INCB international conference on public-private partnerships to address illicit drug manufacture

Voluntary cooperation arrangements can provide win-win opportunities for both the public and the private sectors.

VIENNA, 13 December 2024 - At the INCB international conference "Engaging the private sector to address illicit drug manufacture - Know your industries", participants shared voluntary industry cooperation models to prevent diversion of chemicals and equipment into illicit drug manufacture and to address the proliferation of the illicit use of non-scheduled chemicals and designer precursors. The conference, which took place in Vienna on 12 and 13 December, was attended by over 70 representatives from nearly 30 countries, including 13 industry associations, and 4 international and regional organizations.

Mapping of chemical industries vulnerable to exploitation by drug traffickers

During the conference, five countries shared their experiences with the mapping initiatives being carried out with INCB guidance and based on the INCB publication "Global Review of Categories of Industries Involved in the Manufacture, Trade and Distribution of Chemicals Used in the Illicit Manufacture of Drugs".

The mapping of the different categories of industries at the national level is aimed at gaining an understanding of the range of industries, especially industries that are not yet regulated and that might - often unknowingly - be targeted by drug traffickers. It is a useful step for Governments in establishing or enhancing cooperation with relevant private sector entities.

National practices

During the conference, 13 Governments spoke about their national strategies, complementing the national practices and case studies contained in the INCB publication "National practices related to public-private partnerships (PPP) in the area of drug precursors and non-scheduled chemicals".

While public-private partnerships need to be tailored in each Member State taking the political, legal and cultural contexts into consideration, learning from existing approaches in other countries can be beneficial.

The industry association perspective

During the conference, 11 industry associations, including international, regional and national associations, shared their perspectives. They highlighted the importance of establishing mutual trust between the private and public sectors as well as challenges related to non-scheduled chemicals.

Related resources

  

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