The number of Nepalese arrested for drug offenses overseas, most commonly in Hong Kong, increased dramatically in recent years indicating both a rise in trafficking and more effective law enforcement efforts. Recently, an increase in the abuse of licit codeine-based cough syrups and synthetic morphine has been observed. Country Actions Against Drugs in 1995 Policy Initiatives. Cultivation and Production. Opium poppies are not cultivated in commercial quantities in Nepal.
Detection is complicated by small plantings amid licit crops.
Authorities believe all heroin seized in Nepal originates elsewhere. The extent of cannabis cultivation is believed to be substantial. Narcotics control security at Kathmandu's international airport is inadequate, facilitating the transit of drugs. Use of Nepalese as couriers will likely continue due to widespread poverty. These trafficking efforts appear to be independent of major international trafficking organizations.