The supply of illicit drugs in France in 2023

Maritime transport and the adaptability of traffickers: the case of Le Havre in 2023

While the port of Le Havre is one of the main entry points for cocaine into Europe, enhanced port security measures implemented in 2023 led to a reduction in trafficking activity and volumes seized there. This contributed to a fall in cocaine seizures across France in 2023, amounting to 23.2 tonnes, down 16% on 2022.

Cannabis supply

In 2023, there was a slight decrease in cannabis seizures in France to 124.7 tonnes, representing a 3% decline compared to the previous year. Average THC content in cannabis resin has risen by 82% in eleven years, from 15.9% in 2012 to 29% in 2023. Typical prices for both herbal cannabis and cannabis resin have remained stable over the past three years.

Cocaine supply

In 2023, cocaine seizures in France totalled 23.2 tonnes, representing a 16% decrease compared to 2022. The typical retail price for a gram of cocaine was €66 in 2023. However, taking account of the significant increase in cocaine purity over the past decade and its stable retail price, the price of “pure” cocaine has fallen in France.

Heroin supply

In 2023, heroin seizures in France saw a slight decrease to 1.1 tonnes, representing a 21% drop from the previous year. However, this fall should be viewed in the context of a general trend of high seizure volumes. The average purity of heroin in 2023 was 16%, which is lower than in previous years. In 2023, the typical street price of a gram of heroin continued to fall to around €28.

Record seizures of MDMA/ecstasy

In 2023, seizures of MDMA/ecstasy rose significantly, representing an increase of 164% on 2022. It is important to note, however, that only 30% of these products were intended for sale within France, while 70% were in transit, destined mainly for Tunisia and the United Kingdom. In 2023, the average active ingredient content of MDMA/ecstasy tablets was 30%. These levels have remained relatively stable over the past decade.