, the authorities seized 26.5 tonnes of cocaine, according to an interministerial drug control mission. This figure has doubled in one year.

Almost automatic drug checks

Now affordable, between 50 and 70 euros per gram, it has become easier to take it frequently. “To hold on in my business. Since the restaurant business is very difficult, it’s true that I started to consume it, not just to party”, confides a consumer. On road checks, saliva tests to detect drugs, and in particular cocaine, are almost systematic. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin announced on Sunday February 19 that he wanted to severely punish drivers who test positive for narcotics. Today, a consumer in possession of drugs is liable to one year in prison and a fine of 3,750 euros.