Drug trafficking is the illegal trade of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin and others. It can occur at all stages of the drug supply chain, from cultivation and production to transportation to distribution and marketing. This criminal enterprise is typically run by organised crime groups, which make large profits based on the prices of illicit drugs in developed markets, compared to their relatively low production costs. The profits from drug trafficking can be used to fund other illegal activities, including money laundering and financing terrorism.
Cultivation and production of illegal drugs can take place virtually anywhere, from wilderness areas to farms and plantations, and from backyard gardens to homes. Precursor elements of these drugs can also be produced in labs hidden inside abandoned buildings in major urban districts or rural mobile home parks. Most illegal drug production takes place in developing nations with looser regulations and weaker law enforcement capability.
The transport of drug shipments into the United States often takes place on commercial maritime vessels, private vehicles, mail and package delivery services, and couriers. In some cases, bulk quantities of illicit drugs are commingled with legitimate cargo in shipping containers that are only lightly inspected by customs and other agents.
Convictions for drug trafficking and distribution carry significant prison sentences. Fines are also common and can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars in severe instances, especially when a case involves an interstate or international shipment. Convictions for drug-related crimes can also jeopardize professional licenses, making it difficult to find employment. A conviction can also impose a negative social stigma, which can exacerbate existing problems within families.