The situation is exacerbated by the Myanmar military's 2021 coup and ongoing violence, reducing their control over territories and diminishing drug enforcement efforts. This has made it easier for drug cartels to operate, with meth now reaching as far as Australia and Saudi Arabia.

The Golden Triangle, comprising parts of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, remains a major hub for illegal drug production. Porous borders with neighboring countries further facilitate the trade.

Methamphetamine, particularly in pill form known as yaba and as crystal meth, is primarily produced in Myanmar's Shan state. Despite record seizures by authorities, the supply continues to grow, contributing to a significant drop in prices.

For instance, the cost of a meth pill in Myanmar has decreased substantially since the military takeover, making drugs more accessible and exacerbating addiction issues.

The meth trade not only fuels the local economy but also supports the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, with various ethnic armed organizations involved in production or trafficking to fund their operations.

Moreover, the rise in drug production has seen an increase in smuggling activities through alternative routes to avoid conflict zones and law enforcement crackdowns in neighboring countries.

Despite efforts by the Myanmar military to curb narcotics, their focus on maintaining power and the lack of cooperation with neighboring countries has hindered effective drug control.

International concerns grow as meth production and trafficking persist, impacting not only local communities but also reaching global markets.