Emergency in Myanmar and Thailand
VIENNA, 1 April 2025 - The International Narcotics Control Board is deeply saddened by the loss of life and extensive destruction caused by the earthquakes that struck Myanmar and Thailand last Friday. The Board and its secretariat extend their deepest condolences to the people of Myanmar and Thailand at this difficult time.
The dire humanitarian needs of the communities in the affected regions require urgent action to ensure that shipments of medications, including medicines containing internationally controlled narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, reach those in need.
The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) reminds all Governments that in acute emergencies it is possible to utilize simplified control procedures for the export, transportation and provision of medicinal products containing controlled substances. Competent national authorities may permit the export of medicines containing narcotic drugs and/or psychotropic substances to the affected areas in the absence of the corresponding import authorizations and/or estimates. Urgent deliveries do not need to be included in the estimates of the receiving country.
Authorities may find further information on the subject in the Guidelines for the International Provision of Controlled Medicines for Emergency Medical Care, and Lessons from countries and humanitarian aid organizations in facilitating the Timely Supply of Controlled Substances during Emergency Situations, available on the INCB website.
The Board and its secretariat stand ready to provide further information and guidance to Governments to facilitate the licit movement of internationally controlled substances during this emergency.
Source: UN News
See: E/INCB/PSY/C.L.10/2025 MYA/THA [ English ] [ Français ] [ Español ]