China's status as a major chemical producer and exporter also makes it a target for criminals seeking to illegally procure chemical precursors. The booming economy and monetary flows have so far out-paced regulatory improvements, presenting increased potential for money laundering. The PRC officials now estimate there are 380,000 drug addicts, but many Western observers believe the actual number is much higher. Most registered drug addicts are young people. Drugs used range from opium to refined heroin and synthetic painkillers.
Crimes resulting from drug addiction also are on the rise.
Addiction is highest in Yunnan province, which borders Burma, but is also rising in Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Gansu, Shanxi, and Sichuan provinces. Recreational drug use in prosperous coastal urban areas is a growing problem. The number of AIDS and HIV-positive cases has increased, particularly in Yunnan province. According to official PRC estimates, seventy-five percent of AIDS cases are due to intravenous heroin injection. Country Actions Against Drugs in 1995 Policy Initiatives.