Canadian Cannabis Smuggling to Europe Surges Amid Oversupply
Canadian cannabis smuggling to Europe has surged, with Rotterdam seizing over 53,000 kilos this year, highlighting a trend fueled by Canada's oversupply
Key Points
- 1Rotterdam customs seized over 53,000 kilos of Canadian cannabis this year
- 2The 'Canadian route' has become a notable smuggling trend
- 3Antwerp also reported a significant increase in cannabis seizures
- 4Canada's legal cannabis oversupply fuels smuggling to Europe
- 5Cannabis smuggling offers high profits with lower risks compared to cocaine
The smuggling of Canadian cannabis into Europe has seen a significant increase, with Rotterdam's port experiencing a sharp rise in seizures this year, according to DutchNews. Customs officials in Rotterdam have intercepted over 53,000 kilos of cannabis from Canada so far this year, marking a fivefold increase from the previous year and a staggering 50-fold increase from 2023
The trend began to gain momentum last July when more than 1,300 kilos of cannabis were discovered hidden in shipping containers from Canada. This route, known as the 'Canadian route,' has been identified as a clear pattern by Dutch customs, police, and prosecutors. Antwerp is experiencing a similar surge, with nearly 20,000 kilos seized this year compared to just 336 kilos in 2023
The legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada in 2018 has led to an oversupply, contributing to this illegal trade. Canada's legal cannabis industry, valued at approximately €3 billion annually, produces significantly more than it can sell domestically. Despite export bans, surplus stock sometimes finds its way to Europe, where it sells for up to €2,800 per kilo in the Netherlands and even higher in the UK and Scandinavia. This lucrative market offers profits akin to cocaine trafficking but with lighter penalties