G7 intensifies fight against drug trafficking by strengthening maritime and port security

Leaders from the G7 nations, along with Brazil and South Korea, have committed to a more robust global effort against drug trafficking. Meeting in Évian, France, they adopted a joint declaration that specifically targets the strengthening of maritime and port security, identifying these as critical vulnerabilities exploited by criminal organizations.

The declaration acknowledges that sea transport is the principal route for the worldwide movement of drugs and precursor chemicals. "We commit to reinforcing our efforts to intensify maritime cooperation to intercept a greater number of illicit shipments and strengthen the resilience of maritime ports and global supply chains against drug and precursor chemical trafficking," the statement reads. This initiative aims to build upon previous progress and enhance interdiction capabilities.

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We recognize that maritime transport is the main route of worldwide drug trafficking and precursor chemicals. On the basis of the progress made during the Canadian presidency, we commit to reinforcing our efforts to intensify maritime cooperation to intercept a greater number of illicit shipments and strengthen the resilience of maritime ports and global supply chains against drug and precursor chemical trafficking.

A central outcome of the meeting is the creation of a G7+ Network of Ports to Combat Drug Trafficking. This network is designed to improve coordination, facilitate the exchange of information, and promote the adoption of best practices among major seaports in member countries and their partners. The G7+ initiative will also explore potential joint site visits by port authorities and security agencies, adhering to international regulations such as the International Maritime Organization's Code for the Protection of Ships and of Port Facilities.

Furthermore, the leaders urged relevant ministers to implement this network by November 2026. The declaration also addresses the infiltration of legitimate public and private institutions by criminal networks, recognizing this as a growing threat and a core component of the economic models used by transnational organized crime groups. The G7 nations pledge to collaborate with international and regional partners to bolster collective approaches to drug consumption, production, and trafficking, including the development of early warning systems.

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This G7+ initiative will seek to improve coordination, information exchange, and the implementation of best practices, including through possible joint site visits to port authorities and security agencies, based on international regulations such as the International Maritime Organization's Code for the Protection of Ships and of Port Facilities and G7 initiatives.